Celtic Junction Arts Center has taken the wraps off an extraordinary concert series showcasing world-renowned Celtic and folk artists at both its intimate St. Paul venue and the historic Pantages Theatre.
This ambitious programming brings internationally acclaimed musicians to Minnesota audiences, promoting traditional and contemporary Celtic arts across the Twin Cities. As Minnesota's Irish Cultural Center, CJAC continues to expand its impact by connecting Minnesotan audiences with the finest Celtic performing artists in the world.
The stellar line-up set to brighten the mid-winter gloom includes:
The Byrne Brothers in Concert
January 17, 7:30 PM - 9:30 PM
Celtic Junction Arts Center
Tickets: $20-$25
The Byrne Brothers, a family band from Donegal, Ireland, deliver electrifying performances blending traditional Irish music and dance. Featuring brothers Luca (20), Finn (18), and Dempsey (15) alongside their father Tommy, this talented group is a sensation in the Irish music world. Since moving to the U.S. in 2018 to perform at Walt Disney World, they have impressed audiences with their boundless energy, humor, and masterful musicianship, earning accolades like Rising Stars of the Year from American Celtic Radio and the Award for Outstanding Music Ensemble by Young Artist Academy©.
David Francey in Concert
February 8, 7:30 PM - 9:30 PM
Celtic Junction Arts Center
Tickets: $25
Scottish-born Canadian folk artist David Francey is renowned for his poetic storytelling and authentic voice. Drawing on his years as a carpenter and laborer, Francey’s songs offer vivid glimpses into the lives of everyday people. With thirteen albums, four Juno Awards, and international acclaim, his intimate performances combine wry humor, heartfelt stories, and beautiful melodies, making him a beloved voice in contemporary folk music.
New video from the new album "The Broken Heart Of Everything" - https://t.co/qiXLJe0p51
— David Francey (@DavidFrancey) April 20, 2018
Solas 30th Anniversary Tour
February 23, 7:30 PM - 10:00 PM
Pantages Theatre
Tickets: $56-$74
Celebrate three decades of musical innovation as Solas returns to the stage for their 30th-anniversary tour. Known as “the finest Celtic ensemble this country has ever produced” (The Boston Globe), this legendary group is credited with revolutionizing Irish traditional music. Their return after an eight-year hiatus promises an evening of unparalleled musicianship and artistry, featuring acclaimed singer Nuala Kennedy and revisiting beloved songs and fan favorites from their groundbreaking twelve albums. The Solas/30 tour features founding members Seamus Egan (flute, banjo, mandolin, whistle) and Winifred Horan (fiddle), joined by John Williams (concertina, accordion), Alan Murray (guitar, bouzouki), and the acclaimed singer Nuala Kennedy (vocals, flute).
Lúnasa at The Pantages
March 14, 7:30 PM - 10 PM
Pantages Theatre
Tickets: Available Soon
Often referred to as the “Irish music dream team,” Lúnasa has redefined Irish traditional music with dynamic arrangements and quick-witted stage presence. Dubbed “The Hottest Irish Acoustic Band on the Planet” (The Irish Voice), their concerts are a masterclass in rhythm, depth, and energy. Featuring celebrated musicians such as Trevor Hutchinson (The Waterboys), Sean Smyth (Donal Lunny’s Coolfin), Kevin Crawford (Moving Cloud), Ed Boyd (Flook), and Cillian Vallely (Riverdance, Bruce Springsteen), Lúnasa’s performances combine technical brilliance with a vibrant, upbeat atmosphere that keeps audiences coming back for more.
Karan Casey: The Women We Will Rise IRISH MUSIC ICON: IRISH MUSIC ICON: Karan Casey at The Celtic Junction
March 16, 7:30 PM - 10 PM
Celtic Junction Arts Center
Tickets: $25-$30
Renowned Irish singer-songwriter Karan Casey presents The Women We Will Rise, a concert version of her striking song cycle exploring women’s roles in Ireland’s history. Known for her stirring vocals and fearless approach to social justice songs, Casey has redefined traditional Irish music with her modern, universal perspective. Beyond her eleven albums and extensive touring, she is also a founder of FairPlé, an organization advocating for gender equality in Irish music. This performance promises a thought-provoking and deeply moving evening of song and storytelling.
"This landmark concert series provides Minnesota audiences the opportunity to experience contemporary and traditional Irish music alongside powerful storytelling through song," said Celtic Junction Director Natalie O'Shea. "With concerts at The Celtic Junction in St. Paul and the Pantages Theatre in Minneapolis, CJAC continues to showcase master artists, from established icons to the next generation of tradition keepers."
