Saturday, August 22: Free concert at the Riverfront Amphitheater kicks off Kentuckiana Celtic Fest.

Certain aspects of the Kentuckiana Celtic Fest have yet to be determined, so much so that I feel like I'm the only one publicizing it at present, but it looks like the event itself is a go for Saturday, August 22, at the recently reconstructed riverfront Amphitheater in New Albany.

Permits willing and the Ohio don't rise, NABC will have the exclusive beer concession for this event. City hall and the organizers both have advocated for the virtues of local beer, and we thank them all. I'm trying to determine the exact legal nature of the riverfront alcohol concession, both for this and future occasions.

Two weeks ago NABC's Jared Williamson brewed an Irish-style Red at the Grant Line garage brewhouse. There may yet be time to squeeze in a batch of Stout, but if not, Old 15-B Porter should do the trick of covering something black for the Irish. NABC's Kaiser (pre-Prohibition Pilsner, and golden colored for those scared of the dark) also will be served, probably with Tunnel Vision, our rye wheat ale.

It is my understanding that the organizers are asking Louisville-area Irish pubs to purvey food for the day. I remain a tad annoyed that it's almost mid-July, and there isn't a web site for the event. Summer weekends are packed with activities, and people book well in advance. But hey -- I'm just the beer guy.

Here's the official press release:

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The Kentuckiana Celtic Fest’s inaugural event is a free concert to be held at the newly renovated New Albany Amphitheater on August 22nd from 3 to 11pm.

The “Celts on the River Concert” will feature five local and regional Celtic bands plus headliner Brendan Loughery from Donegal, Ireland.

“Bold and passionate, Brendan is currently based out of Chicago and is a truly professional entertainer who appeals to every crowd young and old alike. He has played at major festivals throughout the country and has opened for many celebrities including Chuck Berry, Bruce Springsteen, John Mellencamp, Lorrie Morgan and more. Brendan has released 5 more CD's including "No Irish Need Apply" and "Last Set Of The Night" voted No.13 and No.12 Albums of the Year 2006 & 2007 respectively by Paddy Rock Radio listeners”.

The Kentuckiana Celtic Fest is a new organization founded to celebrate ‘All things Celtic’. The free concert is a way to introduce ourselves to public,” says President Peggy Baas. “What could be more Celtic than a concert on the banks of the Ohio?” she said.

The group plans to hold a festival every year and celebrate them on both sides of the river, alternating year-by-year between Indiana and Kentucky. Along with the music, Celtic food and libations will be on-hand as well as Celtic informational booths. There will also be the chance to do a “wee bit” of shopping.

The Kentuckiana Celtic Fest is also partnering this year to collect backpacks for the nonprofit “Blessings in a Backpack”. This is a relationship the KCF board is very pleased to have secured. Check out their website at http://www.blessingsinabackpack.com/

So put on your dancing shoes, round up the family, pack up the blankets and folding chairs, and join the Kentuckiana Celtic Fest for a day of food, fun, and wonderful music. We hope to see you on August 22nd!