US Ongoing

Celtic Classic Highland Games & Festival

The Celtic Classic Highland Games & Festival is a massive three-day celebration of Celtic culture held in Historic Downtown Bethlehem. As one of North America's largest free Celtic festivals, it features the U.S. National Highland Games Championship alongside traditional music, dance, and a grand parade.

Date
Sep 25-27, 2026
Location
Bethlehem
Status
Ongoing
+ Add ICS
US Ongoing
Celtic Classic Highland Games & Festival
Date
Sep 25-27, 2026
Location
Bethlehem
Highland Games Celtic Culture Live music

Event summary

Highlights

  • U.S. National Highland Games Championship
  • Showing of the Tartan Parade
  • Haggis Bowl 2026 eating contest
  • Celtic Heritage Hollow children's area
Organized by the Celtic Cultural Alliance, this 39th annual event brings together professional athletes, musicians, and artisans. The festival is highlighted by the U.S. National Highland Games Championship, where top competitors vie for the national title. Public activities begin on Friday with the Haggis Bowl eating contest, followed by the Showing of the Tartan Parade through the city on Saturday morning.

Musical entertainment across the weekend features a diverse lineup including Seamus Kennedy, the Dave North Trio, and the O’Grady Quinlan Academy of Irish Dance. Visitors can explore the Celtic Heritage Hollow for youth activities or attend historical and genealogical lectures at the Heritage Stage.

The event grounds host dozens of merchants and food vendors offering traditional Celtic fare. Located primarily in the Colonial Industrial Quarter and downtown streets, the festival remains free to the public, focusing on the preservation and promotion of Celtic heritage through competitive games and community education.

Practical details

Before attending

Check the sources below for current opening times, admission prices and registration requirements. A date range does not mean the event runs continuously or that admission is free.

Sources and further information

Check these references for event announcements and updates before attending.

Location map

Approximate area only; exact venue coordinates are not confirmed.

Keep exploring

Use this event as a starting point for nearby places, matching topics, and calendar paths.

Similar events

More events connected by topic, style, or cultural theme.

View all
Bethlehem calendar Open local events and dates. More in Pennsylvania Browse the wider area. United States calendar Browse the national event calendar.