National Celtic Festival

About The Festival

The National Celtic Festival is Australia's largest and most diverse celebration of Celtic culture. Celts from around Australia converge on Portarlington over the Long Week-end in June.

The Music

From Friday night to Monday afternoon, festival-goers can enjoy Celtic music of the highest quality, from traditional to contemporary styles and everything in between. Enjoy music in large concert venues, wine bars and intimate acoustic venues. So whether you want to sit back with a glass of wine or dance to energetic Celtic Rock, there is something for everyone.

The Dance

If dancing is your passion, you will love what is on offer. Experienced tutors from across the nation will get your feet moving in the various Celtic styles - Irish, Welsh,Cornich, Breton, Scottish... and then bring your skills to the Ceili and dance to the best Ceili band in Australia!

The Workshops

If you want to play an instrument, listen to poetry, read dramatic verse, sing or simply just join in and see where it takes you, check out the range of workshops on offer for adults and kids.

The Sessions

Join great musicians over the weekend at the session bar. You never know whom you might share a tune with!

The Venues

Are cosy! Festival-goers can enjoy warm venues, a great pub with openfires, the wine bar, an heritage restaurant and themed bars where they can sit back and listen to great music all weekend. But don't get too settled because there is plenty happening outdoors as well.

The Markets

The undercover markets offer a range of Celtic goods, craft and foods to enjoy over the weekend.

The Setting

The festival settles into the township of Portarlington over the long weekend, where festival-goers are warmly welcomed. Portarlington is a seaside town offering amazing views across the bay to the You Yangs and the cityscape of Melbourne. All festival venues are in walking distance.

The Community

The people of Portarlington give the festival great support and our visitors a friendly welcome. You are sure to bump into a local whether they are volunteering, running local businesses or putting you up over the weekend.

Location