The Hudson Valley Irish Fest returns to Peekskill's Riverfront Green Park this Saturday, September 25.
The Fest will run 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.
Said a release: 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, stated: "We plan year-round for our Riverside celebration of Irish and Irish American culture in the Hudson Valley. After a break in 2020 due to Covid restrictions, the Fest, Irish Center, and Library continue to provide high quality, affordable entertainment, educational and musical events."
As part of the Fest, the Jack McAndrew Memorial Traditional Tent will feature Irish recording artists such as Mary Courtney, Donie Carroll, and many more renowned traditional Irish musicians. The Clan Na hÉireann School of Irish Dance Tent will feature talented local Irish dancers.
The spoken word tent features the Irish American Writers & Artists, is moderated by author John Kearns, and will be filled 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, will present a unique interactive Children's Area featuring costumes, storytelling, crafts, and other activities. Food trucks and refreshments from area restaurants and Irish products will be on site.
"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 New York assists with an annual grant from the Emigrant Support Program of the Foreign Affairs Department," said Dan Dennehy.
Visitors are encouraged to take MTA Metro-North's Hudson Line to Peekskill train station, immediately adjacent to Riverfront Green. Ample free parking is available.
The Fest's website, www.hudsonvalleyirishfest.com and its Facebook page offer details and directions to the Fest, as well as many pictures of past events.
For more information about the Hudson Valley Irish Fest contact Cathal McGreal, Hudson Valley Irish Fest chair, at cathalmcgreal@mac.com.
