The Marin Irish Festival is back in Marin County, returning May 16–17 to Lagoon Park at the Marin County Fairgrounds in San Rafael.
This Beltane-inspired celebration of Irish culture brings six stage areas, traditional music and dance, storytelling, and family-friendly activities to the heart of the North Bay.
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Locals from San Anselmo to Novato and beyond gather for a festive weekend on the waterfront.
What to Expect at the Marin Irish Festival
Lagoon Park, set along the scenic edge of San Rafael, sets the stage for a rich Irish heritage program.
It’s more than just a concert series—think full cultural immersion.
Attendees from Fairfax, Mill Valley, and Sausalito will find something for every age, from timeless tunes to hands-on crafts.
Playful, Beltane-inspired rituals add a spark of whimsy for families and friends.
Live Performances Across Six Stages
Fans of Irish music can catch a broad lineup across multiple stages.
Neighbors from Corte Madera and Larkspur pour into the fairgrounds for a day of song, rhythm, and storytelling.
- The Black Brothers and The Black Irish Band headline select stages, bringing spirited Irish tunes—both traditional and contemporary.
- Storytelling corners and a free children’s game area invite families to explore folklore and enjoy hands-on fun together.
Dance, Ceili, and Open Sessions
The festival isn’t just about watching—you’re invited to join in.
Whether you’re a seasoned step dancer or just curious, open set-dancing sessions welcome everyone, and you might stumble into an impromptu jam with visiting musicians.
- CeÃlà on the Lake Championships, run with the Jackie Flynn Irish Dance Academy, will crown a Champion of Champions.
- Informal seisiúns at the Bearded Goose Pub keep things lively, with musicians trading tunes and stories well into the evening.
Cultural Experiences and Learning
Marin’s Irish culture stretches beyond the stage.
The festival hosts exhibits and markets that bring a slice of Ireland to San Rafael, with rare imports and artifacts sure to intrigue both longtime locals and curious visitors.
- Keepers of the Steps exhibit offers an inside look at traditional Irish dance and its history.
- The United Irish Cultural Center marketplace features Irish goods and imports you won’t easily find elsewhere in Marin.
- A beginner Irish language workshop at the Poet’s Corner teaches essential phrases, plus a poem or song to try out your new skills.
Vendors, Food, and Libations
You don’t have to go far to sample Irish fare or celebrate with a pint.
The Marin Irish Festival brings together local flavors and international favorites in a festival atmosphere that San Rafael and San Anselmo folks know well.
- Over 40 craft vendors offer Irish goods and crafts—perfect for gifts or a keepsake from your Marin adventure.
- Traditional Irish foods, pints of Guinness, local ales, and hard ciders flow at two on-site pubs.
Practical Details and How to Plan Your Visit
The event runs May 16–17 in San Rafael, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily. You’ll find it at Lagoon Park inside the Marin County Fairgrounds.
Single-day tickets cost $30 for adults and $15 for kids ages 5–11. Two-day passes come in at $50 for adults and $25 for children, and parking’s free on site.
Want full schedules, parking info, or a list of vendors? Head over to marinirishfestival.com for all the details.
This festival feels like a staple for Marin County folks who want to celebrate community and Irish culture without venturing far. From downtown San Rafael to nearby spots like Corte Madera and Tiburon, the Marin Irish Festival brings a weekend packed with music, dance, and a bit of learning, all in a modern, family-friendly vibe.
Here is the source article for this story: Irish Festival Returns For Weekend Of Music, Dance And Culture In Marin County
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