We're busy planning a rainbow-stretching range of engaging activities (although we can't promise a pot of gold at the end of them...or can we?) for our festival goers to enjoy in 2010- and that includes for the wee ones as well!  Check back soon for the full line up.  In the mean time, browse our activites from last year to get a feel for the greatness of this waterfront cultural event!

 

Celebrate Guinness' 250th Anniversary

 

The Guinness brewers from their Dublin base at the global beer center of excellence have handcrafted a remarkable new stout for you to enjoy with us on the occasion of their 250th anniversary. Come celebrate with a pint or two of this special, limited-edition brew.


   
"Pour Your Own Pint"

 

Learn from the best - Guinness ambassadors will be on-hand to teach consumers how to perform the essential two-part pour and enjoy their own pint of Guinness.


   
The Irish Marketplace

 

Browse the expanded Marketplace, featuring such finds as family coats of arms, Irish teas, personalized pub paintings, Irish, Celtic and Scottish wares, fine Irish jewelry, Celtic stone works, historical and picture books, Irish flags and more.


   
The “Rainbow’s End” kidSTOP

 

In this special section, the wee folk in your clan get to show their Irish colors - decorate a top hat or step-dancer’s headdress, design your very own Magic Shamrock, draw up clover all over in the Irish Chalk Garden, and take home your very own Celtic Maze rubbing!


   
The Gig Rig Returns

 

Step up to the Guinness Gig Rig and enjoy the perfect pint, or try a famous Black & Tan, with Harp Lager and Guinness Stout.


   
Irish Pub Selections

 

Enjoy an assorted offering of great traditional Irish pub fare, including Bangers & Mash, Fish & Chips, Corned Beef Dinners, Shepherd’s Pie, Spiral Potatoes, Fried Oysters, Kettle Korn and more.


   
Indoor Center Stage

 

This year, headlining acts will be performing in our covered Main Stage concert venue, with 400 seats out of the sun and weather.


   

 

Irish Wolfhound Association

 

Though an exact point of origin has yet to be identified, the Irish Wolfhound is an ancient dog breed that is still shrouded in some degree of mystery and legend. They are the tallest dog breed on average, and are prized for their remarkable size, gentle temperament and loyalty to their owners. Their size, speed and intelligence made them ideal wolf-hunting dogs, from which their name is derived, but the Irish Wolfhound was also effective in protecting flocks and guarding homes. Nearly made extinct in the mid-19th century due to its popularity among royalty, the Irish Wolfhound was slowly rebred and its numbers again grew, though it still remains one of the most mysterious and fascinating breeds in existence today. At this year’s Irish Festival, you’ll have the chance to learn about and meet these magnificent and historical creatures.


   
Nevin Academy Step-Dancers

 

Witness stunning dance artistry from solo and Ceili teams.


   
Pipe & Drum Ensembles

 

See inspirational performances by local and national Pipe & Drum units.


   
Museum of Newport Irish History

 

Recognize the contributions of Irish descendants in Newport County.


   
Irish Wares Fashion Show

 

A vibrant showcase of clothing and goods available in the Marketplace.