There is something to experience for everyone at Irish Fest!
Our programming, entertainment lineup, & activities celebrate Irish and Celtic culture. We're proud of our fun, family friendly atmosphere in the beautiful setting of downtown Appleton. Whether it's your first time at Irish Fest or you're a returning Fest Goer, we welcome everyone!
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VIP Experience
Indulge in the ultimate festival experience! VIP passes are available online only starting June 18th and include:
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Exclusive access to a covered area reserved only for VIP passholders and special guests
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Front-row viewing area for an unobstructed stage view
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Complimentary food and non-alcoholic beverages to keep you fueled and refreshed
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Enjoy half-off select alcoholic beverages at our VIP bar
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Meet-and-greet opportunities with your favorite performers
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VIP only restrooms
Must be 21 years of age or older to purchase and use. Separate festival ticket is not required. Attendee will receive an E-ticket to present at the gate for festival entry. Any provided VIP credentials will be provided and must be worn at all times. Non-transferrable.
Treat yourself to the VIP treatment today! Available online through September 12th, at the gates only after.
Cultural Area
Open Saturday 10am - 6pm
Our Cultural Area, located inside the Fox Exhibition Expo connected to Jones Park, offers a variety of Irish and Celtic cultural lectures and demonstrations and more from authors, historians, professors, sports, and more.
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Irish Genealogist Dave Miller
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Travel representatives to help plan a trip to Ireland
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Celtic Canines (located in their own tent outside next to the Wee Ones Children's Are)
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Shamrock Club of NE Wisconsin
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Exhibits on loan from the Irish Consulate
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and more!
Cultural Stage Lineup
Saturday only
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10:15am Colm Keegan workshop
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11am Claire Kelly
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12pm The Diddley Idols
1pm 100 Years of Ireland-US Relations - Pádraig Manning, Vice Consul and Deputy Head of Mission at the Consulate General of Ireland, Chicago
2pm Little Hill (Claire Kelly & Friends)
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3pm Pat Byrne
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4pm Whiskey of the Damned acoustic set
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5pm the foxfire affair
Wee Ones Children's Area
Saturday 11am - 4pm
Kids can enjoy a variety of engaging cultural activities, crafts, games, and more - all for free!
Adult supervision required, some events scheduled. Sponsored by Fox Communities Credit Union.
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12:30pm & 3:30pm Irish storybook read-aloud
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1pm Irish Dance lessons with Schauer Irish Dance Academy
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2pm Irish Tin Whistle lesson and giveaway with a special guest instructor. The first 100 children interested in learning this popular Irish instrument will receive their own tin whistle to take home! Compliments of our friends at Heid Music.
Shopping
Browse and shop the retail area at Irish Fest! Our vendors feature fine Irish and Celtic gifts, souvenirs, and more. You'll be sure to find that special gift for someone or perhaps treat yourself to something, too.
Food and Drinks
Irish Fest features food vendors from the greater area to satisfy tastebuds for entire family. In addition to our food vendors, you can enjoy Irish faire at The Chipper, the official food booth of Irish Fest. Presenting Sponsor Ornua Ingredients will be also sampling products at their tent. Irish beverages are always served at our festival, too!
Get your mug on a fresh pint of Guinness. Located at the Matt Miller Pub at Irish Fest. Friday & Saturday 5:30pm - 7:30pm. Must be 21+ years of age.
New this year - visit the Tullamore D.E.W. lounge in the Cultural Area (in the expo center) for a relaxing place to relax and sip on the original triple blend whiskey, Tullamore D.E.W. Friday 4-8pm, Saturday 10am - 6pm. Must be 21+ years of age.
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Celtic Mass
Join us at St. Mary's Catholic Church on Saturday, September 14th at 4:30pm for a Celtic Mass.
St. Mary’s Church
312 South State Street
Appleton, WI
(just 3 blocks from the festival)
Special thanks to our friends at St. Mary Parish for their support and partnership.
