Date: July 11-13, 2008
Cost: $12 per day ($8 in advance through July 10); $7 seniors; free for kids under 12 when accompanied by a paid adult
Organizer: Irish-American Heritage Center
What to expect: Live Irish and American music, folk dancing, food and more.
Why to go: The Mashed Potato Eating Contest is perhaps the most unique thing going.
Additional info: Performers include Gaelic Storm, The Makem and Spain Brothers, the Mickey Finns, The Tossers and Seven Nations. The Folk Tent will host various demonstrations of Irish instruments, dances and sing-alongs. Irish and American food is available throughout the weekend, and dozens of vendors and artisans will be selling Irish clothing, music and jewelry. In additon to the Mashed Potato Eating Contest, activities and contests include a Hooley Happy Hour with live music, matchmaking and dancing and the Irish-American Idol Contest for children ages 12-18.
To purchase advance sale tickets, which are available April 1, call (773) 282-7035, ext. 10.
Centerstage Reviewer: Ben Rubenstein
