The 28th Chesapeake Celtic Festival will be October 7 & 8 at Furnace Town Living Heritage Village.
Named a beloved Eastern Shore tradition by the Salisbury Daily Times, the Chesapeake Celtic Festival has become a favorite with local residents and also a draw for tourists.
Festival founder and producer, Jeanne du Nord, says, “There is entertainment for all ages. There will be at least 3-5 activities going on at any one time. Over the years we have learned to keep the favorites that people expect and add new and different acts.”
Tucked away in the ancient and vast Pocomoke Forest, Furnace Town is sealed away from time. When the Chesapeake Celtic Festival transforms it each fall, the Living Heritage Village emerges from the mist like the legendary Brigadoon.
In addition to the Ocean City Pipe and Drum Band, three other bands will keep the toes tapping to the rhythms of Ireland, Scotland, Wales, Cornwall, the Isle of Man, Asturias, Galicia and Brittany. These bands are Moch Preyderi, Iona, and Pickin’ and Grinnin’. A special feature this year will be the children’s show that Pickin’ and Grinnin’ will stage in addition to their regular set.
There will be parades, bagpipes, musical groups, dancing, comedy, storytelling, animals, genealogy, clans, athletics, re-enactment groups, martial arts, craft demonstrations, cultural presentations, Flowers of the Forest Remembrance, A Celtic church service on Sunday, Celtic wares, imported beers and historic ales, wine tasting , whiskey tasting, and Celtic and Chesapeake Culinary Delights PLUS new surprises that are still being added. Visit celticfest.net for details and updates. Come feel the magic!
Furnace Town is Handicap Accessible and there is plenty of free parking.
Hours are 11 – 5 each day. Daily admission is $15.00 age 19 and over; Age 4 – 18 $5.00;
Age 3 and under FREE; Military (retired and current) $5.00.