The hustle and bustle of Dublin. The scenic countryside where tradition holds that St. Patrick fasted for 40 days atop Croagh Patrick Mountain. The 15th century Bunratty Castle that played host to a medieval-style banquet complete with singing lords and ladies.

The husband and wife, together with 78 other relatives and members of the East Islip, Long Island, division of the Ancient Order of Hibernians Our Lady of Knock, a fraternal organization that's long helped new Irish immigrants adjust to life in America, saw it all -- and more.

"It really did feel like we were home," says Mac, 57, who works for a local school district. "Everyone we met, from the CIE Tours International guides to the Irish people, made us feel like we were family."

The fourth day was the clincher.

At the Knock Shrine in the County Mayo village of Knock -- world-renowned as the site where the Virgin Mary, Saint Joseph and John the Baptist are said to have appeared on Aug. 21, 1879 -- Debbie and Mac reaffirmed the marriage vows they'd first made to each other 30 years ago on Long Island.

"It was an anniversary we'll never forget," says Debbie, a 52-year-old nurse. "And both our parents and our daughter were there for it."

The Gathering is thought of in Ireland as "the people's party," with locals themselves intent on helping the huge Irish diaspora here in the U.S. soak up the best of the Emerald Isle's culture, tradition and unique sense of fun. Among the big events still to come this year are: Bloomsday in Bruff, a celebration of all things James Joyce; the Dublin Bay Prawn Festival; National Heritage Week; the Tramore Horseracing Festival; and the Cats Laughs Comedy Festival.

If You Go: The respected CIE Tours International has escorted millions of Americans to Ireland over the past 81 years and offers many fully inclusive vacations, including the exclusive motorcoach tour booked by the McFadden group. For info, contact your travel agent or call CIE at 1-800-243-8687 or visit www.cietours.com/gathering.