Seamus Kennedy, an Irish musician and singer, will be headlining the festival. Known for his comedy as well as music, Kennedy has been entertaining crowds across the U.S. for more than 30 years.
"He has a really unique style," said Patrick Bowling, communications director for the Irish Heritage Foundation of Gettysburg. "He mixes humor and music."
Kennedy often has crowds sing along with him and is known for his audience interaction.
"He likes to rib people in a good way," Bowling said.
There are four musical acts set to perform at the festival. Local band Irishtown Road will be playing both original and traditional tunes. Formed in 1997, the six-member band has released three albums.
Across the Pond is an acoustic trio and a new local band formed in 2010 and describes themselves as traditional Celtic folk music. The band Kilshanny from the Washington, D.C., area will also perform. This year there will be a wide variety of Irish vendors in addition to the musical entertainment, making the event a festival instead of just a concert as it has been in previous years.
"We've been trying to mix things up," Bowling said. "It's going to be a larger event overall."
Vendors will be selling jewelry, clothing, teas, photos and paintings. Bowling said items will be similar to those found in an Irish gift shop. The local chapter of the Ancient Order of Hibernians will be selling Guinness and other beers for thirsty Festival-goers.
Last year around 700 people came to the event, but this year Bowling expects at least a thousand. He said the festival is family orientated and children especially are welcome.
"Over the years people have referred to our festival as a overgrown family reunion," Bowling said. "It's a family friendly event. Anyone is welcome."
Bowling estimates around 15 percent of people in the area have Irish roots. The Gettysburg foundation hosts the festival as a tribute to Irish heritage.
"I think the Irish throughout the history of the U.S. have made a significant contribution to what America has turned into," Bowling said. Although many festival visitors are Irish, Bowling said you don't have to be to enjoy the music.
"A lot of people just like relaxing on a Saturday afternoon and being able to listen to music in an outdoor setting," Bowling said.
CAIA CALDWELL,
for FlipSide
If you go
WHAT: Adams County Irish Festival
WHEN: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday
WHERE: Moose Park, 100 Moose Road, Gettysburg
COST: $10, children younger than 12 admitted free
DETAILS: Festival will be held rain or shine.
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