July 4th in Ireland ...and Some Neat Giveaways

First of all, Happy July 4th weekend to all who celebrate the holiday! Having grown up in Philadephia, Pa, I do remember what July 4th was like in America. I did love that holiday! My family would have a barbecue, and the fireworks were wonderful. Although July 4th is not celebrated all over Ireland, there is a wonderful American Independence Celebraion at Ulster American Folk Park. Thousands of visitors come to the Omagh Museum and park to enjoy the spectacular re-enactments from the American War of Independence with particpants from France, England and all parts of Ireland. Joe and I went there a few years ago and thoroughly enjoyed it, and we will go there again next year. You get to see famous battles staged, you can walk around the army encampments, and there are even Indians there. You can see the Park's site here.

We took some great pics of our trip years ago, and I have picked out 6 for you to see. If you ever do visit Ireland, stop by the Ulster American Folk Park...You will just love it.

As for our village, we have two hotels on the main street. The largest one at the corner is Arnolds Hotel, and they are having a big American style dinner over the weekend in honour of the July 4th holiday, and as you can see, there is an American flag flying next to the Irish flag. One of our pubs called Molly's Bar is doing the same. No celebration for me this year.I will be staying home as I am not feeling too well. I will have to just rest and take my meds. I am still in shock that one bug bite can cause so much havoc. Anyways, next year, we will go back to Ulster Park, as I would love to see it all again.

Happy July 4th! I look forward to reading the blog posts about all your celebrations that you had. I may be living in Ireland, but I will always be a Philly girl. and it is so nice to hear about my former home. If you are not celebrating July 4th, just have a lovely weekend!!!

Finally, Lori has a wonderful giveaway....stop by and see it. You will love the prizes, and her blog is great! I just discovered it, and will be continuing to follow it. Lisa also is having a giveaway to celebrate her 100th post. Have fun visiting her! Also at Happy Cottage Quilter, there is the cutest giveaway. Barb has a Christmas in July Giveaway which you can see here.