St Paul Irish Music Fest

Another spectaular event which was probably driven mostly by the fact that Floggin Molly headlined on Friday and Saturday night. But for us the best part of the weekend was the performance of local band Wild Colonial Bhoys .
Fronted by Adam and Geno, and backed up with accomplished musicians on fiddle, drums and bass, these guys really are immersed in Irish culture and music. Rumour has it that Adam was even an International Observer during the birth pangs of the peace process in the North of Ireland. You can check them out for yourselves here and here. The Wild Colonial Bhoys (the band spelling of Bhoys is a hat tip to the Celtic supporters)have perfected their craft and seem to be ready to reap the rewards. These guys should be on stage at every major Irish music festival in North America as they easily and happily performed a flawless set for the huge and appreciative crowd that turned out in their native Minneapolis / St. Paul. You will most definately see more of this band as the cream always eventually rises to the top.

Dublin Ohio Irish Festival

Well this is a fantastic event. Set on extensive grounds with numerous (at least 6) stages this event really pleases the crowds with a wide range of Irish vendors, cultural events, lectures, exhibits and an entertainment line up that may be the best in the US. The weather cooperated this year which was great, last year lightning caused a temporary evacuation on Sunday.

Had a long chat with Chris Byrne and Rachael of Shanachai and the Unity Squad, great Irish performers and patriots. We later heard that Chris receltly completed his Masters degree and is now teaching a class in Criminal Law at a New York University. A multi talented guy indeed - one time Police Officer, musician, business man (owns his own pub), political guru and now a Professor. Well done Chris, now take a bow and get some rest.

We rate this as the best event in the US, are you familiar with this event? Let us know your thoughts.

Greater Hartford Irish Music Fest

This event was a pleasant suprise. Featuring: Hair of the Dog, Enter the Haggis, Brigids Cross and many more the organizers managed to put together quite an entertaining line up. We hope to go back up to this one next year.

Long Island Irish Festival - Calverton NY.

Organized by Charlie McKenna, this had to be one of the worst Irish festivals we have ever attended. Poor advertising, poor management and poor planning made this event a complete train wreck. In our opinion this "non event" is one to stay clear of in the future (if it ever even takes place again).
No more to be said really- a totally wasted weekend.

Chicago Irish Heritage Festival.

A fantastic event with some excellent entertainment. The line up included Gaelic Storm, Solas, The Tossers, Seven Nations, Makem and Spain Brothers, and The Young Dubliners. The huge crowds were treated to wonderful weather, fantastic food, brilliant beer and marvelous music. This event also offers indoor and outdoor options, with the old converted school containing bars, music, an Irish library on the third floor along with a small museum. This event and building is a credit to the Irish of Chicago, a great event definately worth taking the time to see when in the Chicago area.

Celtic Fling and Highland Games - PA.

This event was well attended but at $24.95 it is very expensive to get in. Once in the food and drinks tend to be on the expensive side. The long list of featured bands included Gaelic Storm and Scythian, both of which are good bands. Gaelic Storm in particular have developed a large and loyal following which is only to be expected given their consistantly good performances.

Were you there? Let us know what you thought.