We’re approximately a month away from one of the premier Irish festivals in the Midwest: Harriet Island’s annual Minnesota Irish Festival. People from all over the region from all walks of life gather every August to support and celebrate Minnesota’s Irish community and heritage through music, dance, crafts, and authentic fare. Harriet Island is located across the wide Mississippi River from Downtown St. Paul, where you’ll easily spot the State Capital, Cathedral, Science Museum, and Xcel Energy Center. This beautiful, expansive park features sprawling views of the well-lit city, West St. Paul’s bluffs, and time-defying riverboats. And luckily for you, Minnestay has a wide variety of luxurious vacation rentals within minutes of the annual Irish Fair of Minnesota.
LIVE ENTERTAINMENT
St. Paul plays host to one of the largest Irish festivals in the Midwest every August where the live entertainment is arguably the main draw. The entertainment ranges from rousing Celtic cover bands to jaw-dropping Irish dance troupes. Some of the top-billed bands this summer include The High Kings, We Banjo 3, Screaming Orphans, and Aoife Scott. While many of the musical acts reign from the Twin Cities, dozens of artists will be gracing the seven stages and tents all the way from Ireland. The three-day Irish Festival is equally atmospheric, kitschy, and downright entertaining.
AUTHENTIC IRISH FARE
While this year’s food and beverage vendors have yet to be nailed down, you can expect a wide variety of delicious, authentic Irish fare as well as classic American grub. Some of our favorite eats include the Irish whiskey apple pie from Sarah’s Tipsy Pies, the shepherd’s pie from Claddagh Irish Pub, the Irish juicy lucy from Bennett’s Chop & Rail House, and Cara Irish Pubs’ fresh, battered fish and chips. Here’s a “taste” of what last year’s menu looked like.
LOCAL VENDORS
What sets this Irish Festival apart from all others is the wide variety of activities, tents, and vendors. Whether you’re hoping to purchase a souvenir, hop aboard the Padleford Riverboat, or enroll in a free Irish step-dancing class, you’ll quickly discover the unique allure of this crowd-pleasing event. The Natives Dogs of Ireland parade on Saturday is a must-see as these furry, friendly terriers put on quite the show. To learn more about one of the top-reviewed Irish fairs in the country, please visit their website.
QUINTESSENTIAL MINNESOTA DESTINATIONS
Minnestay has luxury vacation rentals scattered throughout the Twin Cities in the cities of Minneapolis, Edina, Minnetonka, and beyond, including Longfellow Chic and IG Expansive Elegance Estate. These two beautiful, private properties are within minutes of Downtown St. Paul and Harriet Island. We specialize in offering travelers with elegant, unique, and conveniently located vacation homes and suites. Browse through our entire collection today to find one that perfectly suits your group’s size, style, and budget. Or give us a call at 612-216-5511 to speak with a friendly member of our staff.
