BELFAST -- Summer is here and with it comes the second annual Maine Celtic Celebration, held in Belfast on July 17th - 20th. The Maine Celtic Celebration is a three day, family oriented celebration of the rich Celtic heritage, culture and hospitality found along the coast of Maine. The Celebration takes place along the waterfront in Heritage Park, on the Common, at Steamboat Landing, and at the field behind the Waterfall Arts building.
On Thursday, July 17th, the Celebration kicks off with an evening fundraising event at the Boathouse, including food and live music.
Beginning at noon on Friday, July 18th, there is live Celtic music scheduled all afternoon and evening. Children's activities, a Celtic music workshop, a genealogy expert, and contests including the brand new Molly Malone Wheelbarrow Race are on the day's roster.
Saturday, July 19thbegins with a parade down High, Main, and Front Streets at 10 a.m.. At noon live Celtic music begins, and throughout the day, you can find, dance and weaving demonstrations, children's events, genealogy, Celtic instrument workshops, contests, dog events, Living Chess, and the Maine St Andrews Pipe Band. St Margaret's Church is hosting a Celtic High Tea from 11:00 am -3:00 pm. Don't miss the huge fireworks display over the Bay at 9:00 pm.
On Sunday, July 20th plans include a Kirkin (or Blessing) of the Tartans at The First Church, a Road Race that kicks off from the High School on Waldo Ave, Highland Games at the Athletic Field at the Waterfall Arts location, live entertainment, contests, story-telling, genealogy, Celtic instrument workshops, vendors and then the festival culminates in a Sessiun beginning at 3:30 pm (A Celtic music jam open to the public), on the Common.
Throughout Friday, Saturday, and Sunday there will be Celtic ware and food vendors, live animal exhibits and demonstrations, and audience participation contests and competitions, including Men in Kilts, the Cheese Roll, the mud flats tug-o'-war, and the Cod Toss Relay.
There is no admission charge to the shows, sporting events or workshops. This schedule is still subject to change. For more information go to our web page at www.mainecelticcelebration.com or call 207-338-2692.
Best regards,
Sue Schwan
Maine Celtic Celebration Board (2008)
