Throughout the weekend you'll see history come alive in various ways, all thanks to those who honor centuries of Celtic culture. Better yet, you can join in! Hear stories, join a sing-along, learn about swordfighting, and more.
The 13th Realm are re-enactors who recreate European 13th century. Their family friendly demonstrations and activities allow guests to have first-hand experiences with this wonderful part of our past.
"Step right up and test your strength!" A high striker, also known as a strength tester or strongman game, is a century-old attraction used in funfairs, amusement parks, and carnivals. Players swing a hammer to strike a lever, which sends a puck up a tower - the more strength, the higher the puck goes!
Come and learn about the life of Mary Stuart, one of the most legendary Queens of Scotland. The presentation runs all weekend-long.
Enjoy an encampment with representatives of Fort Niagara. All year-long the fort delights visitors, bringing history to life through soldiers, camp life, music, craftsmanship and more. Old Fort Niagara is located where the Niagara River meets Lake Ontario, in a strategic location called “the key to the continent.”
Gain wonderful knowledge and hands-on experience with ancient weapons and battle skills. SHFT members perform demos all weekend long, giving presentations and letting guests join in as well.
Spangler Forge is a true blacksmith shop: no power hammers, hydraulic presses, or propane forges. They combine traditional hand-forging techniques with modern metallurgy to create unique and lasting pieces. Human spirit meets hot iron, just like it has for thousands of years.
Come and see the age old tradition of fabric production through weaving. Stoney Meadows is bringing a wonderful display to show you start to finish what it takes to produce fine fleece cloth. You can also shop from their large assortment of beautiful, completed works of hand-woven shawls, hats, gloves and scarfs.
The tree's origins come from old traditions in Celtic nations; variations include Fairy Trees, May Trees, Votive Trees, and more. Visitors add their wishes as offerings to local saints, deities or wee folk, in hopes they can receive help or guidance towards their wish or prayer. At the end of the weekend all wishes are ceremoniously sent to the heavens with help from the Fire Sculpters, where we hope many receive help in coming true!
The History and pride of the Scottish people thrives in the descendants of the original families of Scotland and Ireland, known as Clans. They honor their ancestors by celebrating the traditions and heritage that have held their families together for generations. A visit is highly recommended, as the living history of Clan Village cannot be missed.
Celebrating history and heritage of the Celts is a priority for the Niagara Celtic Heritage Festival. The Celtic College hosts a series of cultural classes and lectures designed to educate and enlighten you. Here's your chance to learn first-hand about bagpipes, Celtic poetry, genealogy and more- new topics every year. Make sure your visit includes one or more of these FREE classes!
Times |
Class |
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11:00am-12noon |
Legends of Celtic Goddesseswith Eileen Canning-DiPasqualeAncient folklore includes many tales of Celtic goddesses...what where they trying to teach us thousands of years ago? |
1:00-2:00pm |
The Eisteddfod: Welsh Music, Poetry and Dancewith Sally SchaeferLearn and experience the Welsh Eisteddfod, an annual cultural festival and competition in traditional music, poetry, dance, and more. |
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4:00-5:30pm |
Illuminated Lettering 101with Vic ThibaultCreate your own illuminated letter in the style of Illuminated Manuscripts, such as The Book of Kells, which is currently housed at Trinity College in Dublin, Ireland. |
Times |
Class |
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1:00-2:00pm |
Weaponsmithing and Prestige in Viking Age Settlementswith Matt HollandLearn about the basics of Scandanavian Iron Age weapons, form and function, archaeometallurgy, and prestige in design and burial practices. |
2:00-3:00pm |
Ancestral Scottish Herbalismwith Kristin Grohman, EthnobotonistHead back in time to the view our Scottish ancestors' world of traditional herbal medicine, plant folklore, and health practices. |
Niagara Celtic hosts a wonderful array of demonstrations and hands-on experience with a variety of animals, including breeds direct from the British Isles.
Announcements coming this summer.
Enjoy the amazing skills and tricks of some wonderful Shelties (a Scottish breed) and their friends. Catch their show twice daily.
Kids of all ages can find endless fun throughout the grounds from the music to the food, demonstrations to attractions. We've made it easier for your to plan your outing by highlighting amazing family-friendly activities you won't want to miss!
Storytelling was vital during the time of ancient Celts, as a way to share history, lessons and fantasy. Come to the Storyteller's Tree and sit for a while as you enjoy tales covering everything from Celtic to local heritage. Whether it's a fanciful teller of tales or a talking tree, make sure to spend a little time relaxing with our storytellers. Showtimes and story lengths vary; visit often during festival weekend!
Wonder and adventure are found everywhere in Niagara Celtic's Wee Folk Shire. Journey through mini-lands designed to encourage education, imagination, active play and togetherness.
Updates arrive this summer.
The tree's origins come from old traditions in Celtic nations; variations include Fairy Trees, May Trees, Votive Trees, and more. Visitors add their wishes as offerings to local saints, deities or wee folk, in hopes they can receive help or guidance towards their wish or prayer. At the end of the weekend all wishes are ceremoniously sent to the heavens with help from the Fire Sculpters, where we hope many receive help in coming true!