Annapolis Irish Festival July 12th & 13th

We love the Annapolis Irish Festival!  This fun event is happening July 12th and 13th.  The festival itself is a few minutes outside of town in Crownsville at the Anne Arundle County Fairgrounds.  The festival has everything you need for summer fun, whether you are Irish or not.  The Annapolis Irish Festival has live music, workshops, exhibits, a children's area, and great food.  It is an Irish event you don't want to miss.

Here are some of the bands playing at this year's festival:

• Gaelic Storm.  They have a #1 Billboard World Album Chicken Boxer with empowering anthems and traditional ballads. They incorporate rock into their sound which gives them a crossover appeal.  With more than 1 million albums sold Gaelic Storm's music will be enjoyed by traditional Irish music lovers and first timers.
• Albannach.  This Scottish group produces exciting, up beat music with talented drummers and a piper.  They have a modern spin on traditional music that is sure to excite the crowd.
• Scythian.  This band has a punk rock sensibility with rousing and raucous Celtic and world music.  With classically trained fiddlers, rhythm guitar, accordion, and a jazz percussionist combine for an adrenaline pumping show.
• Dublin 5.  This group was formerly known as The Rovers and was established in 2006.  They produce a high octane show with fans from all ages and walks of life.  Local to Annapolis, they've established themselves as festival favorites nationwide.  Be sure to catch their show and you'll know why!
• Screaming Orphans.  These four sisters are from Donegal, Ireland and grew up playing backup to their mom's Irish band.  Playing since they were kids these ladies live and breath Irish music.  They are only musical orphans since mom is no longer their lead singer.
• Kilmaine Saints.  This pipe and drum band started playing Celtic music for beer.  They are equal parts Irish swagger, Scottish pride and whiskey.  
• Gothard Sisters.  If you love Irish music and dancing this is a show you don't want to miss.  They are champion Irish dancers that sing, play and dance together - winning competitions and wowing crowds across the world.
• Seamus Kennedy.  This Irish entertainer puts on a diverse show.  As a musician, singer, comedian and entertainer he is a lot of fun for the entire family.
• Crossing Celtic.  This is an Irish band with a country twist.  Fans of country music will love the pairing and find themselves tapping along.
• Brendan's Voyage.  A lively, classic performance keeps the audience clapping when Brendan's Voyage is on stage.  This band has been together since the 90's and has been wowing audiences ever since.
• The Rogues. This group has been capturing audiences since 1994 with well played pipes and driving percussion.  They have their own theater show and have performed throughout the world.

Live music is only one reason to come to the Annapolis Irish Music Festival.  Kids can have fun on a pony ride, playing in the large kids area, or getting their face painted.  Those interested in learning more about their Irish heritage can attend one of the workshops or visit one of the many vendors.  Irish Traditions will be at this year's festival and we encourage you to buy tickets now so you don't miss out on your favorite band.