Despite ongoing construction and occasional showers, the Florida Keys Celtic Festival shattered expectations, packing Marathon Community Park on Jan. 10 and 11 for a celebration of faith, tunes and tradition.
Organizers told the Weekly the festival’s Saturday attendance was the highest ever recorded in the event’s 13-year history. With the tunes of the Screaming Orphans, Albannach, Sean Heely Band, Piper Jones band and more filling the air, guests visited dozens of vendors, watched sheepherding mastery, cheered on feats of strength in the Highland Athletic Games, and ate and drank as much as they could muster.
Little ones played in the Children’s Glen or made new friends at the Pop-Up Ponies petting zoo, while Try-It clinics throughout the festival gave guests hands-on experiences in art, dance, Scottish athletic contests and more.
Organized by St. Columba Episcopal Church, proceeds from the festival benefit the Hammock House – providing a safe, secure and enjoyable environment for children by offering recreational and educational experiences at no cost to families.
