What is a Ceilidh

Originally, a ceilidh was a social gathering of any sort, and did not necessarily involve dancing. Céilidh music may be provided by an assortment of fiddle, flute, tin whistle, accordion, bodhrán, and in more recent times also drums and electric bass guitar. The music is cheerful and lively, and the basic steps can be learned easily; a short instructional session is often provided for new dancers before the start of the dance itself. In Ireland the first céilidh band was put together in 1926 by Séamus Clandillon, Radio Éireann's director of Music, in order to have dance music for his studio-based programmes

Dancing at céilidhe is usually in the form of céilidh dances, set dances or couple dances. A "Set" consists of four couples, with each pair of couples facing another in a square or rectangular formation. Each couple exchanges position with the facing couple, and also facing couples exchange partners, while all the time keeping in step with the beat of the music. However, about half of the dances in the modern Scots céilidh are couple dances performed in a ring. These can be performed by fixed couples or in the more sociable "progressive" manner, with the lady moving to the next gentleman in the ring at or near the end of each repetition of the steps. In Ireland, the similar style of dance is called céili dance or fíor (true) céili dance. Some of the dances are named after famous historical battles and events, others after items of daily rural life. The "Siege of Ennis", "The Walls of Limerick" and "The Stack of Barley" are popular dances in this genre.

These days, a ceilidh or barn dance is simply a dance party with traditional folk music. It is suitable for all ages and, although the dances are generally quite lively, there will be some suited to the very old or young. The movements may often be made by walking, but it's more fun to dance/step to the tunes. The dancing does not require any experience because a 'caller' explains or demonstrates each dance first — it's easy !

That's why a ceilidh is so good for weddings or gatherings where people are brought together and wish to share a "fun" experience.

Wikipedia has a more detailed explanation of the meaning of 'Ceilidh'.

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