The Almonte Celtfest is an annual celebration that brings the magic of Celtic culture to life. Scheduled for July 5-7, 2024, the 28th edition promises a weekend filled with traditional music, dance, and community spirit. Whether you are a longtime fan of Celtic traditions or new to the genre, the festival offers a welcoming and enriching experience for all.
Events
The festivities kick off on Friday, July 5, with a ticketed opening night featuring performances by Newfoundland’s Rum Ragged and special guest Mariner’s Curse, starting at 7 pm. Saturday, July 6, sees the main stage at Gemmill Park hosting a variety of acts from 12 pm to 10 pm, including local favorites like Valley Voices of Almonte and headliners such as The Fitzgeralds. Workshops, children's activities in the Lil Celtz Zone, and numerous buskers performing around downtown Almonte throughout the day. On Sunday, July 7, the festival concludes with a Fiddle Mass at 10 am, followed by more performances on the main stage from 12 pm to 6 pm.
Notable Performers
This year's lineup features a diverse group of performers, each bringing their unique style to the festival. David Ascroft, a multi-instrumentalist, will showcase a variety of Celtic tunes. Laurie Telgen, known for her historical costumes and versatile performances, will also be present. Clarissa Fortin, a music teacher with a passion for traditional Celtic music, will perform, as will Heather Flipsen, a talented fiddler and step-dancer. The Barrow Gang Buskers, known for their energetic street performances, and Canadian troubadour Doug Smith, will add to the vibrant atmosphere. Cattail Creek, a band that blends East Coast folk with classic Celtic tunes, and Victoria Goodman, a classical violinist and Celtic fiddle player, will round out the performances.
Tickets
The opening night, featuring Rum Ragged and Mariner’s Curse, is a ticketed event with regular tickets priced at $30, while children 12 and under can attend for free. General admission for the rest of the festival is free, thanks to the support of local sponsors and donations.
Location and Infrastructure
Gemmill Park, the festival's venue, is located in the heart of Almonte, Ontario. Just 33 miles (53 km) southwest of Ottawa, Almonte is a 42-minute drive from the capital, making it easily accessible for visitors from nearby cities. The park itself serves as a natural amphitheater, providing an ideal setting for live performances. Almonte is part of Mississippi Mills, a municipality known for its scenic beauty and historic charm. The nearby town center of Mississippi Mills is just a short drive away, offering additional amenities and attractions for festival-goers. Visitors can explore the town’s historic sites and enjoy the picturesque scenery of the Mississippi River.
History
The event's history stems from 1997: Driven by the love of all things Celtic and inspired by some revival of Celtic music through Riverdance, Brian and Dan O'Connell, along with Terry Currie, decided to throw a theme-dedicated revelry and assemble all up-and-coming artists in the community. The main aim of the Almonte Celtfest was to bring forgotten Celtic culture to everyone.
