St. Mary’s County, MD — The 45th Annual Celtic Festival is set to take place on April 27th at Jefferson Patterson Park and Museum, located on the scenic banks of the Patuxent River in Southern Maryland. This vibrant celebration aims to honor the rich cultural traditions of the seven Celtic nations through a diverse array of attractions including music, dance, food, and more, under the inviting call of bagpipes.
Visitors can expect a full day of entertainment with internationally recognized Celtic bands performing across multiple stages, offering a continuous showcase of music, dance, and jam sessions. The festival’s Clan Row will feature over 50 clans and societies ready to share knowledge about Celtic heritage. Additionally, the event will host Scottish/Irish country-dance performances, harp and Scottish fiddling, storytelling, historical displays, craft demonstrations, and living history reenactments, ensuring a comprehensive cultural experience.
The Celtic Marketplace will provide attendees with a selection of traditional and modern Celtic foods and gifts, contributing to the festival’s old-world ambiance. For families, the Celtic Kids’ Activities promise engaging entertainment, including Junior Scottish Highland Games, face-painting, and more. Competitions in piping, drumming, Highland dancing, athletics, and rugby are also scheduled throughout the day.
General Admission tickets must be pre-purchased and presented for scanning at the gate, with credit card sales available for gate purchases. Attendees are advised to prepare for entry lines and are reminded that no pets, outside alcohol, or cash sales will be permitted within the park during festival hours, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Among the performers, the Benfield Brass Band, a traditional British-style ensemble, will delight attendees with their brass and percussion instruments. The band boasts 40 volunteer members and is under the direction of Ray Ascione, a retired Navy Commander with a distinguished career in music. The band’s season includes performances at notable events and venues across the region.
For children and those young at heart, the festival offers Celtic-themed activities such as coloring pages, stickers, and rudimentary Bodhrán drumming. The celebration of Scottish Highland dancing, a competition solo dance form known for its combination of strength, agility, and Scottish spirit, will be a highlight for many. Information on participating in Highland dancing can be found through ScotDance USA.
The Southern Maryland Celtic Festival continues to serve as a beacon for those looking to explore or celebrate their Celtic roots, offering an immersive experience in Celtic culture and community spirit.
