1 2 A huge budget increase and a very largeHello expansion Fest has createdFans! a lot of excitement for the 2019 Iowa Irish Fest! We have been planning year 13 of the Iowa Irish Fest since the last Fest with many of us meeting weekly. We now have around 80 Committee planning members who are each doing their part to put on this wonderful event for all of us! Simple words of appreciation for the Committee and our other 1,200 Volunteers that show up to humbly serve is never enough. You, the fans reading this letter, that show up to the Fest regardless of what is going on with the weather, news, or other activities in the area are the best thank you all our From Our Director volunteers need! I’m proud of the Fest Committee for working hard to be fiscally responsible, transparent, and communicate with each other, while doing their best to keep costs down, allowing our “Heroes” and kids 15 years old & under in the Fest for free, while still building one of most affordable, and in my opinion, one of the best music events in the Midwest - right here in Downtown Waterloo IOWA!
Please take a hard look at the list on the back page of our Partner Sponsors who play a key role in supporting the Irish Fest; without them, these community events could not happen. They assist with marketing, financial support, and always encourage their employees to attend and to volunteer. The amount of money we spend on Entertainment alone would cause gate cost to skyrocket if it wasn’t for these Sponsor Partners’ continued support!
There’s a lot of ground to cover this year. I encourage everyone to take some extra time to walk around, see everyone’s hard work, experience new cultural activities, and enjoy the change that is happening in Downtown Waterloo!
Thank you to all our Sponsor Partners, Cities, Non-Profits, and our Volunteers and their families for supporting an event that is rising up and showcasing our amazing community! Go raibh maith agat! Chad Shipman, Iowa Irish Fest Director
2019 Iowa Irish Fest Committee Members
Angie Boreman Ethan Akin Jolene Tagtow Rick Hartnett Hospitality Whiskey & Beer Co-Chair Entertainment Partner Sponsors Angela Ott Grace Fee Jordan Larkin Rose Miller Grants Grants Social Media Fest Ticketing Agnes Kress Greg Tagtow Julie Gage Rory Dolan Sr. Merchandise Entertainment Public Relations Logistics, Past Fest Director Ann Fuller Heather Mulcahy Kate Schildroth Salina Gavin Elks Lodge 290 Representative Celtic Cruise Motorcycle Ride Workshop & Continuity Manual Chair Fest Website & Photo Contest Ann Woods Jake Weber Kathy McGowan Samantha Timmons VIP Experience Chair Logistics, Sigma Phi Epsilon Food & Merchandise Vendors Amperage Marketing, Fundraising Annie & Brandon Alvarado Jan Pratt Klint Sauke Sharon Gallen Program/Website Design CARA Club Friends of the Fest Rugby Invitational Family Fun & Learning Area Ashley Hess Jane Messingham Kristina Miller Shaun Kane Treasury, Outreach & Social Media Treasury Treasurer Logistics Brad Martin Janet Drewelow Lori McConville Shawn Mulcahy Fest Ticketing Visitor & Festival Information Partner Sponsors Celtic Cruise Motorcycle Ride Brian Beery Jeanette Kester Logan Rottinghaus Shaylin Girsch Volunteer Coordinator Merchandise & Mass Logistics, Sigma Phi Epsilon Jameson’s Representative Brent Gilmore Jeff Eastland Maggie Burke Sinead Koeneke Whiskey Snug Beer Co-Chair CARA Club Friends of the Fest Raffles & Fundraising Brooke Ullom Jenn Bruns Marianne Kurtenbach Stan Nielsen Shamrock N’ Run 5K Sheep Herding, Highland Games Logisitcs Electrical High Nelly Bike Rally Casey Hansen Jessie Shipman Matt Thompson Sue Beach Rugby Invitational Shamrock N’ Run 5k Beer Co-Chair Fest Ticketing Chad Shipman Jim Dolan Meagan Visser Ted Batemon Iowa Irish Fest Director Catholic Mass, Weather Cultural Event Center Partner Sponsors Cheryl Vaughan Jim Maas Mike Bosner Terry Nelson CARA Club Friends of the Fest Logistics Fest Shuttle & Transportation Highland Games Chris Davis Jim Walsh – President, Cedar Valley Mike Burns Tiffini Kieler Fest Shuttle & Transportation Irish Cultural Association Entertainment Amperage Marketing & Fundraising Christina Gilmore Jocelyn Williams Mike Miller Tim Tierney Whiskey Snug Volunteer Coordinator Logistics Beer Chair Craig Drewelow Joe Giachino Patrick Moran Trent Hunter Logistics Whiskey Tasting, Whiskey Snug Beer Chair Merchandise Dee Kruger Jon Fraser Pete Fuller Vickie Minard Cultural Events Center Fest Website Elks Lodge 290 Representative Sheep Herding Diane Craig John Vaughan Renee Duesenberg Wendy Brunko High Nelly Bike Rally CARA Club Friends of the Fest Communication Specialist Workshops Doug Larrabee John Woods Rich Kurtenbach Wendy Schaefer Safety & Entertainment Safety Logistics & Electricial, IBEW 288 Royalty & Family Area Representative 3
Go raibh maith agaibh The Cedar Valley Irish Cultural Association is an organization intended to foster and develop Irish Our Mission fellowship and outreach in to the community with Irish cultural events and programs. Association President, Jim Walsh, said, “The Irish in Iowa have done such a fine job OUR PRESIDENT AND FOUNDER of melding into their communities that we felt it was time to draw them back out a bit and show them off to their Jim Walsh neighbors and as many visitors as we could.”
CARA, what is CARA?
Come see what all the FUN is about!
Join the Cara Group for a Meet and Greet Sunday 11AM-1PM at the Large Hospitality Tent Northeast Corner of Lincoln Park 4 OPENING CEREMONY AUG 2ND, 2019
All are welcome to walk in the grand entry or enjoy watching along 4th Street
3:45 Staging for 4:15 Opening Ceremony Opening Ceremony President and Director’s Cedar Street & W 4th Street messages at the Nagle KWWL Main Stage 4:00 Grand Entry 4:30 Iowa Irish Fest Walk down 4th Street over Officially Opens the river to Fest Grounds Welcome The Trinity Irish Dancers Represent the Fest as Royalty!
HE HONOR TO BECOME ONE OF THE COVETED IRISH Sign up to participate in the King and Queen Competition by 5:00pm FEST ROYALTY IS WITHIN YOUR GRASP! Saturday at the Information Booth located in Lincoln Park. The contest will take place at 6:05 pm on the Van G. Miller Family Charitable Foundation Becoming King, Queen or Prince and Princess for the Iowa Stage (Mulberry & 4th Street). T Irishfest is a great experience. Contest winners receive the prestige, prizes and ability to showcase your Iowa Irish Fest Best Legs In A Kilt is a must-see event! Press your kilt and break out your spirit at public appearances. unique skills, dancing shoes, musical instruments or simply your best talent and let’s showcase those legs! May the best win! Volunteers will Sign up to participate in the Prince and Princess Competition by 2:30pm walk the crowds and sign up participants. If you want to make sure you Saturday at Walsh Cottage Information Center in the Family area. The are signed up come to Walsh Cottage – Family Information located in contest will take place at 3:20 pm on the newly relocated MercyOne the Family area and we will get you signed up. All participants must be Stage (Sycamore & 4th Street). signed up by 7:00pm. Contest take place at 8:05pm Saturday on the Lincoln Savings Bank Stage (Lafayette & 4th Street).
Good luck and remember spots are limited so sign up early!
6 The Crown Jewel of Waterloo THE BLACK’S BUILDING
STARTED CONSTRUCTION IN 1912 AND COMPLETED IN 1913, THE BLACK’S BUILDING WAS THE THIRD LOCATION FOR JAMES BLACK’S DRY GOODS STORE.
lack was born in the County of Donegal The James Black family sold the building in 1960 to Allied Stores. It then September 20, 1856 (however, his gravestone was sold to Donaldson’s Department store and was purchased by the shows his birth year as 1857). As a young man, Nelson Family, John G. Miller Construction, and Chuck Granger in 1980. he came to the U.S. with his brother. They The building is now 106 years old and still going strong. And the Nelson established a dry goods store in Marshalltown, Family remains the sole owner of Black’s. Tenants include but not limited B lowa where the two sold Irish linens. Black to; 4 radio stations, an Engineering company, an Architectural company, later returned to Ireland to establish his own store in Ramelton Law firms, State agencies, a Carrier Hotel for Fiber Optic Communications but was called back to the U.S. when his brother died. Black Companies, and also residential tenants. Many of these companies have returned to help settle his brother’s estate and sell the remaining been located in the Black’s building for over 32 years. merchandise from his Marshalltown store. Mention Black’s and people throughout Northeast lowa have a mental In July 1892, Black moved to Waterloo and with $5,000, he image of the building along with fond memories. As a department store, opened a modest store on 122 East 4th Street, with a retail floor Black’s enjoyed nearly a century of success in downtown Waterloo. As an about 20 feet by 80 feet. He bought $4,500 of merchandise and office building, Black’s continues to be an anchor at the city’s center; a kept back $500 to live off. However, the $4,500 of merchandise place for professionals to work and now live, for entrepreneurs to develop was not enough to fill Black’s modest store. According to his own businesses and where some of the city’s most important services are and his acquaintances accounts, Black’s merchandise didn’t fill all offered. his shelves, so he put up a curtain to obscure the back portion of the store. This didn’t stop business from picking up! The Black’s Building lies alongside the entire block of Sycamore, between E. 4th and E. Park Streets and is actually three different buildings, Mr. Black lived the “Emerson principle”. The way to win a friend constructed at three different times and joined together perfectly was to be a friend. Mr. Black was a friend to all. so when inside, you cannot distinguish when you are going from one James Black married Anna M. Harper on Sept. 15th, 1892. He building to the next. then built a home which is still standing at 120 Independence Avenue in the year 1900. Mr. Black’s private funeral was held in that house March 14, 1919.
(Fun fact! Before his marriage, James Black was a roommate of “Billy” Sunday, who played baseball in the National League and later became a world-renowned evangelist.)
Needing more space in 1899, he moved to 104-106 East 4th Street, and later expanded to include 107-109 East 4th Street. He then formed an official company – the James Black Dry Goods Co. in 1902. In 1912, he started construction on the first portion The Building’s Architecture of the Black’s Building – a 10-story high structure fronting East The Building’s architecture is renaissance with Gothic emphasis, standing 4th Street. Unfortunately, Black died at 62 years old suddenly 132 ft. tall plus a 50 ft. flagpole on the roof and sets on a 1.3-acre site. during an influenza outbreak in 1919. By then, his company The Black’s Building in downtown Waterloo has been described as the employed about 300 people. Black’s nephew, James Graham, most historic and iconic building in Black Hawk County. When it was took over the company. completed in 1913 it set the standard for design of the neighborhood. In 1928 an addition was added to the Black’s Building along The last upgrade to the building was five years ago and totaled over $4 Sycamore Street. From then and into the 1960’s, Black’s had a million dollars. The renovation which included adding apartments, new reputation for being the finest department store in Northeast roofs, electrical service (Double grid) and two new water supply services lowa and its 8th-floor tearoom was said to offer the finest dining along with all lighting changed from incandescent to energy efficient available for miles. LEDs and Johnson Controls. New memories are being created daily for The Black’s Building still stands as a monument to his genius – the people who work there and for generations to come with weddings, a testament to a business that was built upon a foundation of celebrations, events, etc. on the top floor in the Black’s Sky and Tea honor, candor, and conscientious endeavor. Rooms.Crown jewel of Waterloo I O W A I R I S H & L E P R E C H A U N C U P AUGUST 3RD-4TH
IRISH 20113 9
C E D A R V A L L E Y S O C C E R C O M P L E X W A T E R L O O
INFORMATION & REGISTRATION: CEDARVALLEYSOCCERCLUB.ORG IOWAIRISHFEST.COM AUGUST 3RD AT 10:00 AM StartingAUGUST Location LINCOLN 3RD PARKAT Downtown10:00 AM Waterloo Family and adult rides on the Cedar Valley river trails through Starting Locationdowntown LINCOLN Waterloo and PARK surrounding Downtown area Waterloo Family and adult rides on the Cedar Valley river trails through
BEST VINTAGE OR IRISHdowntown COSTUME WaterlooY and BI surrounding area LL KE and E N R BEST VINTAGE BIKE CONTEST A
H L
G L I BEST VINTAGEChance to winOR IRISH 1 of 3 bikes COSTUME B Y
H Y I LL KE and E N R BEST REGISTERVINTAGE BIKE CONTESTAT A
H L
G L I
Chance to win 1 of 3 bikes Downtown Waterloo Y
IowaIrishFest.com H REGISTER AT IowaIrishFest.com Downtown Waterloo Sponsored by: INVISION Architecture Hansen’s Dairy Sponsored by: Andy’s Mobile Bike Shop MARKETING & FUNDRAISING INVISIONThe Other ArchitecturePlace Hansen’sBrown Bottle Dairy Waterloo Andy’sKwik Star Mobile Bike Shop MARKETING & FUNDRAISING TheBike Other Collective Place BrownCity of Waterloo Bottle Waterloo Downtown Waterloo KwikDoughy Star Joey’s Peetza Joynt Bike Collective City of Waterloo Downtown Waterloo Doughy Joey’s Peetza Joynt High Nelly 9 Bike Rally
The High Nelly Bike Rally celebrates the High Nelly vintage bicycle with your choice of a road ride or a trail ride along the scenic Waterloo Cedar River bike trails. Participants are encouraged to ride vintage bicycles and wear kilts and Irish outfits. Prizes are given for best vintage bike (or vintage look) and for best outfit. Prizes are awarded at a wonderful party at the end of the ride.
Your entry in the High Nelly Bike Rally includes the ride with swag bag and High Nelly T-shirt, chances to win the many prizes and a free beer at the post ride party . A ticket for the entire week-end at the Iowa Irish Fest is available at a discount with your High Nelly entry.
Come join the High Nelly Bike Rally at 10am on Saturday August 3rd. Register at: Eventbrite.com/e/high-nelly-bike-rally-tickets-58768092948
History of Bicycles in Ireland In the 1890’s the Irish took to bicycling a big way, transforming the streets of Dublin. The bicycle has it’s origins in France in the early 1800’s with the invention of the “Hobby Horse”. This was really a walking and coasting two wheeled machine without pedals. It is very similar in idea to the The High Nelly Era “Striders” used today as children’s first bicycles (to learn how to balance In the 1930’s Raleigh an English company set up factory in on two wheels), except it was adult sized with steel wheels. Ireland. In the 1930’s and 40’s the “High Nelly” style bicycle became popular and was produced by Raleigh in Ireland. Like The “Velocipede” was the first bike with pedals. This improvement came William Blood’s Tricycle the High Nelly made bicycling popular in the 1860’s. This bike was not chain driven but rather had the pedals with women. The High Nelly had swept back handlebars at a attached directly to the front wheel. It too had steel wheels and became higher level than the seat. This design allowed “Nelly” to sit up known as the “Boneshaker”. This bike was also invented in France. “High” in a lady like position on her bicycle, thus the name “High Nelly”. The High Nelly has a swooped down top tube that allows In the 1870’s the “High Wheel” or “Ordinary” bicycle was invented. Its the lady to easily step through. This allowed the ladies to ride large front wheel meant the ride was more comfortable and that you the bike while wearing dresses. could travel easier and faster over longer distances. There are men’s versions of the High Nelly as well. Again the Enter The Irish handlebars extend higher than the seat. Some men’s models In 1876, William Bindon Blood (Dublin, Ireland) patented the “Lightweight were designed with two top tubes giving them a distinct look. Tricycle”. These Tricycles were used by women and older men as they Women riding sidesaddle, sitting up high on their man’s bicycle were safer and easier to ride than the Boneshakers. These tricycles had were also referred to as “High Nelly’s” two wheels in the front and one in the back. The rider sat in-between the Raleigh was the world’s largest bike manufacturer in this era. two front wheels allowing ladies to ride in their dresses. This tricycle was Their Ireland factory produced the Sturmey Archer 3 speed hub. a predecessor to some of the current recumbent bicycles used today. The first multi-speed bikes used this 3 speed hub including many The 1880’s saw the introduction of chain driven bicycles. These machines High Nelly’s. This 3 speed hub is still in use today. were known as the “Safety Bicycle” as they were much safer to ride than By the 1950’s almost every household in Ireland had a bicycle and the High Wheeler. This bike is the predecessor to bicycles to this day. cyclists were a common sight on Irish roads. Bicycling continues In 1888 John Dunlap re-invented the rubber pneumatic tire and opened today in Ireland as a mode of transportation as well as an Ireland a tire factory in Dublin. This modification made the “Safety Bicycle” more touring option. comfortable and faster to ride. The adaption of the rubber pneumatic (Credit given to: National Museum of Ireland; Independent.ie; lovely- tire lead to the expansion of bicycling as a more widely used mode of bike.blogspot.com for content) transportation. Rang Gaeilge San Cedar Valley
Rang Gaeilge San Cedar Valley is a free Irish language study group in the Waterloo area. Classes are held once a week during the school year and every other week during the summer. For more information, please contact us at [email protected]. We also partner with the Irish language class in Cedar Rapids Iowa. For more information on the Cedar Rapids group, please contact Wayne Shannon at [email protected] 10
EXPERIENCE CEDAR RIDGE
The Cedar Ridge Winery & Distillery team are excited to be part of the 2019 Iowa Irish Fest. Cedar Ridge is the first licensed distillery in Iowa since Prohibition. All of our products are handcrafted in small batches and allowed to barrel age. Come learn the Cedar Ridge Story and discover what others have learned about our award-winning whiskeys. Visit us this weekend! We are located on 4th St in front of Jameson’s. We have brought a bit of our history and a demonstration of the Cedar Ridge distillery process to share with you. In 2005, Cedar Ridge became the first licensed distillery in the state of Iowa since Prohibition, when owners Jeff and Laurie Quint aimed to follow a long family tradition of Iowa farmers and distillers, including Jeff’s father and grandfather, who produced locally made brandies. Cedar Ridge produces wines from its own estate-grown grapes and crafts its award-winning spirits in its four custom-engineered German pot stills. The lush 5,000 vines and 15,000 square foot winery, distillery, tasting room and event center provide quality wines, spirits and an exciting entertainment experience for Eastern Iowa. Cedar Ridge is best known for making Iowa Bourbon which is the number 3 Bourbon in the state and made with 74% corn, all of that corn is grown on a family farm in Winthrop, IA. WHISKEY CLASSES Come take a Whiskey Class in the Elks Lodge. $35 admission includes tasting of five whiskeys, a Whiskey Master T-Shirt and a 45 minute educational tasting session.
Sign up at the Elks Lodge or at IowaIrishFest.com. Only 25 seats available for the following times:
FRIDAY, AUGUST 2ND 6:30 PM | 8:00 PM
SATURDAY , AUGUST 3RD NOON | 1:30 PM | 3:00 PM 5:00 PM | 6:30 PM | 8:00 PM
SUNDAY, AUGUST 4TH NOON | 1:30 PM | 3:00 PM
BE SURE TO VISIT THE WHISKEY SNUG Located at the Northwest Corner of Lincoln Park near the Nagle/KWWL Stage
HOURS OF OPERATION: Friday 5:00 - 10:30 PM Saturday Noon - 10:30 PM Sunday 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Be sure to check out our Schedule Guide for other fun opportunities to learn about whiskey! IOWA IRISH FEST AND SILVER EAGLE HARLEY DAVIDSON PRESENT CELTIC CRUISE 4 2019
AUGUST $30 per person, SILVER EAGLE HARLEYincludes Iowa DAVIDSON Irish Fest FROM weekend pass, t-shirt, and a 10 A.M. drink token for our return to Iowa Irish Fest
STARTS AT IowaIrishFest.com
Downtown Waterloo AUTOGRAPHS
LETTERPRESS + DESIGN + CREATIVE GOODS
Based in downtown Waterloo, Iowa, PRETTY GOOD CO. is a letterpress print and design studio dedicated to craft and quality. With vintage printing presses, we help people with amazing ideas create beautiful things.
From custom-designed business cards, packaging, art prints, or stationery and invites we love to make “pretty good” things for people.
We also offer a retail storefront with cards, stationery, art prints, and gifts created by other Iowa and midwest artists.
Drop us a line to tell us about your project or visit the shop and say hi!
[email protected] 310 West 4th Street Waterloo, Iowa 50701 www.theprettygood.co 14 FRIDAY, AUG. 2
HEADLINERS
SAT & SUN, AUG 3–4
SCYTHIAN GAELIC STORM Friday: 9:30 -11:00p.m. NAGLE/KWWL STAGE Saturday: 9:30 -11:00p.m. NAGLE/KWWL STAGE Saturday: 8:30-10:00p.m. LINCOLN SAVINGS BANK STAGE Sunday: 4:00-5:30p.m. NAGLE/KWWL STAGE 15
AUTOGRAPHS THE LOGUES It has been described as ‘psycho ceilidh’, ‘whiskey-soaked folk’ and just plain old ‘partying music’ – whatever it is, The Logues have made the genre their own. From their humble beginnings in a sleepy County Tyrone village, they have become one of Ireland’s most sought-after live bands. The most progressive folk Signed to Ireland’s most respected live music booking band in Ireland. agency, AMA Music Agency (The Coronas, Paddy Casey, – AMA Music Agency Aslan) the band celebrate their 10th year on the road in 2016. After cutting their teeth on the live circuit from rural bars to sold out festivals in the Middle East, The Logues release their second studio album, Comin’ Of Age, on the One of the singles of the 29th of April.
Building on the success of their self-released debut album year…a band to watch. Tough at the Bottom (2011), the band entered Attica – Ocean FM recording studio in Donegal (Foy Vance, Villagers etc) in June 2014 to begin recording their next album, from which Fly Free is the current single. The dark, melodic love song is receiving high critical acclaim and extensive radio airplay throughout Ireland and the UK, with Ocean FM calling it Im loving this…great ‘one of the singles of the year’ and tipping The Logues as one of the bands to watch in 2015. Fly Free is now available vocals and arrangement. for download from iTunes and Amazon and for upcoming – Highland Radio gig news, follow the band on Facebook and Twitter. IOWA IRISH FEST IRISH DANCE WORKSHOP July 31-August 3, 2019 AGES 5 to 13
TAUGHT BY THE TRINITY IRISH DANCE COMPANY
Students perform Saturday at Iowa Irish Fest TO REGISTER, VISIT IowaIrishFest.com
Downtown Waterloo
PRESENTING SPONSOR 17 Family Fun & Learning Area
The Iowa Irish Fest Family Fun and Learning Area has amazing kid-friendly entertainment! Children 15 and younger are admitted to the Fest for free with a paid adult admission.
Be sure to visit the Family Fun and Learning Area MercyOne stage tent for one of our special workshops. You can learn about the Irish Language and get a lesson on how to play the penny whistle or the bodhrán drum with one of the 2019 Iowa Irish Fest bands! Have some fun learning to céilí dance or listening to one of our storytellers or musical presenters. You also have a chance to meet some of the Bremer County Bucks Rugby Team players and the Trinity Irish Dancers!
There are all kinds of fun crafts and games all weekend long! Come enjoy the inflatables, climbing rock wall or take part in our Family Area Games. Get creative in our craft area or visit with the balloon twister, and face painters.
Have fun in our Archeological Dig at our old castle ruins and become a Junior Archaeologist or add a leaf to our Irish Language Learning Tree.
Go on an adventure around the Fest with our Family Fun & Learning Area Passport challenge! Head out into the Fest grounds and look for the stops to learn something new and stamp your passport! Bring your completed passport back to the Family Fun & Learning Area and you’ll get a special Iowa Irish Fest reward!
In addition to our full stage schedule, we have the following special entertainment and workshops featured for 2019:
Activities: Intro to Athletics: Crafts & Games with Bremer County prizes! Bucks Rugby Balloon Twister Highland Games IRISH Rock Wall Gaelic Football WOLFHOUNDS Passport Challenge IN THE FAMILY AREA (NEAR ANTON’S GARDEN) Fun Inflatables Workshops with Band Members: Brought to you by Face Painters Isle Casino Hotel Waterloo Instrument Petting Zoo Irish Language with Seo Linn Rootbeer Floats! Boondocks Irish Wolfhounds (Nichols, IA.) Bodhrán Drum & Penny Trinity Irish Dancers Whistle The Irish Wolfhound dog breed was originally used in war Meet & Greet to drag men off horses and chariots. They also hunted Scythian Kids Show large game such as deer, boar, and wolves. Today this Irish Wolfhound adaptable dog is a family companion who also competes Meet & Greet Céilí Dancing with The Gothard Sisters in obedience, tracking, and lure coursing. Storytime Pipe Band Snare SEE SCHEDULE FOR DETAILS Drumming with The Logues ...and many other family friendly programs!
A huge thank you to our sponsors: MercyOne Boy Scouts Troop 13 Cedar Valley Catholic Schools Guernsey Foundation West Music Life 101.9 Pawsitive Petcare Waterloo Center for the Arts D&W Flooring Hearst Center for the Arts Fighter Body Fitness 18 CULTURAL VILLAGE
ÁILTE DON SRÁIDBHAILE Celtic Kitchen CULTÚRTHA NUA! Stop by the Celtic Kitchen and learn about traditional Irish Welcome to the new Cultural Village! We are cuisine, pick up a recipe or two and even catch a cooking excited to have the opportunityto expand the demonstration by one of our favorite local chefs. F former Cultural Events Center into the new Cultural Village this year. You can immerse yourself in Irish culture Spinners and Weaver’s Guild as you wander down our new Cultural Street. Watch blacksmiths, weavers, spinners and artists at work. Learn some new recipes from Get hands on with the Northeast Iowa Weavers and our local chefs, a few words as Gaeilge and read the works of Irish Spinners Guild. Try your hand on the four harness loom or authors past and present. Top off your visit with a stop at Dillon’s even help create the giant tapestry designed just for this Pub for a rest all while surrounded by the Irish music we love. year’s festival. You also might enjoy the friendly Irish wolfhounds, the many free music, language and dance workshops and even a sheep herding Dillon’s Pub demonstration on your visit. Take a break at Dillon’s Pub where we will be showing traditional Irish sports. We would also like to welcome Blacksmiths anyone who would like to participate in informal music sessions. Dillon’s Pub will be open to session players all Joining us for the third year are Lucky Clover Forge weekend so please feel free to bring your instrument along and Double Anvil Forge showing off their impressive and join in the fun. blacksmithing skills and even giving you the opportunity to get your hands dirty with some hands on training. The two forges will also be participating in a forging competition again this year so keep an eye out for the time as you won’t want to miss it! School Go back to school and learn about your own Irish history with our geneology expert or even pick up a cúpla focal as Gaeilge or couple of words in the Irish language with Rang Gaeilge San Cedar Valley and Gaeltacht Contae Linn. Dance Studio & Library Explore the Irish arts of dance and the written word in our dance studio and library areas. Art Gallery Visit the art gallery to view all of Gary Kelly’s art created especially for the Iowa Irish Fest as well as the art from this year’s live artist demonstrations. TRAD SESSIONS! Join us for a traditional Irish music open session! Everyone is welcome. Any musician who plays a traditional Irish instrument is welcome to play at any time, if a formal presentation is not in progress. FRIDAY AUGUST 2ND, 8PM DILLON’S PUB CALLING ALL SHEEP SEE REAL SHEEP HERDING DEMONSTRATIONS by Bolton’s Acres Away Farm
SUNDAY NORTHEAST 12:00-12:30pm SIDE OF 1:45-2:15pm LINCOLN 3:30-4:00pm PARK!
(attendees must bring instrument from home)
Irish Instruments
with Kiel Cathers - Black’s Building
MercyOne Stage & Black’s Building
Guitar Workshop re: Accompanying
Irish Dance Workshops • Meet & Greet
with Darrell Nelson - MercyOne Stage
Trinity Irish Dancers
Pipe Band Snare Drumming Workshop
AUG
The Logues Advanced Guitar Demo
Black’s Building
(attendees must bring instrument from home)
MercyOne Stage Guitar for Beginners
2-4 Black’s Building
Beginner/Children’s Bodhrán Drum Workshop
Shane Hennessy
during “The Troubles” in Belfast, Northern Ireland.
Stories and music related to Ian Gould’s personal experiences growing up
2019 with Stiofán Ó Fearail
Belfast Boy
Black’s Building Intro to Gaelic Football
MercyOne Stage
Ian Gould Irish Language for Adults
Black’s Building
Irish Language for Kids
MercyOne Stage
Two Céilí Dance Workshops
Seo Linn
Gothard Sisters
MercyOne Stage & Black’s Building
Children’s Program
MercyOne Stage
Q & A / Discussion Group
ARTISTBlack’s Building SERIES WORKSHOPS
with Alex Fedoryka (attendees must bring instrument from home)
Fiddle Workshop
Black’s Building
Gaelic Storm Workshops are free with your 2019 Iowa Irish Fest admission
Scythian
Q & A / Discussion Group
Elk’s Lodge
Q & A / Discussion Group
19th Street Band Rang Gaeilge San Cedar ValleyElk’s Lodge Dublin City Ramblers
Orphans The Journey of the Northern Irish Hillbilly - Black’s Building Screaming Irish Language for Beginners Black’s Building
A discussion about how Hillbillies are descendants of the Irish Billy Boys from Irish History
Northern Ireland, and withhow IrishDerek music Warfield and bluegrass - MercyOne music are Stage related. The Réalta Ballads and Songs in Irish
Black’s Building
workshopwith Demaris is history-based Woods - MercyOneand touches Stageon the art of songwriting.
Beginner/Children’s Tin Whistle Workshop
Uilleann Pipe Workshop Black’s Building
withwith LoïcFionán Bléjean de Barra & Conor - Black’s Lamb Building Bodhrán Drum Adults/Intermediate
ColmDerek Keegan Warfield and the Young Wolfe Tones
Tin Whistle Adult Workshop Black’s Building
Irish History MercyOne Stage Runawith Conor Lamb
Irish Mythology
Irish Mythology MercyOneMercyOne StageStage
with Conor Lamb
Irish History
MercyOne Stage Runa Tin Whistle Adult Workshop
Black’s Building DerekColm Keegan Warfield and the Young Wolfe Tones Bodhrán Drum Adults/Intermediate
withwith FionánLoïc Bléjean de Barra & Conor - Black’s Lamb Building Uilleann Pipe Workshop
Beginner/Children’s Tin Whistle Workshop Black’s Building
withworkshop Demaris is history-based Woods - MercyOne and touches Stage on the art of songwriting. Ballads and Songs in Irish Black’s Building Réalta
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The Journey of the Northern Irish Hillbilly
- Black’s Building Irish Language for Beginners
Screaming Orphans Black’s Building
Dublin City Ramblers Rang Gaeilge San Cedar Valley 19th Street Band Q & A / Discussion Group Elk’s Lodge Q & A / Discussion Group Elk’s Lodge
Scythian
Gaelic Storm Workshops are free with your 2019 Fiddle Iowa Workshop Irish Fest Black’sadmission Building
with Alex Fedoryka (attendees must bring instrument from home) WORKSHOPS Q & A / Discussion GroupARTIST Black’s Building SERIES Children’s Program MercyOne Stage Gothard Sisters MercyOne Stage & Black’s Building Seo Linn Two Céilí Dance Workshops Irish Language for Kids MercyOne Stage
Ian Gould Irish Language for Adults Black’s Building
Belfast Boy Black’s Building Intro to Gaelic Football MercyOne Stage
Stories and music related to Ian Gould’s2019 personal experiences growing up with Stiofán Ó Fearail during “The Troubles” in Belfast, Northern Ireland.
Beginner/Children’s Bodhrán Drum Workshop Shane Hennessy MercyOne Stage 2-4 Guitar for Beginners Black’s Building
(attendees must bring instrument from home)
The Logues Advanced Guitar Demo Black’s Building Pipe Band Snare DrummingAUG Workshop with Darrell Nelson - MercyOne Stage Trinity Irish Dancers Guitar Workshop re: Accompanying Irish Dance Workshops • Meet & Greet MercyOne Stage & Black’s Building Irish Instruments with Kiel Cathers - Black’s Building (attendees must bring instrument from home) See the Schedule for the days and times. AUG 2-4 2019 AUG 2-4 ARTIST SERIES WORKSHOPS Workshops2019 are free with your 2019 Iowa Irish Fest admission
19th Street Band Rang Gaeilge San Cedar Valley The Journey of the Northern Irish Hillbilly - Black’s Building Irish Language for Beginners Black’s Building A discussion about how Hillbillies are descendants of the Irish Billy Boys from Northern Ireland, and how Irish music and bluegrass music are related. The Réalta workshop is history-based and touches on the art of songwriting. ARTIST SERIES WORKSHOPS Uilleann Pipe Workshop Black’s Building Colm Keegan Workshops are free with your 2019 withIowa Loïc BléjeanIrish Fest& Conor admission Lamb Tin Whistle Adult Workshop Black’s Building Irish History MercyOne Stage with Conor Lamb 19th Irish Street Mythology Band MercyOne Stage Rang Gaeilge San Cedar Valley Runa Derek The Warfield Journey of and the theNorthern Young Irish Wolfe Hillbilly Tones - Black’s Building Irish Language for Beginners Black’s Building A discussion about how Hillbillies are descendants of the Irish Billy Boys from Bodhrán Drum Adults/Intermediate Beginner/Children’sNorthern Ireland, and how Irish music Tin Whistleand bluegrass Workshop music are related. The Réaltawith Fionán de Barra - Black’s Building withworkshop Demaris is history-based Woods - MercyOne and touches Stage on the art of songwriting. Ballads and Songs in Irish Black’s Building Uilleann Pipe Workshop Black’s Building Irish History with Derek Warfield - MercyOne Stage with Loïc Bléjean & Conor Lamb Colm Keegan Screaming Orphans Tin Whistle Adult Workshop Black’s Building Dublin Irish City History Ramblers MercyOne Stage Qwith & ConorA / Discussion Lamb Group Elk’s Lodge QIrish & A Mythology / Discussion MercyOne Group Stage Elk’s Lodge RunaScythian GaelicDerek WarfieldStorm and the Young Wolfe Tones BodhránFiddle Workshop Drum Adults/Intermediate Black’s Building with Alex Fedoryka (attendees must bring instrument from home) QBeginner/Children’s & A / Discussion Group Tin Whistle Black’s Building Workshop with Fionán de Barra - Black’s Building with Demaris Woods - MercyOne Stage BalladsChildren’s and Program Songs in MercyOne Irish Black’s Stage Building Gothard Irish SistersHistory MercyOnewith Derek StageWarfield & Black’s - MercyOne Building Stage ScreamingSeo Linn Orphans Two Céilí Dance Workshops Dublin City Ramblers QIrish & A Language / Discussion for GroupKids MercyOne Elk’s Lodge Stage Ian GouldQ & A / Discussion Group Elk’s Lodge Irish Language for Adults Black’s Building Scythian Belfast Boy Black’s Building Intro to Gaelic Football MercyOne Stage GaelicStories Storm and music related to Ian Gould’s personal experiences growing up Fiddlewith Stiofán Workshop Ó Fearail Black’s Building during “The Troubles” in Belfast, Northern Ireland. with Alex Fedoryka (attendees must bring instrument from home) Q & A / Discussion Group Black’s Building Shane Hennessy Beginner/Children’s Bodhrán Drum Workshop Children’s Program MercyOne Stage GothardMercyOne Sisters Stage MercyOne Stage & Black’s Building Guitar for Beginners Black’s Building Seo Linn(attendees must bring instrument from home) Two Céilí Dance Workshops The Logues IrishAdvanced Language Guitar for Demo Kids Black’s MercyOne Building Stage Ian GouldPipe Band Snare Drumming Workshop Trinity Irish Irish Language Dancers for Adults Black’s Building with Darrell Nelson - MercyOne Stage Intro to Gaelic Football MercyOne Stage Belfast Boy Black’s Building Irish Dance Workshops • Meet & Greet GuitarStories and Workshop music related to re: Ian Gould’sAccompanying personal experiences growing up with Stiofán Ó Fearail MercyOne Stage & Black’s Building Irishduring “The Instruments Troubles” in Belfast, with NorthernKiel Cathers Ireland. - Black’s Building (attendees Beginner/Children’s must bring instrument Bodhrán from home) Drum Workshop Shane Hennessy MercyOne Stage Guitar for Beginners Black’s Building (attendees must bring instrument from home) The Logues Advanced Guitar Demo Black’s Building Pipe Band Snare Drumming Workshop with Darrell Nelson - MercyOne Stage Trinity Irish Dancers Guitar Workshop re: Accompanying Irish Dance Workshops • Meet & Greet MercyOne Stage & Black’s Building Irish Instruments with Kiel Cathers - Black’s Building (attendees must bring instrument from home) 20
Elks Care, Elks Share
HAVE YOU HEARD THE NEWS? THE which winners advance to national levels. The same holds true ELKS ORGANIZATION POSTED ITS FIRST for youth golf Tournaments. One of the largest National Programs is the Drug Awareness MEMBERSHIP GAIN SINCE 1980! Program. The Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks welcomes What does this mean? It means the Benevolent and Protective you to the resource center for the Elks National Drug Awareness Order Of Elks can keep on doing their part by spending more Program - the largest volunteer drug awareness program in money on Elks programs in Elks communities, turning Elks the United States. We are very proud of our dedicated army of scholars into Champions of the Order. volunteers who freely give their time and talents to this most noble cause. The Elks are committed to eliminating the use and How? By giving money to the community programs such as Fire abuse of illegal drugs by all members of society and believe that Safety, Drug awareness, Shop with a Cop, Shop with a Firefighter, in order to ensure a bright future for our country, it is essential Veteran programs, youth programs and scholarships. that our children be raised in a drug-free environment.
The Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks is the 3rd largest Waterloo Elks Lodge has a large Veterans program. Each spring scholarship provider in the nation and recently, the local and fall volunteers travel to Marshalltown to assist in the fish Waterloo Iowa Lodge granted a $4,000.00 Scholarship to a fry and pork roast. Helping veterans to the lunch room and senior of the 2018 Graduating class. visiting with them. The lodge also has a luncheon in November, where hundreds of Veterans are bused in from nursing homes in The Waterloo Elks Lodge has given over $4.3 million dollars Northeast Iowa. The volunteers help them to remember they are back to the communities of the Cedar Valley. Including monies not forgotten. to the Black Hawk Veterans Affairs Office, the Waterloo Police Department and the Cedar Falls Fire Department this past year. One of the largest community programs the Waterloo Lodge has become involved with, is the Iowa Irish Fest. The Irish Fest stands This year the National Office has authorized another grant to the for the same roots as the Elks. Education of our youth, support local lodge grant list. This grant will be used for battling illiteracy for our local heroes and our Veterans. Waterloo Lodge is proud in the family. A local library will be assisting in this program. to be a part of the Irish Fest. Along with it the lodge will be again doing their part in helping community organizations with funding. So, come on down to the Waterloo Elks and ask what is going on and how can you get involved in the many programs offered The Waterloo lodge also sponsors a Hoop Shoot every January through the lodge. You will find it very rewarding.
Be sure to check out our Schedule Guide to see & attend the fun events hosted in the Elks Lodge! 21
MILITARY & FIRST RESPONDERS’ AREA
The Irish runs deep in those who serve. As the Irish started to migrate to the US, they would find work in the toughest jobs. Beginning mostly in big cities on the east coast, Irish would take on the toughest most dangerous job at the time - Policeman and Fireman. The same goes with the military. These migrants came to America to seek a better life, and with that they helped change the history here.
The 13th annual Iowa Irish fest is bringing something new to the Cedar Valley. A new area dedicated to the ones who are or have served. Our civil servants! The ones who are working home and abroad to keep us safe. From the Police, to the Fire Fighters – The EMT’s who do everything they can working in some of the toughest condition physically and mentally. And of course, the Veterans – active and honorably discharged. HEROES AREA HOURS SPECIAL CEREMONY Friday 2am-9pm, Saturday 2:30pm-3pm Saturday 10am-9pm, with a “Missing Man” recognition Our Missing Man ceremony will be presented Sunday 11am-5pm by USMC Scout Sniper Gunnery Sergeant Bob Livingston who served 5 tours in Vietnam; a recipient of a Silver Star, 2 Bronze Stars and 4 Purple Hearts.
WE THANK YOU! As well as getting in free to the fest this year, the Military and first responders will have access to:
We are excited to have some of the following Refreshments local organizations in our efforts to celebrate and support our Heroes: Educational opportunity American Legion of Waterloo for the kids Black Hawk County Veterans Association Cedar Falls and Evansdale Amvets An appreciation to the Cedar Valley Honor Flight spouses Crime Stoppers of Waterloo Grunt Style of Carol Stream Illinois Static displays of military Military OneSource from Des Moines equipment Retrieving Freedom of Waverly Waterloo Fire Department A few other surprises Waterloo Police K-9 Unit
Please remember to stop by! Located next to the Elks Club on Mulberry Street. 22
Saturday, August 3rd SCOTTY 2pm – 8pm Artist Stage RUSSELL
Perspective-Collective is the studio of Scotty Russell, a Waterloo native artist, speaker, and podcaster who stakes his claim in Cedar Falls, Iowa.
He injects a positive vibe and detailed punch in his illustrations, lettering, and murals. You’ll also find a steady theme of pizza, puns, cats, outer space and coffee in his work.
His mission is to use his podcast, The Perspective Podcast, to help creatives build killer side hustles outside their day jobs because we all deserve the chance to invest in our dreams.
In his spare time, you can catch him causing mischief with his cats Lucy and Flora and having grand adventures with his wife Emily and his son Little Scotty the 3rd. TIFFINI Saturday, August 3rd 10:45-11:30am KIELER Paint & Sip - Blacks Building
I’m naturally creative. I was just born that way (I bet it’s because of my Scottish ancestry). As a child, art brought me joy and contentment. It still does.
For me it’s never been about just painting a picture. It’s always been about emotion and expressing feelings. You could say a piece of my heart and part of my soul goes into each of my pieces. Truth is, they both get poured in, a lot.
I have a graphic design degree and I’m a Creative Director by day. I love that. But after-hours is when I fill my artistic soul.
My life isn’t simple or flat, it’s layered and textured. So is my art. Whether it’s something I’ve just got to express or something you’ve commissioned, each piece I create is an extension of myself.
Grab your whiskey and join us for Irish Fest’s first sip-and-paint event. Not an artist? No problem! Tiffini Kieler, a talented local artist, will be leading us through the steps to paint a one-of-kind Irish masterpiece. All painting supplies are provided by our awesome sponsor, AMPERAGE Marketing & Fundraising (where Tiffini also works as Creative Director). Check it out!
MICHAEL CARROLL MORE LIVE Celtic Rennaissance Artist ART! Works on display in the Blacks Building during Irish Fest!
24
WE LOVE OUR VOLUNTEERS Thank you for volunteering your time this weekend! It is only with the hard work of over 1,200 volunteers that the Iowa Irish Fest is a success each year. Thank you for your time and commitment to the Fest, we look forward to working with you next year! GO RAIBH MAITH AGAIBH
We roughly have 1400 volunteers. Volunteers start setting up a week prior to the fest with the majority of the volunteers being present for the three day festival. Volunteers handle everything from set up to tear down including helping monitor gates. Helping bands unload. Helping families with activities and games. You get to meet people from across the US and learn so much along with listening to great music all weekend!
WELCOME TO IOWA IRISH FEST Brian O’Brien CONSUL GENERAL OF IRELAND
The Iowa Irish Fest is privileged to have Consul General of Ireland Brian O’Brien as one of our honored guests for the 2019 Festival. We believe as our Fest grows and creates good relations with dignitaries like Mr. O’Brien it won’t only help our wonderful event but will help our community as well. We look forward to sharing our ideas and future vision of what we can do in the Cedar Valley with the help and network of Consul General Brian O’Brien!
General Brian O’Brien was appointed Consul General of Ireland to the Midwestern United States in December 2016. He is Ireland’s 22nd Consul to the region, since the office opened in 1933.
Brian is from Dromore, County Tyrone. He is from a farming background. He was educated at Drumlish Primary School and the Christian Brothers School, Omagh.
Brian completed a Law Degree (LLB) in Manchester, England in 2001. After graduation, he spent two years teaching in the Japanese High School system in Shizuoka prefecture Japan on Brian has had a number of roles in DFAT Headquarters including the Japan Exchange and Teaching (JET) programme. working on UN issues, Human Rights and Trade. Prior to assuming post in Chicago, Brian was deputy Director of the Asia Brian joined HSBC bank’s graduate programme in 2004 and Pacific unit in Dublin. worked in various locations including London and Istanbul. He also completed a degree in Financial Services while working for From his base in Chicago – a city with a strong Irish heritage - HSBC. Brian along with the Consulate team will be working to promote Ireland, Irish culture and Irish interests in the region and to Brian joined the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade in foster the long standing historical links between Ireland and the 2006. He was part of the team that established a bilateral Midwest. cooperation programme and set up Ireland’s first Embassy to Malawi in East Africa (2007-2012). He also served in Ireland’s Outside of work, Brian enjoys hiking, cycling and the outdoors. Embassy to New Delhi, India (2010-2012) which was also He is a keen surfer and snowboarder. He also enjoys Irish music accredited to Nepal, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh. and dance. Raffle Tickets $ Downtown Waterloo 5 August 2-4, 2019 3FOR $10 7 FOR $20 Get Your Raffle Tickets and WIN A WIN Trip to Ireland Round-Trip FOR TWO OR $ * Airfare 5,000 FOR TWO TO * WIN A Ireland Weekend Getaway TO THE Milwaukee Irish Fest*
A portion of the proceeds go to the [501c3] Cedar Valley Irish Cultural Association Drawing will be held on August 4, 2019 around 3:30 PM at Lincoln Park, Waterloo on the KWWL/Nagle Main Stage. Winner is responsible for any fees and taxes.
*OFFICIAL RULES 1ST WINNER Weekend getaway for two to the 2019 Milwaukee Irish fest August 15- 18th. Includes hotel stay $100 gas card, three day fast passes, $200 in drink and food Fest vouchers. Up to $1500 value. (Gas card +vouchers combined into $300 prepaid Visa Card). Hotel chosen by Iowa Irish Fest. 2ND WINNER Iowa Irish fest to determine reimbursement up to $2000 (upon receipt) when booking through Aer Lingus OR $2000 in Aer Lingus vouchers for airfare booking to Ireland. 3RD WINNER Up to $5000 towards trip to Ireland (when booking through Iowa Irish Fest’s selected travel agency) or choose cash option of $5000. Ifanameischosen2xoreven3xthewinnerwillreceivethegreater(financialvalue)oftheprizesavailable.Do not need to be present to win. 26
AMPERAGE Marketing & Fundraising Cedar Ridge Distillery Cedar Valley Medical Specialists Escapology · Ferguson Construction FIT/NLXF/Fighterbody Fitness Jameson’s · Marcus Theatres Newton’s Cafe · Veridian Credit Union 27 ANYTHING IRISH PHOTO CONTEST On display in the Blacks Building during the Fest!
ENTRIES ACCEPTED UNTIL FRIDAY, JULY 26TH
VISIT WWW.IOWAIRISHFEST.COM
WHAT ABOUT THE WEATHER?
While there is nothing much that we can do about the weather we can suggest the following:
1. The Iowa Irish Fest goes on rain or shine...come on down no matter what the forecast is!
2. We have a lot of tents, most stages are at least partially covered and there are a lot of adjacent buildings to go into.
3. If all else fails we have hundreds of ponchos (green even!) that are available at the merchandise tents.
4. Rainy fests can be great fun…meet new friends and wait it out.
5. …and it always stops raining eventually.
Our weather committee apologizes if their efforts fall short and thank you much for attending the 2019 Iowa Irish Festival! 28 29
A HUGE THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS FOR SUNDAY MASS:
ENNEDY INSULATION SYSTEMS, INC.
For more than 65 years, KWWL has been proud to serve the Cedar Valley and all of Eastern Iowa. We’re especially proud to support the Cedar Valley Irish Cultural Association and their premiere event - Irish Fest. Each year, Team KWWL looks forward to participating in these three days of “kilt-wearing, shamrock-shaking, pint-pouring fun” and celebrating Irish culture in Iowa.
So we hope you enjoy Irish Fest and remember, at KWWL, tá tú clúdaithe agat (We’ve Got You Covered). 30
WHETHER RUGGED CONNEMARA OR THE BRIGHT LIGHTS OF GALWAY CITY— THERE’S ALWAYS SOMETHING TO DO IN COUNTY GALWAY
Galway. Flush with festivals, crammed with coastline, home not just to as a vault, where Ireland’s traditions are stored safely against the one of the most energetic cities in the land, but the soulful Aran Islands march of time. Passing through the desolate yet beautiful Doo Lough and the great rocky wilderness of Connemara, too. and Delphi Valleys, the landscape tumbles down to the dark waters of Killary Harbour, a stunning fjord framed by olive-coloured mountains. The obvious first stop is the thriving city of Galway itself. Don’t make a It’s a sign that you’re somewhere very special Truth be told, this plan when you go walkabout here. Instead, go where the mood takes romantic region, with its old stone walls, ponies and wild landscape is you. Visitors can wander along the pedestrian-friendly shopping areas the very essence of Ireland: “Irish language, song, dance and literature past a tiny independent bookshop; welcoming pubs, an aquarium, or a are all o be found in abundance here,” says Paula Lydon from the city museum whose upper floors reveal a breathtaking view of the River Connemara Heritage and History Centre. And she’s not wrong. Corrib. What makes Connemara different? That’s easy. Traditions are No trip to Galway would be complete without a visit to the farmers everywhere. Everything from the food on your plate to the music market or to McCambridges - a grocer who specializes in Irish beating out of pubs is infused a unique cultural heritage. These products, where you can buy locally produced cheese and bread or traditions are also reflected in the language – Connemara is a join a walking Galway Food Tour to sample the finest Galway cuisine. Gaeltacht (Irish-speaking) region. You can have a go yourself by Saint Nicholas’ Medieval Church sits very near the Galway farmers’ practicing a few words “cupla focal”), or even doing a course, but if market. This historic church is reported to be the last stop where you don’t fancy it, don’t panic, everyone speaks English, too. Christopher Columbus stopped to pray before setting off on his Like we said, whether it is rugged Connemara or the bright lights of voyage to the New World. Galway City – there is always something to do in County Galway! For enthusiasts of Irish whiskey and spirits, the Micil Distillery provides an experience unique to Galway. Micil is Galway’s first distillery to open its doors in 100 years, currently producing Micil Poitin and Gin using local botanicals and old family recipes. The distillery is open to the public for tours in the Salthill neighborhood of Galway.
Of course, Galway is as much a city as a signpost for what lies beyond – and in this case, what lies beyond is an image of Ireland at its wildest.
Connemara is as much a coastal phenomenon, take a drive, and within a few hours you’ll be winging your way from Maam Cross to the harbor town of Clifden; or from the Gaeltacht village of Spiddal and the coral beach at Carraroe to a creamy bowl of chowder in Roundstone, an old harbor village on the windswept Ballyconneely Peninsula. You'll recognize a few places from your favorite films, too.
Nor does Galway stop at its westernmost shoreline. A short ferry or plane crossing from the mainland whisks you to the mythical Aran Islands: limestone outcrops dominated by sheer cliffs, stone walls, deserted beaches and iconic heritage sites like Dún Aonghasa. The 2,000- year-old fortress, scythed in half by encroaching erosion, has “wow” written all over it.
Located in the rugged west of Ireland, you could think of Connemara CHECK OUT THIS YEARS 31 IOWA IRISH FEST MERCHANDISE Take A Piece Of Iowa Irish Fest Home With You OPEN ALL WEEKEND NEAR THE CORNER OF
LIMITED PARK & MULBERRY EDITION IN FRONT OF THE ELKS LODGE TWO TABLES POSTERS & GARY KELLY IRISH FEST POSTERS, THIS YEAR COASTERS PRETTY GOOD CO. FEST POSTERS, BAG CHAIRS, COOKBOOKS, HATS, IRISH COFFEE MUGS, PINTS, SHIRTS, SHOT GLASSES, FLASKS, AND MORE! Thank You, Sponsors
Van G Miller Family Charitable Trust
Cedar Valley Medical SPECIALISTS, P.C.
CHRYSLER - DODGE - JEEP - RAM Cedar Falls & Waterloo, IA CHRYSLER • DODGE • JEEP • RAM Cedar Falls - Waterloo, IA
CHRYSLER • DODGE • JEEP • RAM Cedar Falls - Waterloo, IA
CHRYSLER • DODGE • JEEP • RAM Cedar Falls - Waterloo, IA
Action Services, LLC Don Hummer Trucking Huff Contracting, Inc. Nichols Home Improvement AHTS Architects Durham School Services IBEW Local 288 NXT Bank ASI Computer Energy Management Impact Marketing Office Concepts Systems, Inc. Consultants Isle Casino Hotel® Waterloo Plumb Tech, Inc. Black Hawk Roof Company Escapology Cedar Falls Kennedy Insulation Regions Bank C&S Car Company Europa Cycle & Ski Systems, Inc. RE/MAX, LLC Cedar Falls Ferguson Enterprises, LLC Kimball Beecher Servpro of Black Hawk Parks and Recreation Flowerama Family Dentistry County Cedar Ridge Distillery Green Iowa AmeriCorps Manatts Southern Glazers Cedar Valley Process Greenwood Family Marcus Theatres Wine & Spirits Service, LLC of Pharmacies McLaughlin Investments Special Occasions Clark, Butler, Walsh & Hagarty-Waychoff-Grarup Mike Burns Family Party & Event Rental Hamann Law Firm Funeral Services Mike Fereday Heating UAW Local 838 Community Harrison Truck Centers & Air Conditioning Viking Pump, Inc. Bank & Trust Hawkeye Alarm Milestone Home Waterloo Con Agra Foods, Inc. Health Partners Inspection, LLC Leisure Services Cozy Van Wheelchair Hoffman & Hoffman Monat Wealth Management Woodruff Construction and Stretcher Service Trenching National Cattle Congress Dolan Concrete
For a full list of sponsors, please see IowaIrishFest.com