Like many good phrases in English, the Irish language is the source. For instance, "going on a spree" has its roots in Celtic Ireland.
The Irish word spraoi means fun, and going on a spree or a spending spree is part of our oldest tradition.
This weekend Spraoi Laoise is being staged in Portlaoise, and it is a spree with a difference. The first of its kind in the country and funded by Laois County Council, it is for the over-50s.
It is being held to mark the United Nations International Year of Older Persons and 100 years of local government.
Laois has no more or no fewer older people than any other county in the State, but it does claim to have appointed the first full-time recreation and sports officer in any county.
She is Ann Marie Maher, and it was her idea to hold the festival for over-50s. Even she did not realise what a success this would turn out to be.
Barry Gleeson, the festival coordinator, said yesterday that the invitation to the 50-plus population anywhere in Ireland to come to the town has been taken up with a vengeance.
"We have groups booked in from Belfast and from Cork and it looks as if we are going to have people from all over the country taking part," he said.
They are coming to try out a series of events which include walking, bowling, skittles, "welly throwing", massage, late-night dancing and golf.
In addition there will be information seminars, Tai-chi, story telling, glass engraving, archery, snooker, swimming, rugby, fishing, table-tennis and table quizzes.
"All the sports will be graded to suit the level of fitness of the people taking part, and all instruction for the sports will be free," said Barry.
Asked if he was not afraid that some of the older people might overstretch themselves, Barry said that St John's Ambulance personnel will be on hand at all events.
"We will, as I said, structure the events to suit all levels of fitness and we are not expecting any problems," he said.
The organisers will provide free transport to the walking and other events which are held outside the town, and accommodation can also be arranged.
Spraoi Laoise will be officially opened in O'Moore Park by the RTE broadcaster and chairman of Bord na Gaeilge, Michael O Muircheartaigh, at 10.30 a.m. on Saturday. (He is interviewed by Eileen Battersby on page 12)
According to Barry, at least 1,500 people are expected to attend. The festival will end with a multi-event field day in the park from 1.30 p.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday.
Those wishing to take part can contact the organisers at (0502) 62867/8 or fax (0502) 63369.