Welcome to the blog

Searching for that “perfect” gift for the man in your life? Men’s Celtic jewellery may not be the first thing that comes to mind, but Shanore’s new “Spirit of the Celt” Gentlemen’s collection opens up a world of possibilities full of meaning and symbolism. Whether for Dad, Grandfather, uncle, godfather, friend, or son, this premiering […]

We are happy to give you an inside look into the creative genius of jewelry designer, Keith Jack. Originally from Scotland, Keith emigrated to Western Canada where his product line exploded into vibrant, traditional and contemporary Celtic designs.  While deeply inspired by his Scottish roots, Keith takes the ancient symbols of his culture and interprets […]

A culture is comprised of many things. The Irish culture is one of iconic music, dance, symbology, and products from the land and sea. At Donegal Square and McCarthy’s Red Stag Pub, we believe in educating our customers just as much on the island’s cuisine as on the craft of the handknit Irish sweater. One […]

Happy 4th of July, lads and lasses! Every year, we celebrate the signing of the Declaration of Independence as a pivotal moment in our nation’s history. As a nation of immigrants, that history has been shaped by millions of influential figures from all over the world. The signers of the Declaration hailed from the thirteen […]

July 12, Orangemen’s Day or simply The Twelfth, commemorates the victory of Prince William of Orange (a Protestant) over James II (a Catholic) at the Battle of the Boyne in 1690. The celebration is held by the Orange Order, a Protestant fraternal organization. Why Orange? The colors of the Irish tricolor flag are easily recognizable: […]

July 12, Orangemen’s Day or simply The Twelfth, commemorates the victory of Prince William of Orange (a Protestant) over James II (a Catholic) at the Battle of the Boyne in 1690. The celebration is held by the Orange Order, a Protestant fraternal organization. Why Orange? The colors of the Irish tricolor flag are easily recognizable: […]

Field Hockey Led to Donegal Square? Yes, it did! Neville Gardner, our fearless leader at Donegal Square and McCarthy’s Red Stag Pub, was once a young lad who was quite good at field hockey. So good, in fact, that he played for the Irish national team! In 1978, he was at a hockey tournament in […]

They say everyone is Irish on St. Patrick’s Day, which is ironic because Saint Patrick himself was not even Irish. Very little is actually known about the life of Saint Patrick, although many myths and misperceptions persist and surface this time of year. Much of what is known about Saint Patrick comes from two documents: […]

People often refer to Donegal Square as “the Irish store”. In fact, we represent many of the Celtic nations, including the small but mighty Wales! March 1 is St. David’s Day celebrating the patron saint of Wales who is said to have died on that day in the year 589. Welsh Symbolism Several symbols are […]