Irish Fest Brings Ireland to Milwaukee Wisconsin
Summerfest Grounds Become Celtic August 14-17, 2008
Aug 2, 2008
A touch of Ireland will be coming to the lakefront in MIlwaukee, Wisconsin on August 14 - August 17, 2008. Irish Fest will be held at the Summerfest Ground, officially the Henry G. Maier Festival Park, on the shores of Lake Michigan. Milwaukee's Irish Fest is the largest celebration of Irish music and culture in the world. Over 100 entertainment acts are featured on 16 stages over the four day festival.
Irish Fest is passionately committed to igniting a love of Irish culture in all people. The festival teaches Ireland's music, dance, culture, drama, sports, children's activities and genealogy.
Milwaukee Irish Fest was founded in 1980 and has grown into a popular cultural event. The Smithsonian Institute National Folk Life Program has called Irish Fest "the largest and best Irish cultural event in North America." as quoted on the Irish fest official website.
Irish Fest Theme is Galway, Ireland
The 2008 Festival theme is Galway, Ireland. This is one of the biggest cultural and entertainment showcases brought to Irish Fest to date. Renowned musicians from Ireland's west coast will appear, including: Furry Village, The Saw Doctors, Trad on the Prom, The Kane Sisters, the Maimin Cajun Band and Marc Roberts.
The Cultural Village will have several exhibits focusing on Galway, including The 14 Tribes of Galway and the story of Galway's' legendary Claddaugh ring.
Liturgy on Sunday
A Liturgy for Peace and Justice will be held Sunday at 9:30 am. Milwaukee's newly appointed Bishop Callahan with celebrate the Liturgy of Peace & Justice with Bishop Drennan of Galway. Guests who donate non-perishable food items prior to the liturgy will be admitted to the festival free of charge after the mass.
Stages of Entertainment
A variety of Irish entertainment will be featured on 16 stages, including McGorthy's Tipperary Stage, Miller Lite Stage, Lakefront Brewery Celtic Roots Stage, Leinie's Celtic Rock Stage, Miller High Life Stage/Parkview, Harp Tent and more.
Food at Irish Fest
Irish flavors and festival food will be available for purchase. Irish fare includes Irish Stew, Fish & Chips, Shepherd's Pie, Corned Beef Sandwich, Reuben Sandwich, Irish Sausage and potatoes.
Market Place
Arts and crafts from Irish vendors and artisans will be available for purchase in the marketplace. It is a great time to get started on Christmas shopping for that Irish friend or family member.
Festival Highlights
- Family Passport to Irish Fest; Pirate Paddy leads the whole family on an adventure. The Family Passport features family oriented activities on Friday form 4 to 7 pm, Saturday 12 to 4 pm and Sunday 12 to 4 pm.
- Jameson Lounge: Guests 21 and older can relax at the new Jameson Lounge, located at the Paddy O West deck. Admission is complimentary. Authentic Irish Whiskey tasting will be held in the lounge for $15. Reservations are taken on a first come, first served basis, and can be made at the Paddy O West Area.
- College Day: On Sunday, August 17, students with valid student ID will receive $2 off admission from 3 to 9 pm.
- Where's your Paddy? Thursday, August 14, 6-9 pm. Milwaukee's largest happy hour will be held in the Crossroads area. Entry is free, but a card from a participating pub must be shown upon entry. Pubs offering cards include; Brocach, Caffrey's Pub, County Clare, Flannery's The Harp, The Irish Pub, Judge's, Kelly's Bleachers, McGillycuddy's, McGinn's Mo's Irish Pub, O'Brien's Paddy's Pub, Slim's, Trinity Bars and Triskele's.
- Moore St. Market. Belleek collectibles will be appraised on Thurday night by Tony Hearty, who specializes in antique Bellleek pottery. He will also be displaying and selling some of his rare collection of Belleek.
- Celtic Canines. Meet some to Ireland's most popular dog breeds. Top breeders share information about the nine most popular Irish breeds. Demos take place hourly in the Celtic Canine Area. Celtic Canines: Dog Breeds of Ireland
Hours and Ticket Prices
- Thursday Grand Hooley 5:00 - 10:00 pm. $5 Admission. Free admission with donation of school supplies for children served by Hope House
- Friday 4:00 to midnight. Adults $15, Seniors (60+) $10, Kids 12 and under Free. Free Admission from 4-5 pm
- Saturday: noon to midnight. Adults $15, Seniors (60+) $10, Kids 12 and under Free
- Sunday: 11:00 am to 10:00 pm. Adults $15, Seniors (60+) $10, Kids 12 and under Free. Free admission with donation of non perishable food items prior to the mass. College Day. $2 discount off from 3 - 0 pm with valid student ID.
Information is subject to change. See the official Irish Fest website for details.
For more Festival fun in Wisconsin, see Bristol Renaissance Faire Kenosha
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