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We took a visit to Scotland & other Celtic Nations without the long flights at the 18th Annual Mid-Maryland Celtic Festival! This family friendly annual festival is put on by the St. Andrew’s Society of Mid-Maryland and celebrates Celtic culture and heritage all day long. There is more to the rich culture and history of Celtic people than green beer and lucky charms. So don’t waste your Irish for a day on St. Paddys. If you want to enjoy all our rich culture and history has to offer, the Annual Mid-Maryland Celtic Festival is the best place to start!
Our lasses love Irish dance so we spent a lot of our time at the dancer’s stage. Several dance groups showcased traditional Irish and Scottish dance. Our friends over at Hurley School of Irish Dance had everyone on their feet. Children were invited on stage to learn some traditional steps with Granfling School of Highland Dance. The final performance was Scottish Ceilidh Dancing, open to everyone. There were also two stages filled with Celtic rock, acoustic music and traditional songs. There is nothing like the sound of bagpipes filling the air with the bagpipe and drum bands all in kilts. We also loved the Massed Bands Parade! It took us right back to living in Edinburgh, Scotland.
The Highland Games are a traditional test of strength and stamina. The hillside is the best place to sit to view the skill and strength of the contenders. Your wee ones have a chance to try their hands at the highland games in the kids area with a version of sheaf toss and caber toss. The Kids Bairn has a schedule of events lasting all day. Highlights included Face Painting, Rugby Demonstrations, Inflatable Obstacle Course, meeting Frederick Keys Keyote, Martial Arts Demonstration, Kids Performances, Magic shows and meeting Mackenzie Caboose.
The Celtic marketplace has a great selection of unique gifts at Scottish prices. You can find the family tartan, adorn yourself in celtic jewelry or bring home shortbread for tea time. There was even a booth offering the most fancy braids we had ever seen.
Celtic food like Haggis, bangers & mash, Scotch Eggs and the like will satisfy your Celtic food cravings. There are whisky and beer tastings, but don’t forget the mead! The food and culture celebrated at the festival may have you wondering about your celtic roots. The Clan Village has everything you need to research your Celtic heritage and find information on your clan.
Don’t worry, there is more family friendly Celtic fun!
Ceilidh – September 29th, 2018
Hogmanay – December 31st, 2018
Burns Supper – February 23rd, 2019
Saint Andrew’s Society of Mid-Maryland website has information about upcoming Events and the benefits of Membership, which is open to everyone to join.
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