Enjoy a pint at one of the area's Irish festivals. Photo: PDPhoto.org, Public Domain Image

The Philadelphia area was a center of immigration and work for many Irish, especially during the 1800s. As a result, many Philadelphians and residents of the larger area can trace their roots back to Ireland. Irish and Irish American cultural festivities are always popular in Philly—and this June, there are multiple events.

Montgomery County AOH Festival

St. Michael’s Picnic Grounds, Pavilion, Mont Clare, PA

Friday, June 4 – Sunday, June 6, 2010

Friday: 6:00 p.m.; Saturday: 12:00 p.m.; Sunday 9:30 a.m.

Friday: $5.00; Saturday and Sunday: $7.00 per day – weekend pass: $15.00

On the Web

This festival features ceili music, ethnic food, pipers, dancers and $2.00 pints all weekend long. The affordable festival goes on rain or shine.

Irish American Festival at Penn’s Landing

Great Plaza at Penn’s Landing, Columbus Blvd at Chestnut Street, Philadelphia, PA

Sunday, June 6, 2010

12:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.

Cost: Free

On the Web

The Irish American Festival features dancing, music and other entertainment. Now in its twelfth year, the festival features notable musical guests including the band Blackthorn. This kid-friendly festival also includes face painting.

Sixth Annual Celtic Festival

Historic Cold Spring Village, 720 Route 9 South, Cape May, NJ

Saturday, June 5 – Sunday, June 6, 2010

10:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

By phone: 609- 898-2300, ext 17

Cold Spring Village’s Celtic festival is a smaller event offering a more engaging, personal experience for those interested in Irish culture. This family-friendly festival serves both food and beer in designated areas.

Celtic Fling & Highland Games

Mount Hope Estate Winery and the Pennsylvania Renaissance Faire

Friday, June 25 – Sunday, June 27, 2010

Cost: $25.95 at gate; $22.95 online pre-order

On the Web

Interested in your Celtic heritage? This festival celebrates all things Celtic including various aspects of Irish culture and life. This weekend-long celebration of culture takes place on the grounds of the Pennsylvania Renaissance Faire (which opens later in the summer). Still looking for volunteers, this event features storytellers and musicians. Children’s tickets cost $9.95.

New Jersey Irish Festival

First Energy Park, Lakewood, New Jersey

Saturday, June 12, 2010

12:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.

On the Web

Focused on Irish culture and heritage, this festival hosts more famous musical acts such as Blackthorn and Jamesons Revenge. Kid-friendly, the New Jersey Irish Festival features a play land for children.

June is a remarkable month for Irish festivals and events in Philadelphia and the surrounding areas. Learn about everything from local brews to stepdancing at these events.