The 6th Annual Havertown Irish Festival is set to be an exciting day filled with music, dance, crafts, and community fun. Scheduled for Saturday, June 8, 2024, from 12:00 PM to 8:00 PM, this free event will take place at the Haverford School District Admin Building, located at 50 E. Eagle Road, Havertown, PA 19083.
Festival Highlights
Live Music and Performances: The festival features live music on two outdoor stages. The Main Stage will showcase top Irish bands from the US and Ireland, including the all-sister band from Donegal, “Screaming Orphans,” award-winning group “Runa,” the “John Byrne Band” from Dublin, and New York-based “Sheridan Rúitín.” Additionally, the Eagle Stage will offer an acoustic mix with artists like Michael Tearson, Kate Assirin, and more. Irish dancers from the Emerald Isle Dance Academy will also perform.
Crafter Village: From noon to 5:00 PM, explore the Crafter Village featuring over 70 handmade crafters and artisans. This is a perfect opportunity to find unique, locally-made items and support small businesses.
Food and Drinks: Enjoy a variety of food vendors offering delicious options, and visit Kelly’s Pub Beer Garden for a selection of beers and seltzers. Please note that outside alcohol is not permitted, and you must be 21 or older to consume alcohol within the designated areas. There are also local bars and restaurants in the area.
Family-Friendly Activities: The festival is designed for all ages, with a Kid’s Fun Zone providing activities for children. There will also be performances of the US and Ireland national anthems and a special bagpipe performance by Brian Fox.
Parking and Accessibility: Free parking is available in the neighborhoods around the event site, with additional parking at Grace Chapel. Rideshare options like Uber and Lyft are recommended to avoid long walks.
Additional Information
Donations and Support: The festival is organized by Kelly Music for Life, a non-profit dedicated to improving communities through music and arts. Donations to support the festival are tax-deductible and can be made via credit card, PayPal, or Venmo.
This year’s Havertown Irish Festival promises to be a vibrant celebration of Irish culture and community spirit. Whether you’re looking to enjoy traditional Irish music, shop for unique crafts, or spend a fun day out with family and friends, this event has something for everyone.
For more details and updates, visit the official festival page on the Kelly Center website
Artist Profiles for the Havertown Irish Festival 2024
Screaming Orphans
The Screaming Orphans are an all-sister band from Donegal, Ireland, known for their blend of pop rock with traditional Irish music. Growing up in a musical family, the Diver sisters—Gráinne, Joan, Angela, and Marie Thérèse—have been performing together since childhood. Their energetic performances and unique harmonies have earned them international acclaim. They have collaborated with notable artists such as Sinead O’Connor and Joni Mitchell and have toured extensively in Europe and North America. Their music often features a mix of original songs and traditional Irish folk tunes, making them a favorite at festivals worldwide.
Runa
Runa is an award-winning Celtic roots band that fuses traditional Irish and Scottish music with modern folk and Americana influences. Founded in 2008, the band includes musicians from the US and Ireland, known for their innovative arrangements and dynamic performances. Their lineup features vocalists and instrumentalists skilled in playing the fiddle, bodhran, guitar, and mandolin. Runa has released several critically acclaimed albums and won multiple Irish and international music awards. Their music is celebrated for its lyrical storytelling and rich, intricate harmonies.
John Byrne Band
Hailing from Dublin, Ireland, John Byrne brings his Irish folk roots to the American music scene with his band. The John Byrne Band blends traditional Irish folk music with contemporary influences, creating a sound that is both authentic and fresh. John Byrne is known for his powerful vocals and poignant songwriting, which often reflect themes of identity, migration, and the human experience. The band’s performances are noted for their emotional depth and engaging storytelling, making them a standout act in both folk and Celtic music circles.
Sheridan Rúitín
Sheridan Rúitín, based in Congers, NY, was formed during the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic in a converted garage pub. The band members include Billy Houlihan on banjo, his cousin Shannon Cokeley on guitar and vocals, Johnny Houlihan on accordion, and Tommy on bodhran. Their music features traditional Irish ballads, rebel songs, and lively jigs and reels, creating a vibrant, authentic Irish pub atmosphere. Despite their relatively recent formation, Sheridan Rúitín has quickly become known for their spirited performances and strong connection to Irish musical traditions.
Michael Tearson
Michael Tearson is a veteran musician and DJ, known for his eclectic acoustic performances. His repertoire includes a mix of folk, rock, and blues, often infused with a touch of Irish influence. Tearson’s deep voice and thoughtful interpretations of classic songs make his performances a unique and memorable experience. He has a long history in the music industry, including hosting radio shows that spotlight a wide range of musical genres.
Kate Assirin
Kate Assirin is an acoustic artist whose performances blend soulful vocals with intricate guitar work. Her music spans various genres, including folk, indie, and pop, with a strong emphasis on lyrical storytelling. Assirin’s clear, emotive voice and her ability to connect with audiences through her songs have made her a favorite at acoustic stages and intimate venues.
Shannon Daly
Shannon Daly is a multi-talented artist known for her powerful voice and dynamic stage presence. Performing both the US and Ireland national anthems at the festival, Daly is celebrated for her versatility in musical styles, ranging from traditional Irish folk to contemporary pop. Her performances often include a mix of original compositions and beloved Irish classics, showcasing her wide vocal range and expressive delivery..
These artists represent a diverse array of talents, bringing rich Irish cultural heritage to life through their music. Attendees of the Havertown Irish Festival can look forward to a day filled with captivating performances and vibrant community spirit.