WATER VALLEY - The 23rd annual Water Valley Celtic Festival was a resounding success with musicians, artists, vendors and volunteers alike, says second-year festival director Richard Otte.
Held on Saturday, June 17 under excellent weather conditions, there were more than 100 musicians and more than 120 performances at this year’s extravaganza.
“We are very happy with how it went,” said Otte. “We had nothing but smiling faces. It is always such a pleasant time. Everybody is so happy to be involved, from the volunteers to the vendors to the musicians and artists.”
Although exact attendance numbers won’t be known for some time, he said at least 800 attended.
“We had above average attendance this year,” he said. “All our vendors were raving about how busy they were.”
More than 100 volunteers made the day possible in 2023.
The festival ran from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. in seven covered venues, including in the Water Valley Community Hall.
Despite some rain the district, the festival itself was warm and dry, he said.
“It was nice and cool so it wasn’t too hot in the tents,” he said.
Many of the performers at this year’s festival had played at the festival in past years, with musicians coming from across the district and beyond.
There were numerous artisan tents set up throughout Water Valley, with craftspersons and artists selling their wares.
Asked if there will be 24th annual Water Valley Celtic Festival in 2024, he said, “Absolutely”.
The Water Valley Celtic Festival is patterned on a similar annual festival held at Feakle, Co. Clare, Ireland, which was the inspiration for founder Dave Settles.
