Lá Fhéile Vailintín Sona Duit - Happy Valentine’s Day from Ireland❤️
john barry
February is a meaningful month on the Irish calendar - a time that celebrates love, renewal, and the promise of spring. The month begins with St. Brigid’s Day on February 1st, a beloved Irish holiday that marks the beginning of spring and honors one of Ireland’s patron saints. Not long after comes Valentine’s Day on February 14th, a celebration of love that, while not uniquely Irish, holds a surprising and heartfelt connection to Ireland itself.
In Dublin, Whitefriar Street Church is home to a sacred relic believed to be the heart of St. Valentine. Each year on Valentine’s Day, couples from around the world gather there for a special “blessing of the rings,” making Ireland a quietly romantic destination for those celebrating love and commitment.
Ireland’s Most Enduring Symbol of Love: The Claddagh Ring
Did you know that one of the world’s most iconic symbols of love originated in Ireland? The Claddagh ring, first created in Galway in the 17th century, has become a timeless expression of affection - often given for anniversaries, engagements, friendships, and Valentine’s Day.
Its design tells a story all its own:
🤝 Hands represent friendship
❤️ Heart represents love
👑 Crown represents loyalty
Even the way you wear a Claddagh ring carries meaning:
Right hand, heart facing outward: looking for love
Right hand, heart facing inward: love has been found
Left hand, heart facing inward: happily married
It’s a beautiful tradition that connects the wearer to centuries of Irish heritage and heartfelt symbolism.
Celebrate Love the Irish Way
At the Irish Boutique of Cedarburg, you’ll find a wide selection of authentic Claddagh pieces for your Valentine - from traditional sterling silver and yellow gold rings to earrings, necklaces, and even beautifully crafted Claddagh jewelry boxes. Every piece is made in Ireland, ensuring genuine craftsmanship and heritage.
Not shopping for jewelry? No worries - we offer plenty of thoughtful alternatives, including pins, wall hangings, cards, glassware, and lamps, each carrying a touch of Irish charm. And if the Claddagh isn’t quite your style, we’re always happy to help you find the perfect Irish gift to celebrate the ones you love.
Whether you’re honoring a new romance, a lifelong partnership, or simply the friendships that make life meaningful, we wish you a joyful and love-filled Lá Fhéile Vailintín Sona Duit.