Irish Fest puts spotlight on Donegal and Derry

The largest Irish festival in the world is getting underway in the US today until 21st August, with the North West being well represented at the Milwaukee Irish Fest in the form of a Derry Donegal Showcase.

Irish Fest boasts of being the largest Irish cultural festival in North America, and if there's something Irish to be had, witnessed or learned, there's probably a booth or space somewhere on the grounds for it. Irish dance, storytelling, poetry, food and sports such as currach races and hurling are represented.

The showcase is being supported by Failte Ireland North West. There are also representatives from key statutory agencies , business persons, musicians, artists and performers, with the intention being to promote the North West, tell the region’s unique story, and explore its US connections.

Thjs Derry Donegal Showcase explores the Columban Exhibition, telling the story of St Colmcille and how he left Derry and Donegal to bring Christianity to the wider world. 

There will also be genealogists there to help people trace their family tree and guide them through emigration records.

A Gaeltacht Tent will promote the Irish language and promote summer schools in Donegal, and a special film tent will showcase opportunities for filmmaking in the region, we well as showing films and animations which were made in Donegal and Derry.

Donegal’s Mayor Noel Mc Bride says "it’s vital that the county and the region is represented at events such as this".

For more information on this festival click here. 

Image Caption: Gaelic Storm will perform on the Miller Lite stage at Irish Fest, which runs Thursday through Sunday at Maier Festival Park.