Portarlington’s National Celtic Folk Festival (NCFF) is set to reach new heights this June, with a series of new alliances with organisations around Australia and the world.
The festival, held from June 6 to 9, revealed last week it would partner with Culture Ireland, renowned Irish chef Declan McGovern, the Heavy Games National Championship and a range of local producers.
The new partners will join regular attractions such as the St Ayles Skiff Scottish wooden boats, Highland cattle, Irish hurling and more than 30 musical artists to deliver a richer palette of experiences for festival goers than ever before.
Through Culture Ireland, the Emerald Isle’s peak culture and arts promotion body, the NCFF will present groundbreaking Gaelic music producer and singer Caoimhín, singer-songwriter Gráinne Hunt, whiz kids Tulua and energetic folk band Boxing Banjo to Australian audiences for the very first time.
Chef McGovern, who focuses on traditional Irish cuisine, local produce and sustainability, will hold tasty workshops and informative masterclasses throughout the weekend.
NCFF director Una McAlinden said while the partnerships were a significant development, the festival was focused on retaining its community feel and getting better rather than bigger.
“For us, it’s all about the connection to culture and people,” Ms McAlinden said.
“We are about the community, supporting people and groups that are passionate about cultural endeavours… and putting a spotlight on the region.
“The unique thing about our event is that it is for all people, all ages… it appeals to young children, up to the older generation in families. It creates this real sense of belonging amongst everyone.”
Visit nationalcelticfestival.com/artists for tickets and more information.
Matt Hewson
