Milwaukee Irish Fest, the United States’ largest Irish and Celtic celebration, has released exciting new details about the dream four-day summer getaway for music fans.
This year’s festival, August 16 – 19, will once again welcome hundreds of musicians and entertainers from across the globe. From fan favorites like We Banjo 3, to emerging artists such as Talisk, the four-day festival located at the Henry W. Maier Festival Park on Milwaukee’s lakefront is not to be missed.
A few exciting new surprises are in store for this year, for VIP ticket holders and all attendees! Check out the ticket packages on sale now.
Heroes Hut
Well this is a lovely tribute! The Heroes Hut is a covered rest area which will offer complimentary snacks, non-alcoholic beverages, and veterans resource information.
Heroes Hut is open to active and retired military members, veterans of all military branches, first responders and up to 3 accompanying family members. This area will honor Heroes of all ethnic backgrounds, not just the Irish. The Heroes Hut will be located along the lake shore north of the Snug stage.
New Family Brunch Event
Your chance to visit the festival grounds before they even open to the public on the morning of Saturday, August 18! Brunch with Paddy and Molly McFest is fun for the whole family.
Expand your mind in the Irish Cultural Village
Spend some time in the Irish cultural village brushing up on your knowledge of the following fascinating Irish subject areas:
The Irish Horse: there are many breeds of Irish horses, and we will be exploring their common ancestor, the Irish Hobby Horse. From this breed, now extinct, came the Kerry Mine Pony, the Connemara Pony and the Irish Draught Horse. Learn more about these amazing breeds in the cultural pavilion.
The Uilleann Pipes: Ireland’s heritage instrument. In December 2017, the uilleann pipes were recognized by Unesco as an important symbol of Ireland’s heritage. The musical instrument has been added to the organization’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. Pipe maker and piper Tim Britton (who will also perform at the festival) will have a display on the pipes in the cultural pavilion and will demonstrate how the pipes are played.
The Irish in Latin America Exhibit: This acclaimed display developed by the Irish government has traveled across America and highlights the Irish who had an impact on the history and culture of so many different lands, such as Argentina, Bolivia, Mexico and more.
The Literary Corner: Will feature new authors such as Sile Post, who will bring her award-winning novel that’s based on her passion for conservation and exploration of her own Gaelic roots in Prince Edward Island, Vermont, Chicago and Ireland.
Special new VIP opportunities
Jameson on the Rocks: The finest Jameson Irish Whiskey brands will be offered in the new Jameson on the Rocks location, such as items that aren’t mass-marketed, limited, and highly distinguished premium whiskeys – examples are Rarest Vintage Reserve, Red Breast 21, Midleton Very Rare and more. This new location overlooks the beautiful lakefront will be open Friday and Saturday from 3 – 11 pm and on Sunday from 2 – 8 pm. Entrance fee is $10 which acts as credit towards your first drink.
Failte Club VIP Experience – now available all 4 days
The Failte Club is located on the Upper Deck in the Miller Lite oasis area and overlooks the Miller Lite stage, which features bands such as Gaelic Storm and Jiggy. The VIP experience includes 2 complimentary beverages - beer, wine, soda & water, a private bar (beer, wine, soda & water - Jameson Whiskey also available; cash or card accepted), private restrooms, and Wi-Fi. The ultimate festival experience!
New in Music
Over 15 bands will make their Milwaukee Irish Fest debut this August, such as the Scotland trio Talisk, the Irish language advocates group Seo Linn, Ireland’s number one indie/rock group The Coronas and more. Here are a few highlights to look forward to:
- 9 artists from Nova Scotia will perform as part of Nova Scotia: The Celtic Heart of North America Showcase: Natalie MacMaster, Donnell Leahy and Family, Coig, Shannon Quinn, Shreem x Celtic Remixing, The Stanfields, Mary Jane Lamond and Wendy MacIsaac, Scott Macmillan and Colin Grant, and Decota McNamara
- The Red Hot Chilli Pipers return to Irish Fest this year and will kick off the festival on Thursday with a show that will include local Milwaukee piping bands! Admission is free on Thursday if you donate school supplies (please note that only partial grounds are open)
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