Milwaukee Irish Fest Celebrates 30th Anniversary In August
Milwaukee Irish Fest – the largest celebration of Irish music and culture in the United States is celebrating its 30th anniversary in 2010. This unique four-day festival, held along the shores of Lake Michigan in downtown Milwaukee, offers an affordable and enlightening cultural experience for visitors of all ages. This year’s festival will be held August 19-22. More than 130,000 people attend Milwaukee Irish Fest each year to take in 100 diverse entertainment acts on 16 stages. All of the music, dance, drama, sports and culture that make Ireland such a popular American tourism destination are well represented here.
When most folks think about Ireland, music is one of the first things that comes to mind. And, Milwaukee Irish Fest certainly delivers in that regard. Favorites set to return this year include, Cherish The Ladies, Gaelic Storm, Green Fields of America, Slide, The Celtic Tenors and more. The Celtic Rock Stage will be hopping this year with the sounds of the Red Hot Chilli Pipers, The Screaming Orphans and The Young Dubliners.
While many visitors come for the music, it’s also important to note that Milwaukee Irish Fest offers so much more. Attendees can stroll through the Cultural Village, which will offer exhibits, activities, shopping and education on the finer points of Irish culture and heritage. The Moore Street Market is another must-see destination featuring some of the best artists from Ireland and Northern Ireland. Donegal knitter Rosaleen Hegarty will also be returning and retro versions of Gaelic Athletic Association (GAA) jerseys and clothing will be available for purchase. Families with young kids won’t want to miss the Children’s Area. And, the Liturgy on Sunday morning, which is attended by thousands, will be presided over by John McAreavey, Bishop of Dromore, Northern Ireland.
“Milwaukee Irish Fest really has pretty humble beginnings, having started out as just a small gathering to celebrate Irish heritage here in Milwaukee,” said Jane Anderson, executive director of Milwaukee Irish Fest, “It’s hard to believe, in many respects, that it has since grown and improved to become the preeminent festival of its kind in the United States. We’re very proud of Milwaukee Irish Fest and invite everyone to visit us this August to help celebrate our 30th anniversary. As always, it promises to be very informative…and a whole lot of fun.”
