More Than Music at the Michigan Irish Music Festival!

Michigan Irish Music Festival is a 4 day festival in beach-town Muskegon, Michigan. It has been presenting Irish and Celtic music, dance, culture, food and fun since 1999.

"To produce a world-class Music Festival that promotes Irish culture and heritage, enhancing the community as a destination through entertainment, tourism, education, and philanthropy." is the mission of this organization.

Accordingly, philanthropy shines through with over $365,000 in cash and 25,000 pounds of food that have been donated to the community since 2008.

Heritage Landing is the beautiful location, right on the shore of Muskegon Lake. Guests can listen to the biggest names in Celtic music. Musicians and artists come from around the state, the nation and all over the world! In addition, a highlight of the festival is the focus on culture.

Cultural Experiences at the Michigan Irish Music Festival

Patrons can certainly find plenty of cultural presentations. All within steps from the energetic main stages. Exhibits and interactive experiences are offered throughout the festival grounds. 

 Grafton Street

A recent addition to the Michigan Irish Music Festival was "Grafton Street". Where one could wind thier way to an area named for a famous street in Dublin. Grafton Street, in Ireland, is known for street art and music. In Michigan's Grafton Street patrons will find the Session Tent; a drop-in music circle inspired by the Irish tradition of “session music.” In this area, you can find live music, dance, storytelling, and more. Yard games and local craft cocktails from Wonderland Distillery add to the good-time-spirit!

 Irish Life & History

Dig in to a deeper understanding of the Irish and their culture. Growing up in an Irish-speaking home, the Irish diaspora, the history of crios belt weaving... These are just a handful of presentations one can sit in on.

 Celtic Canines

Come meet all the dog breeds originated from the Emerald Isle. Learn about what each breed was originally designed to do. 

 Wake House

Get a glimpse into the unique tradition of an Irish wake. Three days filled with dancing, drinking, and singing as a celebration of life.

 Catholic Mass

Patrons are invited to gather at the festival’s G&L Cork Stage for Catholic Mass on Sunday mornings.

 Literature & Creative Arts

Experience Irish literature and creative arts like never before. It must be remembered that many of the world’s prolific writers, playwrights, and artists were of Irish heritage. Irish Language, the Book of Kells, Celtic mythology, WB Yeats - information on these and more are available.

Did you know Muskegon's Hackley Library is home to what may be the only copy on permanent (and free!) display in a public library in North America? Click to above to watch a video on it!

 Music Education & Performance

Reignite your passion for music! Festival musicians lead interactive how-to workshops and intimate solo concerts.

Wee Ones of All Ages

Wee ones can be whisked away by Irish tales and storytelling. Stop by the Wee One’s tent for a variety of crafts and free face-painting; available all weekend long.

 Food & Shopping

Find authentic Irish fare in the Celtic Kitchen at Michigan Irish Music Festival. Feast on favorites like corned beef, fish and chips and potato soup!

 

Of course beverage stations offer classics like Irish Fest Stout, Five Farms Irish Cream, Magner’s Irish Cider, and Jameson Irish Whiskey.

 

Whether you find yourself jamming in the Session Tent, creating Celtic crests, watching traditional Irish dancers, relishing in some authentic (and dirty) limericks, or dancing in the front row; On the whole Michigan Irish Music Festival truly has something for everyone.

 

Tea Room at the Michigan Irish Music Festival

 

Held at Heritage Landing in Downtown Muskegon, Michigan the second weekend of September.

Find more information at MICHIGANIRISH.ORG