Almonte Celtfest Celebrates 16th Year Showcasing Amazing Ottawa Valley Talent and Guests From U.S

Almonte Celtfest, July 6-8, celebrates the music, song and dance traditions of the Ottawa-Ottawa Valley region. This 16th annual festival of Valley talent is thrilled to have as special guests, The Elders as main stage headliners for this year’s festival. Since forming in 1998, The Elders have set the Celtic-rock world internationally on its ear thanks to a mix of stories of Irish history, traditional instrumentation fueled by creative energy and a superb stage presence, and a unique sound that “falls somewhere between Van Morrison and U2”. The Elders have been called "One of the best, if not THE best Irish rock band in America" (Joe Farrell on "Celtic Crossings" Hot Talk 1510 AM) Another reviewer states “Forget everything you think you know about Irish music. This isn’t your father’s version of “Danny Boy,” and you don’t have to dance a jig to keep time to every tune. States Elders band member Steve Phillips, “It’s got enough Irish to pass for Irish, but it’s definitely rock ‘n’ roll and folk, too.” Steve (guitar, mandolin, vocals) is joined onstage by Ian Byrne – vocals, percussion, whistle, flute, Norm Dahlor – bass, guitar, banjo, vocals Brent Hoad – fiddle, mandolin, guitar, vocals, Joe Miquelon – accordion, keyboards, and Kian Byrne – drums, bass. The Elders take to the main stage July 7th Saturday night, and as closers of the festival, on, Sunday afternoon.

Celtfest commences on Friday night with music in area pubs and Saturday morning with Celtfest College instrument workshops (check www.almonteceltfest.com for listings) Gemmill Park’s Main Stage events commence on Saturday at 2:00 pm with Opening Ceremonies and run continuously until dusk with The Barley Shakers, Les mots dits Anglais, Elly Squared, Cindy Thompson & Jake Butineau, Julie Fitzgerald & Friends, Brandy ‘n’ Port, and The Elders. 

Celtfest Sunday begins at 10:30 am with an “everyone welcome” Fiddle Mass at Holy Name of Mary Catholic Church. The Main Stage festival commences at Noon in Gemmill Park and extends to 6pm with the Monday Night Fiddlers, Triple Trouble,Dai Bassett, Celtic Cross Dancers, Neil McDaniel with Kyle Felhaver, Salty Dog and The Elders closing of the weekend.

Almonte downtown, and Gemmill Park are about 2 blocks from each other and are wonderful settings for Celtfest 2012. The shops, pub/restaurants and The Riverwalk are great complements to the activities in Gemmill Park. The festival site features artisans, children’s activities and an open “jam” session for all who bring instruments and great food and beverages for all. Come and celebrate the “unofficial” kick-off to summer in the Ottawa Valley. For more info see www.almonteceltfest.com .