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Tuesday, September 15, 2009

Michigan Irish Music Festival, September 18 - 20

Michigan Irish Music Festival Celebrates 10th Year The Michigan Irish Music Festival, presented by Mercy Health Partners, returns to Heritage Landing in downtown Muskegon on September 18-20th. The festival features three days of non-stop traditional and contemporary Irish entertainment on three covered stages. The Michigan Irish Music Festival began with the goal of boosting the Muskegon economy while celebrating Irish culture. Over the past 10 years, that goal has been realized. The festival has experienced tremendous growth in size and popularity, and has had a major economic impact on the Muskegon area.

The Festival kicks off with a free Early-In offer on Friday, September 18th, sponsored by Family Financial Credit Union. All festival goers will get in free from 5-6pm. To get the party started, festival organizers are planning special events before the gates open. Family Financial Credit Union staff members will be on hand with free giveaways. Entertainment will be provided by Switchback, outside the main gate beginning at 4pm. A Festival favorite for many years, Switchback, was recently selected as the Duo of the Year by the Irish Music Association. Marty McCormack and Brian FitzGerald are known for their mix of traditional Irish music, but with a high-energy sound. McCormack described the appeal for Irish music stating, “whether you’re a Celt or not- Irish or not – you feel it. It’s a music and culture that appeals to everyone”.

A special presentation to celebrate the 10th annual Festival will take place on Saturday, September 19th at 6 pm. The presentation will include several special guests including, Mayor Steve Warmington, Ed Ward from the Milwaukee Irish Festival, Brian Doherty from Nova Scotia, and Jill Foreman from the Muskegon County Convention and Visitors Bureau.

General admission tickets for the festival are $8 on Friday (5-11 pm), $15 on Saturday (10 am – 11 pm) and $10 on Sunday (9 am – 6 pm). For additional information, tickets, and a complete entertainment schedule, call 231.739.2028

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