WATERLOO — Iowa Irish Fest will celebrate its 18th birthday in August, and organizers made their first big announcement of the year on Wednesday.
The festival’s committee unveiled the hand-picked barrel whiskey that will be available at the event, which runs Aug. 2-4.
Chad Shipman, director of Irish Fest, has wanted to have a “barrel pick” for years, and now the dream has become a reality.
The liquor from Keeper’s Heart Whiskey, based in Minneapolis, is a blend of both Irish and American whiskeys.
Rory Dolan, new president of the Cedar Valley Irish Cultural Association, which organizes the event, is proud of how far the festival has come.
“In the Cedar Valley, in the state of Iowa, we have created something that is just unheard of,” he said. “From a back alley with a couple guys getting together to what we’ve done, it’s amazing.”
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Dolan assumed the role as president after co-founder Jim Walsh died in October. The two were great friends, and he hopes to keep the spirit alive in the first Irish Fest since Walsh’s death.
“Let’s not let Jim’s dream of the Irish Fest, or the overwhelming love of people, let’s not let it die,” he said. “Let’s honor him by keeping his vision of fostering community spirit and the vibrant essence of his beloved Cedar Valley.”
Last year, 37,000 people visited the festival that spans 12 blocks in downtown Waterloo. The event is intended to foster fellowship and community outreach through Irish cultural events and programs. It is presented by Veridian Credit Union. Shipman also unveiled that Hy-Vee will be a new premier partner.
The event brought $1.4 million of economic impact to downtown last year. Although Irish Fest takes place in Waterloo, Cedar Falls Mayor Danny Laudick said he is excited for his city to become more involved.
“These types of events are one of those anchor things that bring this community together,” he said.
Three Celtic bands will headline the stages. Scythian plays Friday night, Enter the Haggis on Saturday and The High Kings on Sunday.
A plethora of other musical acts and other entertainment will perform across seven stages.
The event also has a family fun and learning area; Irish cultural area; ShamRock ‘n’ Run; a bicycle rally; workshops on Irish dance, music, language and culture; whiskey tasting; rugby tournament; motorcycle ride; Catholic Mass; Celtic vendors; and food and drink vendors.
The Iowa Irish Fest App, available in the Apple App Store and the Google Play Store, provides a full schedule of events, a map and more. An Iowa Irish Fest Spotify playlist is available with a QR code.
For more information, go online to IowaIrishFest.com.