New Fest Takes Place September 13-15 in Canby, OR
Canby, OR – Pack your kilts, gather your clan, and dance the night away! Wandering in Time Productions and the Washington Renaissance Arts & Education Society, the noted Pacific Northwest event team behind the Washington Midsummer Renaissance Faire and the Oregon Renaissance Faire, are thrilled to announce the initial lineup for Oregon Celtic Festival 2024! The new fest occurs at the Clackamas County Fairgrounds, 694 NE 4th Avenue, Canby, OR, September 13-15. Tickets are available at orcelticfest.com/ticket-info/.
Festival founder David Day notes, “We are thrilled to feature an extraordinary lineup of Celtic musicians from around the world, ranging across the spectrum of genres and giving us a glimpse into both the traditional and contemporary sounds of modern Celtic music. From rock to pop, jam, bluegrass, and even electronic influences, there is something for all musical tastes at the Oregon Celtic Festival.”
Headliners for this family-friendly 3-day music festival include:
The Elders remain one of the top Celtic-rock bands in the US after 26 years because of their timeless sound. Their passion, great melodies, unique harmonies, unparalleled musicianship, and strong songwriting keep them connected. Known for their unique storytelling, full of love, loyalty, and Irish feistiness, their ability to bring together elements both musically progressive and rooted in tradition has won them a broad international fanbase and critical acclaim.
Screaming Orphans is a chart-topping all-sister Celtic folk and pop band from Donegal, Ireland. They are known worldwide for their award-winning sound, which combines original pop songs with a unique take on traditional Irish music. From an early age, the Diver sisters entertained international audiences around Ireland, accompanying their mother, legendary céilí singer Kathleen Fitzgerald. The sisters’ trademark spine-tingling four-part harmony, instrumental mastery, and highly energized performances take audiences on an exhilarating and emotional musical journey.
Alasdair Fraser is “the Michael Jordan of Scottish fiddling” with a concert and recording career spanning 30+ years, a long list of awards and accolades, including induction into the Scottish Traditional Music Hall of Fame, radio and television credits, and feature performances on top movie soundtracks including Titanic. He will take the stage with many Friends at this year’s festival, including his son, Galen Fraser, who is also on this year’s lineup as one half of San Miguel Fraser – a dynamic duo that combines dynamic fiddling and string arrangements with the soaring, life-celebrating singing of the other half of the duo – Maria San Miguel.
Tempest is celebrating 36 years of Celtic Rock! Formed in 1988, they deliver a globally renowned hybrid of high-energy Folk Rock, fusing Irish reels, Scottish ballads, Norwegian influences, and other world music elements.
Wake the Dead is a romp that flows seamlessly from rock grooves to hot Irish reels and from haunting airs to achingly beautiful melodies familiar to Deadheads everywhere. Seven of the best-known and most respected players in the West come together to create jams that keep the tie-dye swirling and vocal harmonies that float like clouds. These are worlds meshing, coalescing creating a whole new realm of possibility, true to the spirits of the Grateful Dead and the eternally hopeful Celts.
Other performing artists continue the who’s who of the top Celtic acts touring today, including Reverie Road, The Jeremiahs, TRÚ, Hanneke Cassel Trio, Colin Cotter & Sumaia Jackson, Elias Alexander, Adams, Martin & Linahon, Tradmill, and The Unipiper!
Festival founder Tracy Nietupski adds, “We can’t wait to welcome everyone to the inaugural Oregon Celtic Festival! Prepare for an unforgettable weekend brimming with enchanting music, spirited dance, and delectable food and drink. Tap your toes, lift a glass, and revel with us at the Pacific Northwest’s premiere Celtic music celebration!”
In addition to the music, guests can visit the “Fairy Realm,” home to children’s events and activities designed to be an experience for kids and kids-at-heart. Hosted by the Wyldewood Fae, it is home to costumed fairies and many magical experiences, including bubbles, crafting, songs, games, storytelling, and more!
A bustling marketplace filled with merchant and artisan vendors will showcase their unique crafts and wares, while a diverse selection of food vendors will offer delicious Celtic fare and modern treats. The Oregon Celtic Festival encourages camping on-site in classic West Coast Festival style, with tent and RV options available.
For Celtic music and culture fans who are 21+, the festival also offers an add-on experience—the “Bard’s Tour of Whiskey” tasting event. A connoisseur will guide guests through a collection of global whiskeys, and all participants will receive a commemorative whiskey glass and light snacks to accompany the tasting!
The new Oregon Celtic Festival invites Celtic music fans, families, and festival aficionados to the beautiful Clackamas County Fairgrounds from September 13 to 15 for this music-forward Celtic jamboree. Tickets are available at orcelticfest.com/ticket-info/.
In closing, Tracy notes, “Set in the mystical pine forest of Oregon, our festival offers a unique blend of breathtaking setting, world-class performances, and family-friendly atmosphere. It’s the perfect destination for a fall adventure in the Pacific Northwest.”