The Michigan Irish Music Festival is set to take place in West Michigan this week, promising an exciting showcase of Irish and American folk music. The festival, anticipated to attract over 30,000 attendees from across the Midwest, will run from September 12 to 15 at the waterfront Heritage Landing in downtown Muskegon.
This year marks the festival’s 25th anniversary, a significant milestone for the state’s notable Irish American community. The event is entirely volunteer-run and is considered a vital contributor to the local economy and Muskegon’s arts and cultural scene, according to Laura Holmes, Marketing Director for the festival.
Holmes remarked, “Our 25th anniversary isn’t just a celebration of Irish culture; it’s a major economic driver for Muskegon. We’re proud to be part of the arts and cultural landscape that has such a significant impact on our community.”
To commemorate this special occasion, the festival will feature an additional performance stage, increasing from five stages last year to six. More than 30 acts will be showcased, alongside special anniversary merchandise and memorabilia.
The festival’s lineup includes renowned international groups such as Gaelic Storm, Kíla, and Talisk, in addition to local performers. Attendees can expect not only music but also various cultural experiences, craft beer tastings, and Irish food demonstrations. Since 2008, the festival has contributed approximately $400,000 and over 20,000 pounds of food to local charities.
Holmes highlighted the festival’s growth, stating, “We’ve expanded from one stage and five performers 25 years ago to six major stages and over 30 artists today. This growth reflects the increasing interest in Irish culture across Michigan and beyond.”
Tickets for the event can be purchased at michiganirish.org, with prices starting at $10 for a single day and $65 for a four-day pass. Children aged 12 and under can enter for free, though they do require a ticket.
According to the latest data from Visit Muskegon, arts and festivals significantly impacted the local economy and quality of life in Muskegon County in 2022. The estimated total economic impact was $67.6 million, representing 18.4% of the total tourism economic impact of $366.6 million for the county. This includes $43.2 million generated from lodging, food, beverages, souvenirs, vendor revenues, and ticket sales, along with an additional $24.4 million from employee salaries and other revenues.
Kirk Hallman, Executive Director of the Muskegon Museum of Art, noted, “These numbers demonstrate that Art and Culture continues to have a major impact on economic development in Muskegon. The arts sector itself continues to directly invest in its infrastructure, which will further boost these impressive figures.”
Michigan has a significant Irish American population, with approximately 11% of residents reporting Irish ancestry. This demographic has been pivotal in the festival’s growth and in maintaining Irish culture within the state.
Chris Zahrt, former President and Founding Board Member of the Michigan Irish Music Festival, stated, “Our festival serves as a focal point for Michigan’s Irish community, which numbers over 1 million people. It’s not just entertainment; it’s a celebration of our shared heritage and its contribution to Michigan’s cultural landscape.”