Excelsior Springs, MO — With clear skies overhead and music in the air, the 2nd Annual Excelsior Springs Irish Festival brought a vibrant celebration of Celtic culture to Shamrock Hills Vineyard and Winery and The Shamrock Ranch this past weekend. The event, held over two days, showcased the best of Irish music, dance, food, and community, drawing a lively and enthusiastic crowd from across the region.
The festival grounds, nestled into the natural slope of the vineyard with a pavilion that opens to a scenic pond, provided a unique and picturesque setting unlike any other in the area. Attendees spread out on lawn chairs and blankets, soaking up the sunshine and the rich sounds of traditional and modern Irish music.
A Lineup Full of Talent
The entertainment was a major highlight, featuring some of the region’s top Celtic performers. Beloved Kansas City musician Eddie Delahunt opened the festival Saturday afternoon, welcoming guests with his signature blend of Irish ballads, jigs, and storytelling. His set was followed by a high-energy performance from the O’Riada-Manning School of Irish Dance, whose precision footwork captivated the crowd.
As the day continued, The Stolen Apples Band brought their progressive traditional sound to the stage, weaving together global influences with deep Irish roots. The band, which has been traveling extensively, shared with the audience their joy in bringing Irish music to communities like Excelsior Springs.
Closing out Saturday’s festivities was The Canterberries, a trio of lifelong friends whose harmonies and heartfelt originals had the audience singing along. Their performance capped off a day of music that festivalgoers were reluctant to see end.
Sunday began with the dramatic entrance of the Kansas City St. Andrew Pipes and Drums, who descended the hill into the pavilion, setting the tone for a second day of lively celebration. And So It Goes, a returning act familiar to local winery guests, followed with a rich blend of jigs, reels, and ballads.
The Biscuit Boys offered a full-band experience complete with bagpipes, flutes, guitar, and percussion. Their set included special appearances from the St. Andrew Dancers, who added movement and energy to several songs. Concluding the weekend was Kian Byrne, who brought a blend of folk, rock, and traditional Irish music to the stage; closing the festival with rhythm, heart, and a crowd eager for more.
Throughout the weekend, several performers received enthusiastic applause and calls from the audience to return in future years.
Local Flavor and Community Support
Festivalgoers didn’t go hungry thanks to Donnici’s Italian Deli & Market, which returned for another year serving hot Reubens and pastrami sandwiches that were in high demand all weekend. Restless Spirits Distilling Company of North Kansas City offered whiskey and gin tastings, adding an authentic Irish flair to the beverage menu.
The festival also served as a real-world learning experience for students from the Excelsior Springs Job Corps Center, whose Security Trade program students helped with bag checks, accessibility, and keeping the grounds secure. Their professionalism and assistance were noted by many guests throughout the event.
Excelsior Springs Mayor Mark Spohn returned as emcee, keeping the event on schedule and helping introduce the wide array of talent with charm and consistency.
With perfect weather, a scenic venue, and outstanding performances, the 2025 Excelsior Springs Irish Festival was another successful chapter in what is quickly becoming a beloved annual tradition.
As the final notes faded and the crowd made their way home, one sentiment lingered in the air: “Slán go fóill”—bye for now.
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