Clans on the Coast is a Celtic festival that has previously been held in Nelson Bay, New South Wales. Started by Ron Swan OAM heading a committee of like-minded people, the first Clans on the Coast was held in 2007. COVID 19 forced the festival to go into a long hiatus.
The committee is now trialling a new location in 2023, and Anglo&Celtic magazine is the proud media sponsor for the event.
“Raymond Terrace is more centrally located,” says Adam Nicholas, one of the event organisers.
Adam has long thought that this would be a logical move as Celtic people were among the first settlers in the Hunter Region. He says: “We also want to keep the traditions of the Celtic culture alive, especially in a modern era of screen addictions.”
With a fresh outlook on the event, the festival is to be held at Lakeside Sports Complex. Lakeside is a larger venue, allowing the festival to be spread out across two football fields.
The festival is a perfect family day out, with organisers encouraging the involvement of local and regional amateur artists, community groups and service clubs.
Opening the day with a mass pipes and drums and the calling of the clans’ festival goers are encouraged to wear something Celtic to help with the atmosphere of the day. Schools are being invited to march in the opening and the best-dressed Celtic student will win some prize money, to be equally split with their school.
The festival’s long-running dog competition will not be on this year, unfortunately, due to ground restrictions, as dogs are not allowed in the complex.
However, all the crowd favourites will be there, including strong men, re-enactors, dancers, clans, and bands. You can wander through the stalls and enjoy the great food. This festival will have something for everyone, including fairground rides for the children.
Following the close of the day with another mass pipes and drums march and an award ceremony, is the evening ceilidh. This year, the ceilidh is being held in the Raymond Terrace Bowling Club. Expect folk music and singing, traditional dancing, and storytelling. The Ukulele Scotsman will regale you with tunes.
Festival organisers will be marching a pipe and drum band through the bowling club on the night, you can enjoy a delicious two-course meal, and experience the Address to a Haggis by Robert Burns with a bit of pageantry. Haggis will be optional to try, with a side helping of bashed neeps (turnip).
Tickets are now available online for both events through www.clansonthecoast.com.au
Anglo&Celtic 