IRISHFEST – BIGGEST MUSIC LINE UP, LARGEST TOAST FOR PAT STEPHENS

Irishfest La Crosse returns with live music, food, beverages, Irish games and more August 7-9 at the Downtown Festgrounds! This will be the first festival since our community lost Pat Stephens, lead founder of Irishfest, all-around great guy, and endless do-gooder. His daughter, Kelley Bahr, now has the honor, and massive task, of being the president of the festival. She stopped in to talk about the huge music line-up, activities for the Wee Folk, and the “Greenest Toast” planned for her dad Saturday night.

Katie Crowley came in to talk about the Highland Games and Tug of War contests, and shared how to get your kiddos in on the fun!

Delight in the Wee folk area, where the little ones can enjoy Irish dance lessons, sheep shearing, songs, storytelling, games, and activities. Indulge in traditional Irish fare like Irish Stew, Irish Potatoes, Corned Beef, and Bangers, paired perfectly with Irish brews. Immerse yourself in Irish culture at the Cultural, Arts, & Genealogy Tents, featuring music, demonstrations, genealogy, Irish Karaoke, Irish dance, storytelling, and more. Don’t forget to browse the Irish market filled with specialized vendors offering items from Ireland.

Making their first Irishfest La Crosse appearance this year is BIIRD, an all-female Irish traditional music supergroup that opened for Ed Sheran on his Loop Tour. They’ll play Friday night before the return of Gaelic Storm, Scythian is back for two shows this year, Screaming Orphans, High Kings and more grace the main stage. The Harp Stage will host talented artists including the Harp Twins’ quirky, highly entertaining shows.

CLICK HERE for the full line up of events and don’t miss Irishfest Night at Moon Tunes, August 6 in Riverside Park, La Crosse.

17 and Under Free Admission! Grab adult tickets in advance HERE!

Veteran tickets are available, single day tickets $5 each, Limit 2 per Veteran. Limited supply of tickets available at the service counter of the CVSO at 300 4th St N. La Crosse.

Festival times:

Friday: Opening Ceremony at 3 p.m. – Midnight

Saturday: Noon – Midnight

Sunday: 10 a.m. – Scattering, starting at 4:45