Biggest free Celtic festival in North America 'poised to be best yet' announces whopper line-up

The biggest free Celtic festival in North America has announced a whopper line-up. Five stages of world-renowned entertainers will take to the stage at Celtic Classic Highland Games and Festival 2024 from September 27-29.

Downtown Bethlehem, Pennsylvania will be filled with the sounds of tin whistles, fiddles and bagpipes thanks to a slew of performers , some of whom are seasoned, and some of whom are new to the massive event .

Introduced for the first time is Ally the Piper, an award winning piper, Conor Mallon from Ireland with their unique sound and Uillean bagpipes, and The Byrne Brothers who will bring their highly acclaimed musical and dance show .

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"There will be surprises every minute of the weekend ranging from dance and music to traditional competitions , lectures, food and shopping," said Jayne Ann Recker, Executive Director of the Celtic Cultural Alliance.

"With the outstanding support we've received from the community and from our sponsors, this year's festival is poised to be one of our largest celebrations of Celtic heritage while still remaining a free, family-friendly event."

The line-up will inspire a jig or two thanks to Seamus Kennedy, musician and comedian extraordinaire who returns after a three-year break. Meanwhile, Albannach brings back their tribal, Scottish sound and The Prodigals return with a strong Celtic rock vibe . Crowd favorite Emish will also play their last gigs before retirement .

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Rounding out the two and a half day jolly will be favorites Blackwater, On the Lash, Glengarry Bhoys and Gerry Timlin who is making his 37th appearance at the festival . He has never missed a Celtic Classic since its inception.

It comes after Celtic Classic was saved from closure after the economic impact of the pandemic, years of being rained out, and plummeting sales left the popular event facing the axe .

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With "no money coming in," organizers were growing concerned that the festival wouldn't be able to survive. Now, after a plea for financial backing to ensure the festival lives on was met, Celtic Classic is a go for 2024.

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