Each of these bands is rooted in a different tradition, and each brings new vitality to those roots. Ireland, Newfoundland, Ottawa Valley and Cape Breton…it doesn’t get any better than this.
Across the Sea to Ireland
We give a nod to the Irish as Tommy Makem’s boys and Allan Kelly’s gang swap songs and tunes from the old country. You’ll swear you were across the sea.
See Related: Isle Madame and area, October 8
Songs of Sea and Shore
There’s something about living on an island that shapes our vision. Tonight is all about songs.. songs from Ireland, Scotland and our own Island home.
See Related: Gaelic, October 8, Sydney and area
Harp Strings
There will be harps galore in the hall tonight. They’ll be with ensembles, as accompaniment, solo and en masse. Fortunately you can never get too many harps.
See Related: October 8, St. Ann's and area
Fiddling Families
Fiddling tends to run in families. In Cape Breton it’s the Beatons and in PEI it’s the Chaissons. Tonight they renew their friendship and swap their tunes in the place where the fiddle is king.
See Related: Judique and area, Mabou and area, October 8
Our Gaelic Kids: Ar Clann Ghàidhealach
Gaelic is on the rebound and today we see the evidence. Kids from the core Gaelic program join with elders and professionals for an afternoon that will make your heart jump for joy.
See Related: Gaelic, Iona and area, October 8
Festival Club
Located at the Gaelic College in St. Ann’s, the licensed Festival Club offers an opportunity for artists to showcase in a more informal setting, as well as get a session in with friends and colleagues from near and far.
See Related: Baddeck and area, October 8, St. Ann's and area
Historical Walk in “downtown” Boisdale
A guided walk through the Boisdale hills, with accompanying stories and local history.
See Related: Iona and area, October 8, Outdoor Events, Sydney and area


