Irish Festival Returns For Weekend Of Music, Dance And Culture In Marin County

SAN RAFAEL, CA – The spirit of Ireland is set to come alive on May 16–17 as the Marin Irish Festival returns to Lagoon Park at the Marin County Fairgrounds.

“The Marin Irish Festival brings people together through shared traditions, storytelling, and celebration,” said event producer Drew Patterson. “Whether you’re honoring your heritage or discovering Irish culture for the first time, it’s a weekend filled with connection, music, and fun.”

Produced by Red Barn Productions, the festival is a joyful Beltane celebration offering a full weekend of traditional Irish music, high-energy dance, authentic food, and hands-on cultural experiences 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. May 16–17 at 110 Armory Dr. in San Rafael.

The ancient Celtic festival of Beltane, marking the start of summer, inspires the event, which will feature maypoles, lively entertainment and family fun. Festivalgoers can explore six stage areas showcasing acclaimed Irish musicians like The Black Brothers and The Black Irish Band, storytelling, and a free children’s game area.

Irish Dance Competition Heats Up

Back by popular demand is The Ceílí on the Lake Championships, a fully sanctioned Irish dance competition held in partnership with the Jackie Flynn Irish Dance Academy. Dancers of all ages will compete for the coveted Champion of Champions title. In addition to watching the formal competition, attendees are invited to join open set dancing sessions led by instructors throughout the weekend.

Musicians of all skill levels are also encouraged to participate in open seisiúin, also known as jam sessions, inside the Bearded Goose Pub, offering a relaxed setting to celebrate Irish music.

Immerse Yourself in Irish Heritage

Beyond the stages, the festival offers immersive cultural experiences, including:

• United Irish Cultural Center: Featuring the “Keepers of the Steps” exhibit and a marketplace with rare Irish imports.
• Falcon’s Court: A captivating birds-of-prey environment where guests can meet and take photos with majestic raptors.
• SF Gaelic Athletic Association: Demonstrating fast-paced Irish team sports like hurling, Gaelic football, and Camogie.
• Beginner Irish Language Workshop: Festivalgoers can learn basic phrases and a poem or song at the Poet’s Corner.

The expansive marketplace will showcase over 40 craft vendors selling Irish goods, including jewelry, textiles, and ceramics. Food vendors will serve classic Irish fare like corned beef and cabbage, shepherd’s pie, and fish and chips, accompanied by pints of Guinness, local ales, and hard ciders, which can be enjoyed at the Bearded Goose Irish Pub or the newly added second pub, The Gander.

Tickets for the event are available now at tickets.marincenter.org.

Single-day tickets cost $30 for adults and $15 for children ages 5–11. A two-day weekend pass can be purchased for $50 for adults and $25 for children. Parking is free, with both onsite and street options available.

For more information, visit marinirishfestival.com.