Fans of the pipes and drums will be well entertained at Saturday’s ninth annual Hudson Valley Irish Fest
By Irish Echo Staff
According to the weather forecast it will either be a fine early fall day, or a fine Irish summer’s day.
Either way you take it, the Hudson Valley Irish Fest returns to Peekskill’s Riverfront Green this Saturday, September 30. The Fest will run from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. rain or shine.
Admission is a $10 per person suggested donation. Ages 12 and under are free.
According to a release, headline acts this year include Celtic Cross, McLean Avenue Band, Irish superstar Aoife Scott and band, “Roses in the Garden,” a variety show by the NY/NJ Rose of Tralee Center, Tim Murphy and massed pipe bands.
The Jack McAndrew Memorial Traditional Tent will feature Irish recording artists Mary Courtney, Donie Carroll, local Irish step dancers and traditional Irish musicians. The spoken word tent will feature authors, historians, poets, storytellers and historical displays.
Stated the release: The community-based, not for profit cultural event celebrates the rich Irish-American heritage of the lower Hudson Valley.
In addition, the Fest features the work of outstanding artists and craftspeople from both Ireland and the Hudson Valley.
There also is an interactive children's area featuring Old World toys, games, storytelling, crafts, and other activities. A wide variety of tempting food and refreshments from area restaurants and Irish products will be available.”
“This day of Irish Culture would not be possible without an annual grant from the Consulate General of Ireland New York through the Emigrant Support Program of Ireland’s Foreign Affairs Department,” said Fest chairman Dan Dennehy.
“The all-volunteer committee is composed of students earning community service time, local residents and the members of AOH and LAOH Division 18 Peekskill.
“For nine years now, this celebration of the best of Ireland and Irish America has been the official Irish kickoff to fall in the Hudson Valley.”
The Fest’s riverfront setting is easily accessible from New York City by taking Metro North’s Hudson Line to Peekskill.
The Fest’s website, www.hudsonvalleyirishfest.com, has full details and directions. More from Dan Dennehy, Fest Chairman at (914) 588-2710 or dandennehy@hotmail.com.
