For a Ceilidh, real ale is essential. The only alternative is to drink water. All the fizzy stuff (lager, carbonated sodas etc) are unsuitable in large quantities (to reduce dehydration during energetic dancing) because of the build up of gas they often cause. The build up of gas can either make one feel bloated, or, if expelled, can make one unnacceptable company.

Blackcatter:
The distinction BanjoRay is making is that "keg" beer is kept fresh by being in a sealed container which keeps oxygen out by introducing pressurised gas to replace the liquid consumed. "Cask" beer (a.k.a. real ale) is kept in casks which are broached with a spiggot (tap/faucet) from which the beer can be dispensed directly to a glass, or via tubing to a delivery point on the bar. A cask replaces the voulume of liquid dispensed by production of its own gas, as it is still fermenting within the cask. If too much is drawn out too quickly, air can be allowed in by knocking a second hole (The spile) at the top of the cask. This can be replaced by a wooden bung when the cask has equalised its pressure.

MBSLynne: Miskin (Easter) usually has a couple of good ciders (5 gal. polycasks) to supplement the real-ale bar

CHEERS

Nigel