Tir Na Nog: A Trenton tradition

October 12, 2:13 PMTrenton Bars ExaminerRick Fortenbaugh

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When it comes to ambiance and tradition in Trenton, few bars can match Tir Na Nog on Hamiton Avenue. "Tir Na Nog'' is an old Irish saying and translates to land of eternal youth  in English. Anyone who has ever patronized this pub would agree it's an appropriate name because it's well known for people letting loose and having a good time.

Founded 18 year ago  by the late "Irish'' Billy Briggs, the bar is still owned by his family. Tir Na Nog features Irish music most nights of the week and looks like a pub straight from Dublin.  There are all kinds of Irish paraphernalia on the walls, including street signs, posters and advertisements for some of the most famous Irish beers and ales. Many of  them like Guinness, Harp's and  Smithwick's are part of Tir Na Nog's excellent selection of tapped and bottled beer.

While you can find people playing darts most nights at Tir Na Nog,  what really makes the place go is its Irish music. Quality Irish bands from around the Delaware Valley regularly make guest appearances. They also usually comes back because the musicians often appear to have as good a time as the patrons. The Tir Na Nog building is basically a converted row home, and it's this cramped and cozy atmosphere that helps give the bar its charm.

There are a couple of traditions that also help make Tir Na Nog stand out from other area Irish pubs.. One is it's always packed on Trenton''s successful and highly-popular Irish Day Parade. The other occurs at closing time, or  when the band stops playing. At this time, everyone respectfully stands to listen to the singing of the Irish National Anthem and God Bless America.  Following these two songs, the speaker always says "God Bless Glasgow Celtic'' and "God Bless Billy Briggs.'

Unlike many Trenton bars that will close early if there aren't enough customers, Tir Na Nog always stays open to 2 a.m. Of  course, with a friendly atmosphere, excellent beer selection and lively live music, Tir Na Nog is rarely lacking for patrons.

For more:
Tir Na Nog
1324 Hamilton Ave
Trenton, NJ 08629
(609) 392-2554