The 20th annual Iowa Irish Fest returns to downtown Waterloo’s Lincoln Park beginning Friday, July 31 and running through August 2, bringing with it one of the Midwest’s largest celebrations of Irish music, dance, culture and heritage.
The festival officially begins with the Opening Ceremony on the Nagle Sign/KWWL Stage. According to a release, festival goers can then enjoy a full weekend of live entertainment featuring headlining performances by Scythian on Friday and Gaelic Storm on Saturday and Sunday.
Added the release: "New this year, visitors are invited to explore an exhibit on Irish immigration to Iowa at the Elks Lodge Ballroom. The Elks Lodge will also host Travel and Tour Workshops and Artist Series Workshops, all included with paid festival admission.
"Take a stroll through the Cultural Village and experience the rich traditions of Ireland firsthand. Watch live blacksmithing demonstrations, try your hand at fiber arts with the NE Iowa Spinners and Weavers Guild, and see DKW Gallery create Irish-inspired artwork. Learn a cúpla focal (a few words) of Irish during our local language classes.
"After exploring the Cultural Village, unwind at Dillon’s Pub with a quiet beverage and live traditional music in an authentic Irish pub atmosphere. Beer enthusiasts won’t want to miss the Guinness Experience, where a National Guinness Brand Ambassador will share the history of Guinness brewing through an engaging storytelling seminar featuring Guinness family beers.
"Whiskey lovers can enjoy several whiskey workshops throughout the weekend, including a special presentation by Sean Scully, co-founder of Clonakilty Distillery in County Cork, Ireland.
"Scully will share the story of the distillery’s history and modern-day operations. Guests will also have the opportunity to purchase the official Iowa Irish Fest 20th Anniversary Whiskey, created in partnership with Holladay Bourbon, at the Whiskey Snug. Festival tickets are on sale now at IowaIrishFest.com. Children ages 15 and younger receive free admission with a paid adult ticket, making Iowa Irish Fest an affordable event for the entire family. Families are also encouraged to visit the festival’s dedicated Family Area, featuring activities for children of all ages."
Iowa Irish Fest is organized annually by the Cedar Valley Irish Culture Association, a nonprofit organization dedicated to fostering Irish fellowship and strengthening community connections through Irish cultural events and educational programs. More at www.IowaIrishFest.com.
