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August 7, 2026
Event date:
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August 9, 2026
Event end:
Overview
The Twin Cities Irish Fest, formerly known as the Irish Fair of Minnesota, is a premiere three day celebration of Irish heritage and culture held on the banks of the Mississippi River. As one of the largest and most authentic Irish festivals in the United States, it transforms St. Paul’s Harriet Island into a vibrant emerald isle of music, dance, and community spirit. In 2026, the festival adopts its new name to better reflect its growing connection to the entire metropolitan area while maintaining its forty year legacy of preserving Irish traditions through joy and discovery.
The 2026 edition features a massive lineup of international and local entertainers across multiple outdoor stages, ranging from high energy Celtic rock and bluegrass to traditional folk and contemporary pop. Attendees can immerse themselves in the rhythmic thunder of championship Irish dance performances, participate in cultural workshops, or explore the expansive grounds filled with authentic experiences. The festival is a 501(c)(3) charitable nonprofit dedicated to fostering a spirit of “good craic” where everyone is invited to be Irish for the weekend.
Beyond the music, the festival is a culinary and social powerhouse, featuring dozens of food vendors serving traditional staples like corned beef, bangers and mash, and freshly baked scones alongside local craft beers. The grounds include a dedicated family area with interactive games, a massive marketplace of imported Irish goods, and special cultural exhibits. Whether you are there for the headlining concerts or the quiet storytelling in the cultural tent, the Twin Cities Irish Fest offers a deep, authentic dive into the soul of Ireland in the heart of Minnesota.
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Event Highlights
- Continuous live performances across multiple stages featuring international Celtic headliners like Gaelic Storm, The High Kings, and Biird.
- The showcase of championship Irish dance schools, featuring intricate footwork and traditional costumes from the region’s top performers.
- The Cultural Tent providing immersive workshops in Irish language, genealogy, and traditional crafts like lace making and woodcarving.
- The massive Irish Marketplace featuring authentic imported jewelry, textiles, and unique handmade goods from local and international artisans.
Why Attend
The Twin Cities Irish Fest is an ideal destination for families and culture seekers who want to experience a world class festival that is widely recognized as one of the most family friendly events in Minnesota. The benefit of attending in 2026 is the chance to be part of a historic new chapter for the festival as it unveils expanded programming and a refreshed identity. It offers a rare opportunity to see top tier international talent for a fraction of the cost of a concert tour, all within the scenic outdoor beauty of Harriet Island.
Attending this festival allows you to celebrate community and heritage in a highly inclusive environment where the mission is to bring people together through the spirit of discovery. For adults, the festival provides a legendary social experience with dedicated beverage areas and high energy evening sets. For families, the youth activities and interactive exhibits ensure that children stay entertained while learning about a rich cultural history. It is a landmark summer tradition that perfectly captures the hospitality and creative energy of the Twin Cities.
Date & Duration
- Event Date: Friday, August 7, Saturday, August 8, and Sunday, August 9, 2026
- Event Duration: 3 days (Friday: 3:00 PM to 11:00 PM; Saturday: 10:00 AM to 11:00 PM; Sunday: 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM)
Visiting this event? Don’t miss out on these amazing activities and local experiences while you’re here.
Ticket Information
- How Tickets Are Sold: Tickets are available for purchase through the official festival website and can also be bought at the gate during the event weekend.
- Admission Type: Paid Admission for the general public; single day passes and full weekend passes are available.
- Ticket Pricing: Single day adult tickets start at $30; weekend passes are $75; senior and youth (13-17) tickets are $25 for a single day. Children under 12 are typically free.
- Special Seating Options: Seating is primarily first come, first served on the lawn at all music stages; guests are encouraged to bring their own folding chairs or blankets.
- VIP Options: The festival offers Gold VIP passes for $125 and Platinum VIP experiences for $275 per day, providing shaded lounges, private restrooms, and dedicated beverage lines.
Venue / Location
- City and Country: St. Paul, USA
- Venue Name: Harriet Island Regional Park
- Google Maps Address: 49 Harriet Island Rd, St Paul, MN 55107, United States
Contact Information
- Email: info@tcirishfest.com
- Phone Number: +1 651-461-4990
- Official Website: https://www.twincitiesirishfest.com/
- Social Media Links:
- https://www.facebook.com/TCirishFest
- https://youtube.com/@IrishFairMinnesota
- https://www.instagram.com/tcirishfest
- https://www.linkedin.com/company/irish-fair-of-minnesota/posts/?feedView=all
Getting There
- Nearest Airport: Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport (MSP) is approximately 8 miles from Harriet Island Regional Park.
- Nearest Train/Metro Station: The METRO Green Line Central Station in downtown St. Paul is the nearest light rail stop, followed by a 15-minute walk.
- Bus Routes or Public Transport Options: Metro Transit routes 62, 68, and 71 serve the areas near Harriet Island with stops along Wabasha and Robert Streets.
- Parking Availability: Limited parking is available in lots adjacent to the park; most attendees park in downtown St. Paul ramps and walk across the Wabasha Bridge.
- Directions by Car: Access the park via I-94 or I-35E, following signs for downtown St. Paul and the Harriet Island / Plato Boulevard exits.
What is this event?
The Twin Cities Irish Fest is a three day outdoor celebration that honors Irish culture through music, dance, and traditional food. It is a massive community event that brings together thousands of people to share in the heritage of the Irish diaspora in the Midwest.
The festival features multiple stages of entertainment, a large marketplace, and various cultural demonstrations. It is organized by a nonprofit group dedicated to preserving and promoting Irish traditions in a fun and accessible way for the general public.
Why is it popular?
The festival is popular because it provides a highly authentic and high energy experience of Irish culture that appeals to all ages. Its reputation for hosting major international Celtic bands makes it a premier destination for music fans across the region.
It is also a favorite for its scenic location on the Mississippi River and its inclusive atmosphere. The combination of family friendly activities and a vibrant social scene ensures that it remains one of the most anticipated cultural festivals in the Twin Cities every summer.
Tips before you go
- Download the festival app to stay updated on the performance schedule and to receive notifications about any surprise acoustic sets or guest appearances.
- Bring a sturdy folding chair or a waterproof blanket, as much of the viewing area is on the grass and can be damp in the morning or crowded in the evening.
- Arrive early on Saturday or Sunday to secure a good spot near the main stage for the headlining acts, which draw the largest crowds of the weekend.
- Wear comfortable shoes that can handle a bit of mud, as the park setting can become soft if there has been recent rain.
- Check the “Things to Do” section of the website to sign up for specific cultural workshops or genealogy sessions, as these often have limited capacity.
Attendee Experiences
- The energy when Gaelic Storm took the stage was incredible and the whole crowd was jumping and singing along in the rain.
- I found so much information about my ancestors in the genealogy tent and the volunteers were so patient and helpful.
- The food was fantastic and eating a fresh scone while watching the step dancers was the perfect way to spend my Saturday afternoon.
Location
FAQ
Where is the best place to park for the festival?
Parking directly on Harriet Island is extremely limited and usually fills up very early in the day with staff and vendors. The most reliable option is to park in one of the many public parking ramps in downtown St. Paul and walk across the Wabasha Street Bridge, which offers a beautiful view of the festival grounds. There is often a free shuttle provided by the festival that runs between designated downtown points and the main entrance during peak hours.
Is the festival appropriate for children?
The Twin Cities Irish Fest is widely considered one of the most family friendly events in the region and features a dedicated "Children's Area" with games and crafts. Most performances are suitable for all ages and there are numerous interactive exhibits designed to teach kids about Irish culture in an engaging way. Strollers are permitted throughout the grounds, although the grassy terrain can be a bit bumpy in certain sections of the park.
What happens if it rains during the event?
The festival is a rain or shine event and the music generally continues unless there is dangerous weather such as lightning or high winds. Some stages and cultural areas are under large tents which provide cover for the performers and a portion of the audience. It is always a good idea to bring a poncho or light rain jacket so you can continue to enjoy the festivities regardless of the forecast.
Can I bring my own food and beverages into Harriet Island?
Outside food and beverages, including coolers, are generally not permitted inside the festival gates as the event relies on food and drink sales to remain sustainable. There are numerous vendors on site providing a wide range of traditional Irish dishes and contemporary festival food, along with plenty of water and soda options. Exceptions are typically made for baby formula or specific medical dietary needs upon inspection at the gate.
Are dogs allowed at the Irish Fest?
While the park is a public space, during the festival weekend, pets are generally discouraged due to the large crowds and loud music which can be stressful for animals. Service animals that are specifically trained to perform tasks for individuals with disabilities are always permitted. If you do bring a pet to the surrounding park areas outside the gates, they must be on a leash at all times according to St. Paul city ordinances.
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