BETHLEHEM, Pa. — A host of longtime favorites and emerging artists performing traditional music, pub tunes and Celtic rock will be the featured musicians at the 37th annual Celtic Classics, festival organizers announced Sunday.
Virtuoso musician and comedian Seamus Kennedy returns to the festival for the first time in three years, bringing his tribal, Scottish-inspired sound back to a festival that celebrates all things Irish, Scottish and Welsh, with Albanach bringing his own unique style to the festival.
The Celtic Classic is scheduled to take place Sept. 27-29 at the festival grounds near downtown Bethlehem.
“There’s a surprise every minute of the two-and-a-half-day weekend, packed with presentations of Celtic culture, from dancing and music to traditional competitions, talks, dining and shopping.”
Jane Ann Recker, Executive Director, Celtic Cultural Alliance
The festival is one of the largest Highland Games and Celtic festivals in North America, attracting over 200,000 visitors each year.
With five stages in total, downtown Bethlehem will be filled with the sounds of tin whistles, fiddles and, of course, bagpipes.
The 2024 entertainment lineup will range from traditional to Celtic rock to fusion and is “sure to get your feet stomping and dance a tune or two,” the Celtic Cultural Alliance said in a statement.
Also returning will be The Prodigals, with their strong Celtic rock vibe, and crowd favourite Emish, who will be returning for their final show before retirement.
Rounding out the line-up are popular local bands boasting a Celtic repertoire: Womer & Whitaker, Blackwater, On the Rush and Glengarry Boys.
And of course there will be Gerry Timlin, who has never missed a Celtic Classic since the inaugural year and will be making his 37th appearance at the festival.
“There will be surprises every minute of the two-and-a-half-day weekend,” said Jane Ann Recker, executive director of the Celtic Cultural Alliance.
“And there will be a packed presentation of Celtic culture, from dancing and music to traditional competitions, talks, food and shopping.”
“Thanks to the fantastic support we’ve received from the community and sponsors, this year’s festival is set to be one of the biggest celebrations of Celtic heritage whilst still being a free, family-friendly event.”
Check out the complete lineup here:
This year’s new artists include Allie the Piper, an award-winning piper who plays all genres of music, including heavy metal.
Conor Mallon comes from Ireland bringing his unique sound and Julian bagpipes.
The Byrne Brothers present an Irish-influenced, high energy, award-winning musical and dance show.
For more information about the Celtic Classic, directions, volunteer opportunities and other CCA events, visit www.celticfest.org
