Article Contributed by Denise Lamott
Published on 2026-04-10
Photo: Courtesy of Marin Irish Festival
The Marin Irish Festival returns to Lagoon Park at the Marin County Fairgrounds on May 16–17, 2026, inviting the Bay Area to a joyful Beltane celebration of Irish music, dance, food, and tradition. Produced by Red Barn Productions, creators of The Great Dickens Christmas Fair and the original Renaissance Pleasure Faire, the festival offers a full weekend of performances, hands-on cultural experiences, and family-friendly fun, all rooted in Irish heritage.
Beltane, the ancient Celtic festival marking the arrival of summer, inspires a weekend filled with maypoles, lively tunes, and revelry. Festivalgoers can explore six stage areas featuring live entertainment, including acclaimed Irish musicians, high-energy dance performances, a dance competition, storytelling, and a free children’s game area.
More than 40 craft vendors will offer handcrafted and rare goods, while food vendors serve classic Irish fare such as corned beef and cabbage, shepherd’s pie, fish and chips, and sweet treats, along with pints of Guinness, locally brewed ales, hard ciders, and soft drinks.
The Return of The Ceílí on the Lake Championships
Back by popular demand, the festival will once again host an authentic feis (pronounced fesh)—a fully sanctioned Irish dance competition in partnership with the Jackie Flynn Irish Dance Academy. The Ceílí on the Lake Championships (pronounced KAY-lee) brings dancers of all ages together to compete for the coveted Champion of Champions title. Dancers can learn more and register to compete at marinirishfestival.com/feis.
In addition to watching the formal competition, festival attendees are invited to join open set dancing sessions led by instructors throughout the weekend.
Live Music & Open Seisiúin
The 2026 lineup includes renowned Irish music acts such as The Black Brothers, The Black Irish Band, Avalon Rising, Ceol sa Cheo, Paddy on the Binge, and more. For the latest entertainment line-up, click here.
Musicians of all ages and skill levels are invited to participate in open seisiúin (pronounced seh-SHOON)—open jam sessions—inside the Bearded Goose Pub, a relaxed, communal setting celebrating the shared joy of Irish music.
Cultural Demonstrations & Interactive Experiences
Beyond music and dance, the festival offers immersive cultural experiences, including:
United Irish Cultural Center (UICC): Showcasing the “Keepers of the Steps” exhibit and activities, along with hard-to-find Irish imports, including rare books and traditional salty and sweet treats.
Falcon’s Court: A captivating birds-of-prey environment featuring falcons, owls, and hawks. Guests will have the opportunity to meet these majestic raptors up close, with the option to hold them and take photos in exchange for a suggested donation.
Beginner Irish Language Workshop: Festivalgoers can learn basic phrases and a poem or song (or two) at the Poet’s Corner.
San Francisco Gaelic Athletic Association (SFGAA): Demonstrating fast-paced 5v5 blitz matches, hurling, Gaelic football, and Camogie (pronounced kuh-MOH-gee), an Irish stick-and-ball team sport played by women.
Marin 4-H: An interactive and up-close opportunity to meet Marin County’s young agricultural leaders and the rabbits, chickens, and cows they expertly raise and show.
An Expansive Marketplace & Two Irish Pubs
The festival marketplace showcases Irish craftsmanship, including jewelry, textiles, ceramics, artwork, and traditional goods. Returning favorites include the Bearded Goose Irish Pub, joined this year by a second pub, The Gander, offering even more space to enjoy drinks, music, and camaraderie.
“The Marin Irish Festival brings people together through shared traditions, storytelling, and celebration,” said event producer Drew Patterson. “Whether you’re honoring your heritage or discovering Irish culture for the first time, it’s a weekend filled with connection, music, and fun.”
Festival Details
What: Marin Irish Festival & Ceílí on the Lake Championships
Where: Lagoon Park, Marin County Fairgrounds; 110 Armory Dr, San Rafael, CA 94903
When: Saturday & Sunday, May 16–17, 2026 | 10 a.m.–6 p.m.
Tickets: Available now at tickets.marincenter.org
Single day tickets: $30 adults | $15 children (ages 5–11)
Two-day weekend pass: $50 adults | $25 children (ages 5–11)
Parking: Free onsite and street
More Info & Tickets: marinirishfestival.com
