Lakeside Retirement Residence in Innisfil hosts a special event on a different theme every month, inviting residents and guests from the community to enjoy refreshments and live entertainment.
None of those events is more popular than Lakeside’s St. Patrick’s Day Party in March, an afternoon of emerald-green punch, cupcakes, Irish music and Irish dancers.
Residents get into the spirit of the day by donning anything they own that’s green, and adding a wild selection of party hats, ties, oversized sunglasses and shamrocks, from Lakeside's collection.
This year, they enthusiastically joined in as Lorne Derraugh and son Sean played songs that included Wild Irish Rose and Danny Boy, on keyboard and clarinet.
“Top ‘o the morning to you,” said the elder Derraugh, explaining that the family name comes from “Daur” – celtic for Oak tree, sacred to the druids.
“My great-great-grandfather came over in 1837 and I’ve been here ever since,” he told the residents, to laughter.
After the singalong, young dancers with the Miller School of Irish Dance provided more entertainment. In their purple school costumes, dancers as young as four performed Irish Caleigh dances, jigs and reels, to the delight of the audience.
Maureen Miller, school founder, introduced her young dancers, and explained that only when they reach a certain level of proficiency do they get to wear a dress other than the school costume.
“When they get to a certain level, they’re allowed to wear a solo costume,” Miller said – often something with elaborate embroidery, and sequins. “Sparkly!”
Each solo dress is custom-designed, a work of art that expresses the personality of the dancer, and gives her confidence and an extra edge in competition.
Young Teagan Harrison was striking in her solo costume. She'll be heading to the North American championships on April 14 in North Carolina.
For those looking for more Irish fun on St. Patrick’s Day, there are other local events:
Churchill United Church is hosting a St. Patrick’s Day Dinner, on Sunday, March 17 from 5-6:30 p.m. Enjoy ham and scalloped potatoes, with homemade pie for dessert. $20 adults; $50 families. RSVP to Mary Ellen, 705-456-5188.
The Village Inn Bradford celebrates St. Patrick’s Day on Sunday, March 17 – with DJ Jacster of Scaraoke Entertainment, karaoke, prizes and green beer! Starts at 8 p.m.
