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May 25, 2011

Family Reunions Love Dublin, Ohio

Posted by irishattitude under Dublin Ohio Parks, Events, Family Fun, Getaways, Insider tips, Irish, Meetings, Ohio travel, Reunions, Special Events, What's New | Tags: , , , , , , |
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Trying to figure out what to do for your family reunion this summer?

The O'Reilly Clan's Reunion

Entertaining the toddlers, pre-teens, adults and everyone in between is no easy task. Common issues arise such as; Who’s bringing the potato salad? Uncle Larry is not going to want to sit in the heat. How long will everyone have to travel?

Here at the Dublin CVB, we believe summer is a time to slow down and have some fun. Check out our Planner Toolkit and see why Dublin is so great to hold a gathering (apart from our immense Irish Attitude) the Bureau’s Free Services help you find the right places to hold your reunion – perhaps one of our 52 accredited parks or our Riverbox/Geocaching adventure will suit you?

The Dublin CVB has about 30 experiences* that groups can enjoy. Our Irish activities bring out the ‘Irish Attitude’ in visitors and our local partner attractions.

The City also has great multi-cultural attractions that we want families to do if a wee bit o’ Ireland isn’t right for them.

The Dublin CVB’s new ‘Around the World in Dublin, Ohio’ experiences offer a behind-the-scenes look, taste, touch and smell of various cultures and regions. Did you miss our ‘Big Group Fun’ blog post?  These custom activities, like the tour of Ohio’s only professional bat maker, also provide new ways for local reunion planners to experience Dublin and show off their hometown to family members. Learn how Dublin locals can Bring an Event Home and Win a Weekend Getaway.

Tour of Phoenix Bat Company

But don’t just take our word for it. Read the story of the O’Reilly Clan featured in the latest issue of Reunions Magazine. They had their first combined reunion in Dublin, Ohio last August. Although they did not take advantage of the tourism programs, they did center their reunion around the Dublin Irish Festival. 

Here’s a clip of what the Rockford, Illinois planner had to say:

Dublin Irish Festival- Gatherings at the Pond


“I wish every family could experience having a reunion in Dublin.” Tim Reilly said. “70 year old men were hugging and kissing me because it was the grandest affair they had ever attended. The atmosphere in Dublin, Ohio is special. We were a part of the whole celebration. Everywhere we went we felt special.”

*Most tourism programs are available exclusively to groups staying at one of Dublin’s 14 hotels.

To learn more contact Allison Potter: apotter@IrishisanAttitude.com
Twitter: @alli_DublinCVB
614-792-7666

 

March 28, 2011

Big Group Fun in Dublin (OH)

Posted by irishattitude under Columbus Zoo, Events, Family Fun, Historic Dublin, Insider tips, Irish, Special Events, What's New | Tags: , , , , |
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Last year, it was the World’s Largest Redhead Gathering in North America (at the Dublin Irish Festival).  In 2007, it was the Guinness World Record for the Largest Irish Jig (10,036 people–also at the Dublin Irish Festival.)  What I’m saying here is … we’re big on big group fun in Dublin, Ohio.

Now, those examples refer to REALLY big groups. But–truth be told–we love to entertain groups of ANY size in Dublin. Year-round.  What does this mean to you? If you are looking for some fun group activities for your next meeting, reunion, Girl’s Night Out or corporate team-building event … we’ve got your back.

What started in 2007 as a way for the Dublin CVB to draw group tours to the city where Irish is an attitude, has bloomed into a palette of 22 Irish experiences and another dozen “Around the World in Dublin Ohio” experiences. Thanks to a handful of inventive and willing local partners, we’ve created immersive activities where groups can take an Irish Dance 101 class, savor Irish Sundaes while touring an ice cream factory, celebrate a Cinco De Mayo-inspired dinner or attend the Mad Hatter’s Tea Party!

The activities include a wide range of price points and levels, based on number of people and length of stay. Groups overnighting at one of Dublin’s 14 hotels can select from among our VIP experiences. Here are a few sample itineraries to whet your appetite:

• Girl’s Day Out: Savor French pastries during Oo la la! Celebrating French Cuisine, before becoming Dublin Damsels on a Quest. Enjoy a Victorian era lunch experience then take in some shop therapy. Pour your own candle during Scents and Sensibility then finish off the day with a private Dinner & Spa Event.

• Around the World in 24-hours (or less): Experience a traditional Japanese Tea Ceremony, then head to the #1 Zoo in the country for a behind-the-scenes look at the Polar Frontier. Traverse to warmer climates during Perfecting a Southern Treat before a Salud Italiano lunch feast. Discover The Ancient Saints of Ireland or Irish Wake traditions during Wake Me When It’s Over. Enjoy Fro Yo: A South Korean Inspired Sweet Treat then finish the day with An All-American Hit: Hot Dogs, Baseball & Apple Pie.

• Teach Me How: Lifelong student? Learn to dance an Irish jig, play the Penny Whistle, tell the difference between chocolates or teas from around the world AND decorate a cupcake!

• I-rish I Was in Dublin (OH): Embark on a Four-Leaf Clover Scavenger Hunt through Historic Dublin while working up an appetite for a Sunny Irish Lunch. Meet a real leprechaun, an 1830s era Irish immigrant, bagpiper or an Irish storyteller. Learn to speak a little Gaelic, then savor an Irish Manor House Meal.

Want to learn more? Visit our Website or contact the Dublin CVB at 800/245-8387.

~Post by Mary

 

January 14, 2011

Surviving Cabin Fever AND Saving $

Posted by irishattitude under Columbus Zoo, Family Fun, Getaways, Insider tips, What's New | Tags: , , , , , , , |
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Among my many resolutions for this year: (1) Spend less. (2) Travel more.

At first glance, those two tasks might seem to cancel out each other. But, you see, I have this addiction. I’m a travel-a-holic. I love to go to new places … whether they are on the other side of the country or the other side of the city. So I’m (working on) becoming a super savvy traveler this year. I’m searching for the best values, insider tips and special offers.  

Working in the travel industry, one thing I’ve learned when planning a trip is—start with your local Convention & Visitors Bureau (CVB). CVBs are made up of locals who are passionate about their destination. We know the best places to eat, visit, stay and see. And we usually have knowledge of some great packages.  Like this one I’m going to share with you today:

The Embassy Suites Columbus Dublin is offering a Cabin Fever Family Fun Package (Feb. 19-20) with tons of fun and entertainment for everyone in the family—all for $124.99/night.  Activities include a family game and activity room (think board games, crafts and family friendly music), a movie room with kid-friendly flicks, bingo and wacky DJ games, a chocolate fountain, an Evening Manager’s reception, an indoor swimming and whirlpool, one large 2-topping pizza and a 2-liter bottle of soda per package, a goodie bag with local discount coupons and snacks, AND a full cooked-to-order breakfast buffet for all. (Call 614/790-9000 to book your package.)

Need more incentive? How about half-price admission to the #1 Zoo in the country? The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium is offering half-price general admission during the entire months of January and February.  That’s plenty of opportunity to see Polar Bear Twins Anana and Aurora frolicking in their cool Polar Frontier habitat the way three-year-old Polar bears sisters do.  It’s hard to beat that kind of economical family travel fun, right?  For more info, visit the Dublin CVB website or call 800/245-8387.

-Post by Mary

 

September 16, 2010

New Celtic Corner Offers Unique Gifts in Dublin Ohio

Posted by irishattitude under Insider tips, Irish, Shopping, Treasures, What's New | Tags: , , , , , , |
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As enthusiasts of all things with Irish attitude, we were thrilled to discover Dublin Ohio’s newest nod to Ireland: the Celtic Corner at the Dublin Arts Council’s Gift Shop (7125 Riverside Dr.)

This hidden gem may be the early antidote to all your holiday shopping headaches. Here you will discover Irish-themed gifts and “uniquely Dublin” artwork by area artists. Discover jewelry creations by Dublin artists Cathy Smith Gresham (seed-beaded mini-purses), Susan Bringardner (pieces featuring Czech and Swarovski crystals combined with natural stones, minerals, freshwater pearls and vintage beads) and Carolyn Pigman (sterling silver bracelets and earrings).

Check out the hand-thrown stoneware pottery by Tim Frederich, Historic Dublin scenic notecards, suncatchers, journals, pocket charms and much more. Know an Irish rock fan? Pick up a temporary armband tattoo. Buying for someone who appreciates Celtic traditions? How about an embossed leather-crafted journal or pewter measuring spoons?

Stopping by the Celtic Corner brings with it the added bonus of visiting the fabulous home of the Dublin Arts Council. Built in 1941, this historic French-eclectic style home is now on the National Register of Historic Places. The castle-like structure (which puts one in mind of an Irish estate) is an architectural masterpiece. It was the longtime home of Eleanor Gelpi—a committed champion of the arts in Columbus who served as a founding member of the Greater Columbus Arts Council, among other organizations.

Visit the Dublin Arts Council Gift Shop (and the Celtic Corner) during these hours: Tues. 10 a.m.- 7 p.m.; Wed.-Fri., 10 a.m.- 5 p.m.; Sat., 11 a.m. -2 p.m.

-Post by Mary

 

April 7, 2010

Aspiring Ohio Travel Forecaster

Posted by irishattitude under Events, Family Fun, Getaways, Insider tips, Ohio travel, Special Events, What's New | Tags: , , , , , , , |
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It may only be the first week of April, but we’re in a summer frame of mind at the Dublin CVB offices. Maybe it’s because we are just a five-minute drive to the #1 Zoo in the nation (and its awesome water park). Or maybe it’s because we are anticipating THREE world-class events that just happen to fall between May and August (PGA Memorial Tournament, Dublin Irish Festival and the 2010 Can-Am Police-Fire Games). For ALL of us who work in tourism, part of the excitement is summer=biggest TRAVEL season!

We’re just like you when it comes to travel. We’re addicted to it. There is something so exciting about exploring new places, meeting the locales, sampling the region’s cuisine and taking in new adventures. It’s memory-making at its finest when you can experience all of that with your family. We like a good deal, a nice play to stay, some great meals and—above all—a great value. The more days/nights we can get for our dollar, the better.

This year, travel forecasters are predicting that more of us will be booking our vacations online—and that we will be looking for special deals. No kidding. (I’ll bet you’re thinking what I’m thinking: I could be a travel forecaster.)  

As you are considering getaway options for this summer—be sure to check out our brand new Kids Eat Free Columbus Zoo/Zoombezi Getaway Package. This online build-it-yourself package offers discounted rates at 10 Dublin hotels (the closest to the Columbus Zoo), discounted tickets to the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium and Zoombezi Bay Water Park plus FREE kids meal coupons to six Dublin area restaurants.  Want more? Some of the hotels offer a free breakfast, a shuttle to the Zoo (saving the $5 parking fee) and goodies for the kids.  Got your calculator out? Yep, that’s a deal.

Now I’m putting on my travel forecaster hat and checking my crystal ball. I’m seeing polar bears, manatees, giant water slides, free food and ice cream for the kiddies, parents with their toes in a hotel pool (and a cool drink next to them). I’m seeing sunny weather and lots of smiles.  And I’m predicting that this summer’s really intelligent Ohio travelers will be checking out the Dublin OH Convention & Visitors Bureau’s  Kids Eat Free Columbus Zoo Getaway.

-Post by Mary

 

February 15, 2010

Dublin CVB Web Site Goes Green(er)

Posted by irishattitude under Insider tips, Irish, Ohio travel, Restaurants, Special Events, What's New | Tags: , , , , , , |
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Today, the Dublin (OH) Convention & Visitors Bureau became a little greener. We launched our new Web site (www.IrishisanAttitude.com) … infused with lots of Irish Attitude.  Not only are we excited about the site because of the cool new design, but because there are several cool new features.  These include …

  • A new search function. Seek (your word) and ye shall find.
  • Easier navigation.  Across the top. Down the side. Everywhere you look.
  • Irish inspired itinerary ideas. You’ve heard us talk about our Irish Attitude. Now, we’re offering itinerary ideas so you can come sample some of the tastes, visit the attractions and see the (green) sites.
  • Insider tips. We found the deals, specials, hidden treasures and favorite local spots–(and we’re sharing the info).
  • An expanded section for Event Planners. Looking for some specific tools to help you plan your next event?  We can help there, too.
  • A new dynamic map of Dublin. Find detailed location info on Dublin attractions, hotels, restaurants, golf courses, shopping, city and more.
  • A Plan Your Visit Section offering quick access to all the tools visitors will need to plan a Dublin getaway (maps, itineraries, Visitor Guide, etc.)

 AND (drumroll, please) … perhaps the most exciting feature of the site is the NEW “Dublin Live” page. Created to resemble a bulletin board, the page contains “live” news feeds and recent updates on things that are happening in and around Dublin. These include recent Dublin blog posts and “Tweets,” video and photo uploads, as well as getaway packages and restaurant deals.

We’ll be adding to the site daily … enhancing the restaurant, shopping and attraction sections and more. So, stop back often. You never know what you’ll discover!

-Post by Mary

 

November 24, 2009

The Holidays at Ha’penny

Posted by irishattitude under Historic Dublin, Holidays, Irish, Shopping, Special Events, What's New | Tags: , , , , , |
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I’ve never experienced the infamous “Black Friday.” Even though it seems fun, I haven’t had the overwhelming desire to wake up at 4 a.m. and fight for the best deals. I like to do my Christmas shopping at my own pace. I shuffle through stores to find a gift that’s truly unique. I shop online to get ideas. I even make my own gifts.

Big Al and Anne all decked out!

When I heard about the recent Belleek Signing Event at Ha’penny Bridge Imports of Ireland here in Dublin, Ohio, I immediately knew I wanted to check it out. I had no idea what Belleek Pottery was, but the event was centered around Belleek Representative–Roy Troughton–who was available to personalize your gifts with a Gaelic saying. So after work I strolled down the brick sidewalk to our neighboring Irish import shop.

When I entered Ha’penny Bridge Imports of Ireland I was greeted by Big Al, the store’s owner, suited up in a traditional Irish outfit (plaid kilt and everything). He offered me champagne, Irish potatoes, and gingerbread cookies. His wife Anne, explained to me the history of Belleek as I sipped my drink and enjoyed the satisfying snap of gingerbread.

Limited Edition Belleek Cachepot

“Belleek [Pottery] began in Belleek, Ireland in 1857,” said Anne. “It’s known throughout the world for its beautiful porcelain china and handcraftsmanship. Ha’penny began signing events over 10 years ago and is the largest Belleek dealer in Central Ohio.”

No two pieces are ever the same because each is crafted individually using techniques that have been passed down for generations.

After looking through the collections available at the store and receiving personal attention from one of their sales staff, I found three perfect gifts; a limited edition cachepot for my grandmother, a vase for my best friend and something special for myself. I couldn’t resist! Big Al and Anne helped me decide my Gaelic sayings and Roy scripted them beautifully on the bottom of each piece.

Signing the cachepot for my grandmother!

I left the store with my bag in hand and breathed in the cool air. I felt refreshed. The shopping experience I had at Ha’penny Bridge Imports of Ireland could never compare to the mayhem I imagine “Black Friday” creates. I’m looking forward to continuing my Christmas shopping so that each gift will have a story behind it.

- post by Allison

Ha’penny Bridge Imports of Ireland is open Monday -Saturday from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. The shop is located at 75 South High Street in Historic Dublin.

 

November 10, 2009

My #1 Secret to Giving the Coolest Holiday Gifts

Posted by irishattitude under Columbus Zoo, Events, Family Fun, Getaways, Holidays, Ohio travel, Special Events, What's New | Tags: , , , , , , , , , |
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I always struggle with what to get my nephews and niece for Christmas. Like most kids I know—they definitely do NOT need any more toys, games, etc. Columbus Zoo Wildlights(Of course, they’ll never admit that.) They have many adult relatives (with more money than I have) that cover their wish lists.  Still, I strive to be THE coolest aunt. (The women in my family are extremely competitive in this way.)

So, I decided last year to give them experiences. Basically, it goes like this: I ask each of them to come up with a list of (a) cool places in Ohio that they’d like to visit (b) fun things they like to do (i.e. ice skating, amusement parks, etc.) and (c) where they like to eat. Then we go through the list together, come up with a compromise and go! Some things get eliminated from the list if they are too expensive (my option). Some things get eliminated if they aren’t a good fit for everyone—(i.e. my nephews would never go for a day of mani/pedis and shopping … much to the chagrin of my niece and I).

This year, I think I’ve found a crowd pleaser that will make everyone happy. Actually, I found it without leaving my desk at work. It’s close-to-home. It’s inexpensive, all packaged up and ready to go. (And it helped that—as part of my job—I helped to create this fun getaway for visitors.) The official name for the package is Kids Go Free-Columbus Zoo Wildlights Getaway. The official details of the package are: (a) It can be booked online Nov. 20-Dec. 31 (b) It includes an overnight stay at a choice of Dublin (OH) hotels (c) It includes free kids passes to Wildlights at The Columbus Zoo (d) It includes a free kids meal at Bob Evans and a free junior scoop for kids from Graeter’s Ice Cream.

The unofficial reasons why I would book one of these packages? (a) The cost of the packages with hotel and Zoo tickets starts at $79 for a family of four. (Yes, you read that right.) That’s less than I would’ve spent on their combined Christmas gifts. (b) Staying at a hotel is WAY more fun than just driving to the Zoo, going out for dinner and ice cream and driving home (i.e. SLUMBER PARTY!, swimming etc.) (c) Contrary to popular belief, Dublin CVB staffers don’t get stuff for free.  But my biggest motivation is completely selfish. After I last planned one of these experiences, my 6-year-old niece gave me a hand-written thank you note that said, “Ant Mimi … you are the bast Aunt EVAR!!!!!!!!”  This year, I’m gonna top that.

-Post by Mary

 

November 5, 2009

Another Reason to be Thankful for Fall: Cupcakes!

Posted by irishattitude under Historic Dublin, Irish, Restaurants, Shopping, Uncategorized, What's New | Tags: , , , , , , |
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cupcakes

Organic Cupcakes: Pumpkin Spice, Buckeye

Yesterday, I took advantage of the last few nice days of fall and wandered down the streets of Historic Dublin, window shopping leisurely.  I peeked into the window of Sugar Inc., a little shop that offers 100% organic cupcakes (along with tea, coffee, salads, smoothies, and more).

The devil on my shoulder told me to go in.  His flip said “No! You need to lose a few pounds before the holidays… stay out!” I was debating the two sides in my head when I spied them – little mini cupcakes, just the right size for me and looking delicious. In I went. 

DSC_0583.NEF

Teas: Cranberry, Pomegranate

There was key lime, pumpkin spice, chocolate (with two kinds of icing!) and buckeyes.  So much to choose from! There are even Thanksgiving-themed turkey cupcakes (they look like turkeys, they don’t taste like turkeys). I asked Ava, the owner of Sugar Inc., and she suggested pumpkin spice. 
 
As I walked back to the office, eating my pumpkin spice cupcake, I thought to myself, “Irish is an Attitude, but a little bit of Irish in my tummy is yummy.”

- post by Andi

Sugar Inc. is open Monday-Saturday 11 a.m. – 9 p.m. and Sundays for private parties. The shop is located at 36 N. High St. in Historic Dublin.

 

November 3, 2009

New to Historic Dublin: Thalia & Dahlia

Posted by irishattitude under Holidays, Shopping, Special Events, Treasures, Uncategorized, What's New | Tags: , , , , , , |
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DSC_0446A few weeks ago, I heard we had a new neighbor in Historic Dublin. Intrigued, I packed my camera bag and went to photograph the wares. When I walked into Thalia & Dahlia, I met Christopher Krupa, one of the owners. Krupa and co-owner Michael Smith, both of whom previously worked at Curio Cabinet in Worthington, opened Thalia & Dahlia in September. We discussed the philosophy behind the gift shop, and he expressed his nostalgia for the way shopping “used to be,” relaying to me stories about a time when shopping meant more than rushing around the mall, visiting a collection of national chains where ”unique” means “exactly like a million others.”

Krupa was quoted in the Dublin Villager as saying, “Shopping used to be an experience. People used to get dressed up and go shopping. We want you to be excited about shopping again. We want it to be a wonderful experience.”

DSC_0535 A wonderful experience is exactly what the boutique provides. Located in a charming building on High Street — you know, one of those old houses with character to spare — Thalia & Dahlia offers a true variety of quality, unique items, from wreaths and flower arrangements (both hand-crafted by Krupa) to linens and tableware. I loved the various picture frames (one pictured above) and gorgeous china (example pictured here filled with lemons).

My favorite thing about Thalia & Dahlia is that their inventory is always changing, with an emphasis on seasonal items. Halloween items were featured in October and Thanksgiving will be featured this month.  I was delighted to hear that Thalia & Dahlia will not be putting out Christmas inventory until just before Thanksgiving. With most businesses jumping headfirst from Halloween into Christmas, by the middle of December I’m ready to kick the next Santa I see. No offense to Mr. Claus, it’s just too much! To my relief, Krupa told me that Thalia & Dahlia will debut their Christmas decor at an open house set to be held the weekend before Thanksgiving. Each room of the store will have a different theme. I’m already excited.

DSC_0548But let’s not get ahead of ourselves! In the meantime, you can attend their Thanksgiving Open House this Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. to see the lovely items available this month, as well as enter a drawing to win table linens. The boutique is located at 113 S. High St. For more information, call them at 614/336-8582.

If you can’t make it in this Saturday, put on your finest and stop by Thalia & Dahlia during regular hours: Tuesday through Friday 11 a.m.-7 p.m. and Saturday 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Happy shopping!

To see the rest of my photos of Thalia & Dahlia, click here.

- Post by Kelly

 

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