Slainte Irish Festival Comes to Patchogue, New York

A Sunday afternoon at the Festival

On Sunday, July 16th., I had the pleasure of attending the Slainte Irish Festival. The festival was held for three days, on the grounds of Shorefront Park. Shorefront Park is situated in Patchogue, Long Island, New York. It is home to many concerts; under the band shell and many artistic events.

Sunday was the last day of the festival. Although, a very hot day, the turn out was amazing. I had the pleasure of meeting some of the members of the band - The Prodigals and The Young Dubliners. I also had my picture taken with Snoopy, who was representing Met-Life Insurance Company. They were part of the marketplace of vendors. Having knowledge in Irish language and culture, I was astonished with the exquisiteness and authenticity of the craftsmanship. There was plenty of traditional music, (Ceol traidisiúnta). The line up for Sunday was, SCYTHIAN,CEILI RAIN, ANDY COONEY, YOUNG DUBLINERS, PRODIGALS, and THE GLENGARRY BHOYS. These talent musicians took the center stage in the band shell, while other talented musicians, such as the Potcheen Folk Band, entertained the festival attendees under the green tent.

Another attraction, at the festival were, the storytellers/Poets. In traditional Gaelic, they are referred to as Bards, or File’. There was also plenty of Irish Step Dancing, traditional Irish food, as well as American classics. A spectacular event, was the appearance of the world famous Clydesdale Horses.

For those who were able to arrive for the festivities early, Catholic mass, was lead by Father Brian Barr. This marks the fourth year of the festival. One dollar was donated to the St. Baldrick’s Foundation for Children. A festive time was had.

Reporter/Photojournalist

Patricia Ann Rosemarie Ippolito (O’Hare)