Portarlington’s National Celtic and Folk Festival continues despite arctic blast

A spectacular Irish four-piece band has set the pace at Portarlington’s Celtic shindig not deterred by the arctic blast rattling the marquees.

Boxing Banjo performing on the first night of the National Celtic and Folk Festival in Portarlington. Picture: Alan Barber

Rousing Irish four-piece Boxing Banjo set the pace on night one of Portarlington’s Celtic shindig – as an arctic blast rattled the marquees.

The appropriate highland weather failed to deter big crowds from coming out as the annual craic and culture of National Celtic and Folk Festival kicked off last night with a fine showcase of this year’s offerings.

Festival director Una McAlinden said the festival was embracing the beautiful Celtic vibe, between moments of blue sky.

“It’s good Celtic weather, and all the stages are nice and cozy,” she said

“We’ve got fire pits and heaters, and cosy stages.

“We expect winter weather at this time of year so people just rug up and embrace it.”

A cosy first night of the National Celtic and Folk Festival in Portarlington. Picture: Alan Barber

Ms McAlinden said opening night set the tone as everyone began to realise what a wonderful weekend they were in for.

From the soulful sounds of Tulna, the whispy and skilful players of Grainne Hunt and the looped trad of Caoimhin and jiggery of the Boxing Banjo the scene was set for never-mind-the-weather merriment.

“The energy was really high and everyone really settled in,” she said.

The festival continues over Saturday, Sunday and Monday.

Originally published as Portarlington’s National Celtic and Folk Festival continues despite arctic blast