“I had never been before and absolutely loved it! My favorite groups are always Father Son and Friends and Albannach (they were fabulous, as always). SCYTHIAN! They were so kind and their music is just the best combo of Celtic, pop and bluegrass. Partook in several drinks at the Ailing Knight Pub…I highly recommend the snake bite! Weather ended up being great too! Nice little trip to get me through my ORF withdrawal till labor day weekend!” – Jaime Wright
It’s shaping up to be one heck of a summer here in Ohio! Between heat domes and heavy thunderstorms, it’s been difficult to get outside and enjoy yourself. Thankfully, Celtic Fest Oho 2025 provided the perfect Saturday to come out and have some fun with friends and strangers alike. With nonstop music, delicious food, and plenty of shows to enjoy, there was no shortage of entertainment for the whole family.
New Musical Guests
Kinnfolk: Bringing harmony through the bodhrán, mandolin, and vocal magic, this husband/wife duo prides themselves on bringing the heritage of Celtic and Appalachian Folk music to your ears. From toe-tappers like The Water’s Rising to deep, romantic ballads like Song for the Valley, Kinnfolk made their first appearance at CFO a memorable one.
Rory Makem: With over thirty-five years of performance under his belt, Rory Makem is at home on stage. His music focuses on tales of the everyman; lovers and soldiers and the history of the people as he breathes life into every note. A strummer of no small skill, Rory plays the guitar, banjo, and mandolin or bouzouki. His performance really resonates with Celtic music lovers and new fans alike.
New Events & Activities
Seek & Find Etchings: Celtic knotwork is a familiar sight at cultural events. The endless loops create fantastic images and portray figures from Celtic history. Often used to symbolize the interconnectedness of life, these knotwork designs were hidden all over the CFO grounds. Many of our little Celts were given an etching notebook to capture the designs for a unique keepsake to take home.
Afternoon Tea: CFO is a nonstop party, which can be overwhelming from time to time. Afternoon Tea provides a moment of respite, allowing for a sense of calm amid all the joyous screaming and Celtic rock. Fresh baked scones, light and tangy lemon curd, fresh clotted cream, and rich fruit preserves (not to mention an array of wonderful teas) will make you feel like a Bridgerton.
Helping the Commuity
Toys for Tots Dayton: We were proud to have our local military out on the festival grounds representing Toys for Tots in Dayton, OH. Toys for Tots collects new, unwrapped toys for the December holiday season, distributing these gifts for free to less fortunate children across Montgomery and Greene County. They are always looking for volunteers! Take a look at their website if you are interested.
Shamrock Shenanigans Fireman’s Rally: A fast-paced relay race between guests of all ages and the Massie Township Fire Department! Visitors joined up on the jousting field to compete with local firemen in friendly competition: rolling fire hoses, bean bag toss (into a burning building), saving a ‘cat’ while scurrying up and down a ladder. All proceeds from the ticket sales for this event are donated to the Massie Township Fire Department so they can continue to keep Massie Township and Harveysburg safe.
Fun for Everyone
CFO brings people from all over to enjoy the celebration and entertainment. Let’s see what our guests have to say!
“Scynthian and Albannach were totally amazing! Jumping in puddles and dancing in the rain were so much fun”
– Abbie Greenlee
“We had an absolute blast! I was super excited about the haggis hut and we were glad to find Good Boy Vodkas! I also loved just the shear amount of bagpipe music I got to listen to.”
– Maria Molino“I got to meet the Irish wolf hounds and I have never been so happy in my life.”
– Hayley Krystyne