Thankyou to all who helped make the 2008 such an outstanding success - we are planning for the 2009 event and look forward to seeing you all back again next year - June 5 - 8 - keep your eye on the web site for updates and application forms.
The National Celtic Festival is Australia's largest and most diverse celebration of Celtic culture. Celts from around Australia converge on Portarlington over the Long Week-end in June.
Thousands of festival-goers attended the 2008 Festival and there are plenty of reasons for its increasing popularity as a great festival:
The Music
From Friday night to Monday afternoon, festival-goers can enjoy Celtic music of the highest quality, from traditional to contemporary styles and everything in between. Enjoy music in large concert venues, wine bars and intimate acoustic venues. So whether you want to sit back with a glass of wine or dance to energetic Celtic Rock, there is something for everyone.
The Dance
If dancing is your passion, you will love what is on offer. Experienced tutors from across the nation will get your feet moving in the various Celtic styles - Irish, Welsh,Cornish, Breton, Scottish. .. and then bring your skills to the Ceili and dance to the best Ceili band in Australia!
The Workshops
If you want to play an instrument, listen to poetry, read dramatic verse, sing or simply just join in and see where it takes you, check out the range of workshops on offer for adults and kids.
The Sessions
Join great musicians over the weekend at the session bar. You never know whom you might share a tune with!
The Venues
Are cosy! Festival-goers can enjoy warm venues, a great pub with openfires, the wine bar, an heritage restaurant and themed bars where they can sit back and listen to great music all weekend. But don't get too settled because there is plenty happening outdoors as well.
The Markets
The undercover markets offer a range of Celtic goods, craft and foods to enjoy over the weekend. The markets will be operating all day Saturday, Sunday and Monday until mid afternoon - the market area is free.
Come long to the Village Stage which is located in the market area and get a taste of this years program - this area is also free and operates during the day on Saturday, Sunday and Monday. ( gold coin donation is appreciated )
The Setting
The festival settles into the township of Portarlington over the long weekend, where festival-goers are warmly welcomed. Portarlington is a seaside town offering amazing views across the bay to the You Yangs and the cityscape of Melbourne. All festival venues are in walking distance.
The Community
The people of Portarlington give the festival great support and our visitors a friendly welcome. You are sure to bump into a local whether they are volunteering, running local businesses or putting you up over the weekend.
Come and discover the National Celtic Festival 2009 - you won't be disappointed, in fact, you'll be back!
