4-day celebration of Irish culture on the lakefront

Milwaukee’s Annual Irish Fest

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) — Milwaukee is known as the city of festivals, and this reputation is well-deserved. Every weekend, the lakefront is home to a new festival. The Milwaukee Irish Fest is one of the most popular festivals in the country, and it is returning for its 43rd year starting on Thursday, Aug. 17.

Milwaukee Irish Fest is one of the largest Irish festivals in the United States. Celtic artists and performers come all the way from Ireland to offer a taste of new and old Irish culture. Orla Begley, who came all the way from Drogheda, Ireland, is interning for the festival and is thrilled to be part of the experience.

“It’s amazing, the festival is,” said Begley. “I think people in Ireland would be really proud that it’s celebrated so widely over here.”

The festival offers a wide range of attractions, from music to food and drinks. Approximately 8,000 Jameson Lemonade slushies are sold in just four days, and Gilles sells 100 gallons of its Irish-whiskey-flavored custard. This year, they have even created a custard using Five Farms Irish Cream Liqueur.

In addition to food and drinks, there are various activities and contests for all ages. Children can enjoy the leprechaun village and participate in activities for free if they are ten years old or under. There are also culture tents and fun games for both kids and adults, such as the red hair and freckle contests.

The festival relies on the help of 4,000 volunteers to make it a success. Milwaukee Irish Fest runs through Sunday, Aug. 20. For more information and a full list of promotions, visit the festival’s official website.