The sounds, flavors and traditions of Ireland are headed back to Anne Arundel County, and this year, there’s even more to celebrate.
The Annapolis Irish Festival returns to the Anne Arundel County Fairgrounds beginning Friday, May 29. Previously a one-day event, the festival has grown in popularity and will expand to two days this year.
The festival will bring Irish culture to the local community with live music, dancing, athletic events, contests, food and family-friendly activities. Irish dance troupes of all ages will perform on the Heritage Stage, while the Guinness Mile and Highland Games will showcase athletic competition. Guests can also take part in whiskey tastings, and festival contests will include Best Legs in Kilts and Best Redhead. For children, activities will include a bounce house, obstacle course and more.
Live music will run throughout the festival. On Friday, Dublin 5 will open the show from 5:30 to 6:30 PM, followed by Carbon Leaf from 7 to 9 PM. Saturday’s lineup begins with Chesapeake Caledonian Pipes and Drums at 11 AM, with several bands performing throughout the day before Gaelic Storm takes the stage at 7 PM.
There are currently five confirmed food vendors. Aunt Titty’s will offer wings, cheesesteaks, sandwiches, burgers and sides. Hot & Fresh Grill, whose motto is “Food made with passion,” will serve Greek and Mediterranean staples such as gyros, spanakopita, kebabs with rice and grape leaves, along with items including Irish pasties, potato farls, corn dogs and fried Oreos. D’Liche will offer Southern comfort food, including fried fish, beef ribs, pork chops, wings, meatloaf and baked chicken, with platters served with cornbread and two sides. O’Dells will serve American classics such as burgers, chicken sandwiches, chicken tenders and salad. Maryland Brat & Butcher Co. will offer several varieties of sausage, seasonal specials, smoked sausages and sandwiches.
General admission tickets are $31.75 for Friday and $37.52 for Saturday. A two-day general admission ticket is $66.41. VIP admission is $106.83 for Friday, $164.58 for Saturday and $222.33 for a two-day ticket. VIP tickets include access to a designated VIP area with free beer, wine and soda, parking for both days and VIP restrooms. Children 12 and under are free but must have a ticket and be accompanied by an adult. Ticket availability is limited, and all sales are final and nonrefundable.
Coolers and outside food are not permitted, but guests will have several food vendors to choose from. Camping chairs and low chairs are allowed, and additional seating will be available. Pets are not permitted on the fairgrounds.
Whether you come for the music, the dancing, the food or the kilts, the Annapolis Irish Festival offers a full weekend of celebration right here in Anne Arundel County.
The Real Mom May Recap