The Hudson Valley Irish Fest returns to Peekskill’s Riverfront Green Park this Saturday, September 24. The Fest runs from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. rain or shine. The suggested donation is $10 per person, ages 12 and under Free. No coolers or pets permitted. Advance tickets at www.hudsonvalleyirishfest.com/tickets.
Stated a release: "This is a community-based, all-volunteer, and not-for-profit cultural event. The Fest was established in 2009 to celebrate the rich Irish-American heritage in the Hudson Valley."
Dan Dennehy, founding chair, said: “Year-round planning goes into our Hudson riverside celebration of Irish and Irish American culture in Peekskill. The Fest, Irish Center, and Library provide high quality, affordable entertainment, educational and musical events for everyone.”
On the main stage with the Hudson River as a backdrop this year's musical entertainment includes Celtic Cross, The Cunningham Brothers Band, Jameson’s Revenge, T. McCann Band.
There will also be a 21st Anniversary 9/11 Commemoration with Tim Murphy and friends accompanied by Joe Brady, longtime Fighting 69th Regimental Pipe Major, and Massed Pipe Bands.
Continued the release: The Jack McAndrew Memorial Traditional Tent features Irish recording artists Mary Courtney, Donie Carroll, Don Meade, Liam O’Neill, and many more renowned traditional Irish musicians. The Clan Na hÉireann School of Irish Dance Tent features talented local Irish dancers.
The spoken word tent features the Irish American Writers & Artists and is moderated by author/ playwright John Kearns with best-selling authors, historians, poets, storytellers, and historical displays.
Outstanding artists and craftspeople from Ireland and the Hudson Valley are showcased. 18th Century Toys & Games‘ Shari Crawford, brings a unique interactive Children’s Area featuring costumes, storytelling, crafts, and other activities. Tempting food trucks and refreshments from area restaurants and Irish products are available.
The Fest is made possible by community support, particularly from the men, women, and families of Peekskill Division 18 Westchester County Hibernians. The Consulate General of Ireland in New York assists with an annual grant from the Emigrant Support Program of the Department of Foreign Affairs," said Dan Dennehy.
Visitors are encouraged to take MTA Metro-North’s Hudson Line to Peekskill train station, immediately adjacent to the Riverfront Green, It is a scenic one hour ride along the Hudson River from Grand Central Terminal. Ample free parking is available.
The Fest’s website is www.hudsonvalleyirishfest.com and Facebook page @HVIrishFest. Both offer details and directions to the Fest and pictures of past events.
For more information about the Hudson Valley Irish Fest, Center, and Library, contact Cathal McGreal, Hudson Valley Irish Fest Chair at cathalmcgreal@mac.com.
