The 20th annual Iowa Irish Fest is almost here! The three-day celebration
returns to downtown Waterloo’s Lincoln Park area July 31 through August 2, bringing one of the
Midwest’s largest celebrations of Irish music, dance, culture and heritage.
The festival officially begins Friday, July 31, with the Opening Ceremony at 4 p.m. on the Nagle Sign/
KWWL Stage. Festivalgoers can then enjoy a full weekend of live entertainment, featuring headlining
performances by Scythian on Friday and Gaelic Storm on Saturday and Sunday.
Admission includes access to a wide variety of cultural experiences, educational workshops and family-
friendly activities throughout the weekend.
New this year, visitors are invited to explore an exhibit on Irish immigration to Iowa at the Elks Lodge
Ballroom. The Elks Lodge will also host Travel and Tour Workshops and Artist Series Workshops, all
included with paid festival admission.
Take a stroll through the Cultural Village and experience the rich traditions of Ireland firsthand. Watch live blacksmithing demonstrations, try your hand at fiber arts with the NE Iowa Spinners and Weavers Guild, and see DKW Gallery create Irish-inspired artwork. Learn a cúpla focal (a few words) of Irish during our local language classes.
After exploring the Cultural Village, unwind at Dillon’s Pub with a quiet beverage
and live traditional music in an authentic Irish pub atmosphere.
Beer enthusiasts won’t want to miss the Guinness Experience, where a National Guinness Brand
Ambassador will share the history of Guinness brewing through an engaging storytelling seminar
featuring Guinness family beers.
Whiskey lovers can enjoy several whiskey workshops throughout the weekend, including a special
presentation by Sean Scully, co-founder of Clonakilty Distillery in County Cork, Ireland. Scully will share
the story of the distillery’s history and modern-day operations. Guests will also have the opportunity
to purchase the official Iowa Irish Fest 20th Anniversary Whiskey, created in partnership with Holladay
Bourbon, at the Whiskey Snug.
Festival tickets are on sale now at IowaIrishFest.com. Children ages 15 and younger receive free
admission with a paid adult ticket, making Iowa Irish Fest an affordable event for the entire family.
Families are also encouraged to visit the festival’s dedicated Family Area, featuring activities for children
of all ages.
IowaIrishFest.com
To view the complete festival schedule and purchase tickets, visit IowaIrishFest.com.
Iowa Irish Fest is organized annually by the Cedar Valley Irish Culture Association, a nonprofit
organization dedicated to fostering Irish fellowship and strengthening community connections through
Irish cultural events and educational programs.
