By Olivia Bradbury / Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
The Southern Shore’s annual Shamrock Folk Festival will take place in Ferryland on July 26th and 27th at the Ferryland Festival Park. This year marks the festival’s 40th anniversary. Few people are as acquainted with the history of what has become a favorite summer tradition for many, as Keith Mooney, the executive director of the Southern Shore Folk Arts Council.
The event, initially called the Southern Shore Festival, was first organized in 1986 by the Southern Shore Development Association. The association sponsored the event for nine years. When the Southern Shore Folk Arts Council was formed in 1995, it took over the event’s production, renaming it the Shamrock Festival. Since its inception, it has been held every year, even virtually during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Shamrock Festival mainly features performers of Newfoundland and Irish music. Both local and established artists take the stage and showcase the traditional music.
“One of the objectives of forming the folk arts council was to promote our culture and heritage,” said Mooney. “The presentation of the festival, the musical accompaniment and songs and recitations, they certainly fulfill that mandate. It’s a great social event. People come home for it.”
The revenue from the Shamrock Festival supports the Southern Shore Folk Arts Council. The festival financially benefits the region in a broader sense too as those drawn by the music patronize local businesses. “People are coming out, they’re visiting restaurants, and staying at B&Bs,” said Mooney. “Grocery stores, gas outlets. It’s a great draw, and it’s a great activity to have on the Southern Shore.”
The first day of the Shamrock Festival, July 26th, is a 19+ event that will take place in the evening. Lee Dunne will be opening for the main act, the Justin Martin Band. Gates will open at 8:30 p.m. The show will start at 9:00 p.m. and last until about 12:30 a.m. Tickets for the July 26th show are $20 if bought in advance or $30 if bought at the gate on the night of the event. Those wanting to buy tickets in advance can purchase them at the Tetley Tea Room, O’Brien’s Value Grocer, and Ferryland Foodland.
Sunday, July 27th is the all ages event, which Mooney says is popular with families. The show will start at 1:15 p.m. and include performances by Lord & Lady Baltimore, Janine White, Dollykits, Black Gold, The Masterless Men, and Down Forward. The show will also have a youth session at 1:30 p.m. In addition to the musical entertainment, there will be games of chance, entertainment for children, the Pinch Food Wagon, and a 19+ Beer Garden. Admission will be $15 for adults, $5 for youths, and free for children under 12.
Mooney expressed thanks on behalf of the folk arts council for their corporate sponsors and to the Town of Ferryland for supporting the Shamrock Festival.
