The 15th Hudson Valley Irish Fest is set for Saturday, September 28 At Riverfront Park in Peekskill, Westchester County, New York. The Fest takes place, rain or shine, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Voluntary entrance is through the main gate only with a suggested donation is $10 per person. Ages 12 and under are Free. No coolers or pets are permitted.
A community-based, all-volunteer, and not-for-profit cultural 501C Charitable trust and event, the Fest was established in 2009 to celebrate the rich Irish-American heritage in the Hudson Valley.
Dan Dennehy, founding chair, states: "We plan year-round for our Riverside celebration of Irish and Irish American culture in the Hudson Valley. The Fest, Irish Center, and Library continue to provide high quality, affordable entertainment, educational and musical events."
The Fest will include a 9/11 commemoration which this year is a tribute to Tim Murphy and Scott Mettey, who, according to a release, were both tireless supporters of the Fest.
The Fest features, among other attractions, the Jack McAndrew Memorial Traditional Tent under the coordination of Stephen Gara. Recording artists such as Mary Courtney, Donie Carroll, and many more renowned traditional Irish musicians are lined up to perform. 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 John Kearns with best-selling authors, historians, poets, storytellers, and historical displays on hand to regale Fest attendees.
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.
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 Westchester County Board of Legislators helps the Fest every year and the Consulate General of Ireland in New York assists with an annual grant from the Emigrant Support Program of the Foreign Affairs Department, noted Dan Dennehy.
Fest attendees are encouraged to take MTA Metro-North's Hudson Line to Peekskill train station though organizers say ample parking is available in the area around the park.
More at http://www.hvif.org
