Irish Fest features an area on the south end of the festival grounds dedicated to Irish and Celtic culture!
Cultural Pavilion
The Pavilion continues its long tradition of bringing all things Irish and Celtic to the festival through digital and physical displays. We will again have and exhibit on the 100 Anniversary of the end of the Irish Civil War, which ended in 1923. We will also have a return of the Mythology of Ireland; the Fauna of Ireland; and the story of Colmcille. We will work with Niamh Hamill on an exhibit about St. Brigid. And we will feature the life surrounding and in Ireland's waterways. We will also have an interactive child's aquarium, filled with stuffed whales, dolphins and octopus. More to come!
Literary Corner
Popular Irish author Carlene O’Connor will join us this year in the Literary Corner. Latest additions to her Irish Village Series will be available along with a new novel based in Donegal, No Strangers Here. Be sure to stop by and chat with Carlene.
Hedge School
History, genealogy, politics, literature, modern culture and more will be discussed in the Hedge School.
Theatre Pavilion
In keeping with the rich Irish association with theatre performance, Milwaukee will again present a range of plays for our audience enjoyment. We have some comedy, some love story and a wide selection of other topics. There might even be a chance for an audience member to join in the fun!
Gaeltacht
Steeped in tradition, brimming with talent and sweetened with native speakers, the Gaeltacht line-up is sure to hit the spot. The Gaeltacht, or Irish speaking area, will showcase the Irish language and traditional Irish culture. You can learn simple Irish phrases or challenge yourself with some flirty chat-up lines! You can stop in any time and enjoy traditional Irish humor, song, dance and language. The Gaeltacht is where the Irish go to feel at home!
Genealogy
How Did your Celtic Ancestors Get to the Midwest? Find out at the Genealogy Tent, located on the south end of the grounds in the Cultural Area. This year’s interesting new displays focus on the immigration of your Celtic Ancestors and their travel to midwestern states which includes mapping of these immigration routes. Come meet Professional Genealogists who will make presentations and provide consultations. The tent will also bring back favorite exhibits on DNA, Irish First Names, Irish Surnames, and much more to assist you in your genealogical journey. One-to-one Researchers will also be available to support you in your searches. Don’t miss out visiting this area to complete your Irish Fest experience!
Irish Language Workshop
Learn more about Gaelic, the Irish language, and its history at our Irish Language Workshop tent! This year's workshop features Dr. Tara MacLeod and Dr. Brian O'Conchubhair from Notre Dame University.