Glen Innes is preparing to welcome thousands of visitors from across the country as it hosts the Australian Celtic Festival from 1–4 May 2025. Now in its 33rd year, the festival remains Glen Innes Severn Council’s largest annual event and is recognised nationally as a key celebration of Celtic heritage and community spirit.
Held at the Australian Standing Stones National Monument in Centennial Parklands, the 2025 event will pay tribute to the Celtic nations of Brittany, Cornwall and Wales. The program includes live music, traditional ceremonies, artisan markets and community festivities spread across the township.
Mayor Margot Davis said the event is a major drawcard for the region and a point of pride for locals.
“The Australian Celtic Festival is Council’s flagship event. It reflects our commitment to celebrating culture and bringing people together in a meaningful way. It’s a time when Glen Innes Severn proudly shares its Celtic heritage with visitors from across the country and beyond,” Cr Davis said.
This year’s festival will feature a strong culinary focus. Sydney’s Four Frogs Crêperie will offer authentic Breton crêpes and cider, while local producers and Queensland-based distillers will be on hand with tastings and products for sale.
The popular ACF Celtic Food Trail also returns, beginning on 28 April. Cafés and restaurants across Glen Innes will participate with themed menus and window displays throughout the week leading up to the festival.
Two new additions join the 2025 program. The inaugural ACF Eisteddfod will take place at Glen Innes Town Hall on Friday 2 May, showcasing traditional Welsh poetry, music and performance. The new Celtic Cauldron space will host interactive workshops, intimate music sessions and presentations throughout the weekend.
Festival favourites will also return, including the official ceremonies and parades, pipe bands, historical reenactments, the Highland Games and the Celtic Strongman competition.
Musical performances will feature Dalla Duo (Cornwall), Siobhan Owen (Wales), Murphy’s Pigs, Limerick and The Gathering. Dance acts include Damhsa Comhla, Sydney Irish Ceili Dancers, Shamrock Dancers, Jacaranda Dancers, Elevate Irish Dance Academy and Scotia Highland Dancers.
The full festival program will be available from Thursday, 24 April at Glen Innes News distribution points, the Visitor Information Centre, Highlands Hub and the Festival Box Office.
Shuttle buses will run regularly between the Glen Innes Visitor Information Centre and the Glen Innes Showgrounds across the weekend. A drop-off zone and limited accessible parking will be available for vehicles with valid permits.
For more information, visit: www.australiancelticfestival.com
