Excelsior Springs, MO — The Excelsior Springs Irish Festival is back for its second year, promising a full weekend of live entertainment celebrating the rich traditions of Irish and Celtic music, dance, and culture. Held October 4–5 at Shamrock Hills Vineyard and Winery, this family-friendly event will feature a carefully curated lineup of performers who bring both heritage and high energy to the stage.
From traditional bagpipes and Irish step dancing to soulful ballads and modern folk-rock, this year’s festival showcases a diverse mix of performers sure to entertain festivalgoers of all ages.
Saturday Performers – October 4 (1:00 PM – 7:00 PM)
The music begins Saturday with Eddie Delahunt, a Dublin-born, Kansas City-based artist known for his engaging mix of traditional Irish ballads and original songwriting. Delahunt, a staple in the Midwest Irish music scene since 1989, will take the stage at both 1:15 and 3:00 PM.
At 2:30 PM, festivalgoers can enjoy a performance by the O’Riada-Manning Academy of Irish Dance, Kansas City’s original certified Irish dance school. Known for their expert instruction and spirited performances, the group will showcase both traditional and modern Irish dance styles.
At 4:15 PM, the Stolen Apples bring a high-energy blend of traditional Irish music, world influences, and original compositions. The trio, featuring Eddie Edwards, Keith Van Winkle, and Chris Carr, offers decades of combined experience and multi-instrumental talent.
Closing out Saturday’s performances at 5:45 PM is The Canterberries, an indie folk trio made up of lifelong friends. With tight harmonies and heartfelt lyrics, their set offers a fresh, contemporary sound rooted in friendship and musical connection.
Sunday Performers – October 5 (1:00 PM – 6:00 PM)
Sunday kicks off at 1:00 PM with a stirring performance by St. Andrew’s Pipe and Drum, a Kansas City institution for more than 60 years. Known for preserving the traditional music of Scotland, their full ensemble of bagpipes and drums will offer a powerful and moving start to the day.
The stage then welcomes And So It Goes, performing sets at 1:15 and 2:35 PM. This Kansas City-based group features seasoned musicians Michael Dugger, David Agee, Dennis Lucas, and Robert Sommer, blending jigs, reels, and ballads in rich Irish arrangements.
At 3:45 PM, festivalgoers can experience The Biscuit Boys of KC, a Celtic folk group known for fusing traditional Scottish and Irish music with contemporary flair. Their performances have been a hit at festivals across the region, and their multi-instrumentalist lineup promises an engaging set.
Closing out the festival at 4:55 PM is Kian Byrne and Friends. A multi-instrumentalist and songwriter from Kansas City, Byrne blends folk, rock, and Irish influences. With roots on both the Irish and Mexican sides of his family, Byrne’s music reflects a wide range of cultural styles and experiences. Known for his work with The Elders and other local bands, Byrne will deliver a high-energy finale that celebrates both tradition and evolution in Irish music.
Tickets and Location
The festival will be held at Shamrock Hills Vineyard and Winery, located at 12300 Shoemaker Rd., Excelsior Springs, MO.
- 1-Day Tickets: $20
- 2-Day Pass: $30
- Children 12 and under: Free
Tickets are available now at http://bit.ly/46uzw0J
In addition to music and dance, the festival includes food from Donnici’s Italian Deli & Market, artisan vendors, and family-friendly activities. The event is rain or shine.
Sponsors of this year’s festival include:
American Legacy Construction (ALC), Chuck Anderson Ford, Control Service Company, Excelsior Springs Area Chamber of Commerce, Excelsior Citizen, Gann Asphalt & Concrete, Inc., Itchin 2 Go Travel and Tours, Shamrock Hills Vineyard and Winery, The Shamrock Ranch, and Triple A Disposal.
For more information and a full schedule of events, follow the Excelsior Springs Irish Festival on Facebook or visit the festival website.
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