Irish chef Declan McGovern will give cooking demonstrations at the National Celtic Folk Festival, and, below, St Ayles Skiffs will make their first  appearance at the festival. Picture: facebook.com/nationalcelticfestival

The National Celtic Folk Festival in Portarlington from June 6 to 9, isn’t just about the music and dancing — this year, the festival promises an unforgettable line-up of unusual and exciting events that will leave visitors in awe. If you’re looking for something out of the ordinary, you’ll find it here.

DATES & DEETS

One of the most intriguing highlights is the Celtic Skiffs Challenge. Sailing into tradition, for the first time St Ayles Skiffs are set to highlight at the Festival with timeless craft and competitive spirit.

These traditional wooden boats, once a staple of Celtic coastal communities, will be paddling through the waves on Portarlington’s bay. Teams will battle it out for glory while showcasing their skills on the water. The skiffs will give spectators a chance to witness the thrill of competitive rowing with a Celtic twist.

Over the long weekend, more than 60 national and international acts will perform across multiple venues, offering a rich tapestry of experiences for all ages. The festival’s diverse program includes traditional and contemporary folk music, dance performances, storytelling, workshops, and cultural exhibitions. Highlights include the Heavy Games, showcasing feats of strength with events like caber tossing and hammer throwing, and a thrilling hurling match between Geelong and Melbourne teams, marking the first full-scale hurling clash at the festival.

Culinary enthusiasts can indulge in gourmet offerings, including a special collaboration with renowned Irish chef Declan McGovern, who will blend traditional Irish flavours with local produce in exclusive cooking demonstrations.

For those with an eye for the quirky and creative, don’t miss the Celtic Crafts Market. Here, you’ll find artisans showcasing the best of Celtic craftsmanship, from intricate jewellery and woven tartans to handmade pottery and wooden carvings. 

The festival will also feature a Whisky and Ale Tasting Experience where attendees can sample the finest Celtic beverages, including Scottish whiskies and Irish ales, paired with traditional bites. 

And for those with a love of the mystical, the Celtic Storytelling Circle is bound to captivate. Step into a circle of traditional Irish and Scottish storytellers as they spin tales of myth, magic, and ancient warriors, all under the stars.

A dynamic lineup of international and local talent celebrates the depth and diversity of Celtic music. Irish acts feature prominently, with genre-pushing Gaelic music producer Caoimhín, the emotive singer-songwriter Gráinne Hunt, and the acclaimed traditional group Tulua all making the trip from Ireland. Representing the homegrown scene are some of Australia’s most exciting Celtic-inspired artists, including neo-trad rave sensation Amaidí, Tasmanian folk favourites Homebru, and the innovative Melbourne-based Tolka. Blues slide guitarist Anna Scionti and Scottish-heritage duo Bo’Ness will also take the stage, alongside the up-and-coming Irish ensemble Ceoltóirí Naarm, this year’s designated “Face of the Festival.” Audiences can also look forward to performances by the Melbourne Scottish Fiddlers, The Raglins, Hiraeth, Bhan Tre and more.

So whether you’re interested in traditional boat races, hands-on crafts, or indulging in Celtic spirits, the National Celtic Folk Festival has something delightful waiting around every corner.

Families are warmly welcomed, with children under 12 enjoying free entry and a range of activities designed to engage young minds in Celtic traditions. 

Tickets are available now at www.nationalcelticfestival.com.