While the Emerald Isle is green all year long, March is the time for a flurry of green in cold, dreary NJ. Working in Spring Lake, otherwise known as the Irish Riviera, makes this Irish guy feel right at home. My ancestors emigrated from Ireland and my siblings and I are still proud to celebrate our heritage. St. Patrick’s Day is coming up. The Belmar St. Patty’s Day Parade is this Sunday, March 5, and I am feeling particularly festive.
One way to celebrate is by visiting downtown Spring Lake’s very own Irish Centre. (Our SL Ward Wight Sotheby’s office is right across the street!) As you approach, you hear the lilting Irish music playing. You are warmly invited into the shop, owned by Moya & Aiden, who hail from Ireland, themselves. The experience in The Irish Centre is authentic. You’ll find traditional Irish wool sweaters, hats, scarves, and more- for both children and adults. There is a wide variety of clothing.
The shop has gifts for many special occasions and life events. If you’re looking for a wedding gift, the Irish Center carries brands like Belleek, Waterford, and Simon Pearce. Gifts can be found for Baptisms and First Holy Communions, like rosaries, jewelry, frames, plaques. Other religious items are sold here, too.
When shopping you’ll be surrounded by Claddaghs, Celtic knots and crosses, family crests, trinity symbols, Irish flags, and the like. They’re all really nice call backs to Ireland’s culture and rich history. The back of the store is full of candy, food, and snacks that you normally can only get in Europe- such a treat!
Another cool thing is that they have a live cam on their website– take a look at the hustle and bustle this St. Patrick’s Day season (and all year round, honestly).
Even if you’re not Irish, it’s a fun place to stop by and appreciate all things Irish and to get your green on. You’ll be doing March THE SKEA WAY!
The Skea Way 