Celtic Fest at Belle Mont returns May 9
The Belle Mont Celtic Fest will bring the music, culture and traditions of Scotland and Ireland to the historic Belle Mont Mansion grounds on Saturday, May 9, offering a full day of entertainment and family-friendly activities.
Headlining the festival is the acclaimed Sean Heely Band, known for its high-energy blend of Irish, Scottish and Appalachian sounds. Sean Heely will be joined by female musician-vocalists and an Irish step dancer, adding a dynamic visual and musical element to the performance. Also performing are the popular Piper Jones Band, featuring renowned bagpiper E. J. Jones, and regional favorites Chambless and Muse.
In addition to live music, the festival will feature a variety of arts and crafts vendors, including goods from the Near and Far Scottish merchandise collection. A selection of festival food vendors will be on site, along with offerings of traditional Scottish and Irish baked goods.
Activities for all ages are planned throughout the day. Children can enjoy special kids’ activities, including the chance to meet a Highland cow and visit with sheep. Demonstrations of sheep herding by Southern Border Collies will highlight traditional skills, while the field below the historic home will host demonstrations by Rocket City Throwing Club of the skills required for Highland Games.
The celebration begins Friday, May 8, with a free pre-festival museum day from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Visitors can enjoy a sneak peek with parlor performances of traditional string instruments, alternating with discussion programs on themes of Celtic history. Presentations will be led by University of North Alabama history professor Dr. George Makowski, who will discuss religion in early Scots history, and Shoals Symphony Director and UNA music professor Dr. Jeremy Smith, who will explore the tradition of “murder ballads” in Celtic and Appalachian heritage.
The full festival takes place Saturday, May 9, from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., with gates opening at 9 a.m. Admission is $10 for adults, $5 for teenagers, and free for children 12 and under. Parking is free. During the day, free tours inside the mansion will offer visitors a glimpse of spinners and weavers demonstrating their craft, with opportunities for hands-on weaving, while parlor performances will feature a duo playing traditional tunes on hammered dulcimers.
Belle Mont Mansion, located at 1569 Cook Lane in Tuscumbia, Alabama provides a unique and picturesque setting for the celebration of Celtic music, culture, and traditions. Attendees will enjoy the festival’s activities and performances amidst the sweeping grounds and historic architecture of Belle Mont Mansion.
For additional information, please contact Belle Mont Mansion at 256-381-5052 or [email protected]; visit www.bellemontcelticfest.com
