Australia’s biggest Celtic festival is back for the June long weekend, kicking off today in Portarlington.
The National Celtic Folk Festival (NCFF), running from today until Monday, June 9, features a huge lineup of local, national and international musical artists and a huge range of events and experiences featuring Celtic arts, sports and culture.
Four Irish acts – electric contemporary quartet Boxing Banjo, groundbreaking singer and multi-instrumentalist Caoimhín, singer-songwriter Gráinne Hunt and emerging traditional group Tulua – will all visit Australian shores for the first time through a partnership with Culture Ireland.
Festival director Una McAlinden said it was a “big honour” to welcome them to the country.
“I’m super excited about introducing these new Irish acts to Australia through this showcase,” Ms McAlinden said.
“They’re so diverse, and they’ve never been to Australia before, so it’s a bit of a surprise factor for everyone. To be able to introduce these four really high-calibre bands… for us, really enhances the festival program.”
Another centrepiece of the festival is the inclusion of renowned Irish chef Declan McGovern, who will showcase a blend of traditional Irish cuisine and fresh local produce at a special event hosted by celebrity chef Simon Toohey in the festival’s Club Room on Sunday evening.
For sports fans, the Heavy Games National Championships will feature displays of raw power and skill, while Geelong and Melbourne will battle for the first time at the NCFF in the Ultimate Hurling Clash.
Steeped in tradition, the beautifully crafted St Ayles Skiffs will highlight the rich history of Scottish coastal communities, while the iconic Highland cattle will charm and delight festival goers of all ages.
With traditional ceremonies, workshops and masterclasses, dancing, pipes and drums, theatre and visual arts, the festival’s program is packed to bursting in a way not seen since before the global pandemic.
“It feels like, finally, we’re presenting a festival that’s pre-COVID standard,” Ms McAlinden said.
“We’re back with a brand new energy this year. We’re always keen to program across the arts, but I think this year it’s really strong across lots of areas. It’s exciting to have all these people be part of it, so we’re pumped.”
Visit nationalcelticfestival.com for tickets and more information.
