By Mark Ambrogi
The 21st annual Indy Irish Fest will feature a new craft brew provider, new bands and the return of whiskey on site.
The Irish Fest is set for Sept. 15 to 18 at Military Park in Indianapolis. The Sept. 15 preview pub concert, from 5:30 to 10:30 p.m., will have free admission this year, as opposed to $5 in previous years. Those attending are encouraged to bring canned goods for a food bank. There will be two Celtic rock bands performing Sept. 15. Whiskey of the Damned will be making its first Fest appearance along with fan favorite The Fighting Jamesons.
Sun King Brewery is joining the festival as the official craft brewer provider and pints of its Ring of Dingle, an Irish stout, will be available for purchase for the first time at the event.
“There will be a craft beer tasting and food on site, so it will be neat way to start the weekend,” said Erin O’Rourke, the festival’s marketing manager.
Among the new bands are Led Farmers, a folk band from Ireland, and Gailfean, a group of trad musicians.
There will be presentations Sept. 17 and 18 marking the 100th anniversary of the 1916 Easter Rising by Tom Sweeney along with the duo of Brian Doherty and Kevin Evans. Another new band will be is a Celtic rock group, Chance the Arm.
O’Rourke said Tullamore DEW, an Irish whiskey, will be available Sept. 16 and 17 at the Tullamore bar.
“We haven’t had whiskey available for five or six years,” she said.
There will be games, storytelling, face painting and crafts for youngsters in the Wee Folk Area. Kids will compete Sept. 18 for the reddest hair, greenest eyes and most freckles.
Punch Burger, Pita Pit and Fat Dan’s Deli are new food vendors.
O’Rourke said there will be $5 early admission from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. Sept. 16. Tickets are $10 in advance and $15 at the gate for adults. Other discounts are available for those under 18. For more ticket and entertainment information, visit indyirishfest.com.
