🍀 [2025] Your Guide to Irishfest in La Crosse: Music, Mirth, and More

There’s a certain kind of joy that fills the air when Irishfest rolls into town—and no, it’s not just the sound of fiddles and foot-stomping reels (though there's plenty of that). It’s the smell of simmering Irish stew, the buzz of families reuniting over genealogy tents, and the sight of kids giggling in the wee folk area. Whether you’re Irish by blood or just Irish for the weekend, Irishfest in La Crosse is one of those feel-good community weekends you don’t want to miss. From world-class music to rich cultural traditions, this handy guide will walk you through all the best things to see, eat, sip, and explore.

No matter what day you drop by Irishfest, you’re bound to catch a show worth sticking around for. With two stages packed full of performers—ranging from internationally acclaimed acts to local favorites—there’s no shortage of toe-tapping, hand-clapping entertainment to soak in.

The Main Stage lineup is stacked with high-energy performances all weekend long, including Irish rock legends like Gaelic Storm and Skerryvore, fan-favorite Eileen Ivers, and a Sunday closing set from The Scattering. Whether you’re into traditional Irish tunes or modern Celtic fusion, this schedule has something to get your feet moving.

Meanwhile, the Harp Stage offers a more mellow and magical experience. With daily sets from the ethereal Harp Twins, along with performances from artists like Andrea Stern and Hannah Flowers, this stage is a peaceful pocket where music floats as gently as a pint being passed your way.

From the moment the gates open to the last encore echoing across the Mississippi, Irishfest’s music lineup offers the perfect soundtrack to a weekend of culture, community, and celebration.

Come hungry, because Irishfest delivers a menu as rich and hearty as the culture it celebrates. Whether you’re craving traditional Irish comfort food or something with a modern twist, the festival’s culinary lineup offers something for every appetite.

At the main tent, you’ll find crowd-pleasers like Reuben sandwiches, shepherd’s pie, bangers and mash, and the ever-satisfying Irish nachos—available from vendors like Bennett O’Riley’s, The Monarch Public House, and The Rookery. If you’re more of a street fare connoisseur, don’t miss Frank O’Dowd’s Irish Food Truck, where you can get your hands on Guinness-battered fish tacos, Scotch eggs, Reuben eggrolls, and other cleverly crafted bites. The Monkey Business Food Truck adds even more variety, and the Bantry Backyard & Tea Garden serves up nostalgic treats like leprechaun donuts, shamrock cookies, and hot sandwich plates. And for those who want a taste of the sea, stop by the Bantry Mussels stand for a free sample and good cause—proceeds support cultural exchanges and charitable efforts.

To wash it all down? A well-stocked beverage lineup features Guinness, Harp, Smithwick’s, Strongbow, Spotted Cow, and Twisted Tea, alongside more local and international favorites. Prefer something non-alcoholic? You’ll find fresh squeezed lemonade, iced coffee, boba tea, and Leprechaun Punch served cold and refreshing on the midway.

Whether you're sampling a new dish or raising a pint with friends, Irishfest offers a chance to savor the spirit of Ireland one bite (or sip) at a time.

Irishfest isn’t just about lively music and tasty eats—it’s also a heartfelt celebration of Irish culture, heritage, and storytelling. Across the festival grounds, the Cultural and Arts Tents are where things slow down just enough for reflection, connection, and learning. Whether it’s a mass to start your Sunday, a crash course in the Irish language, or a rousing sea shanty singalong, this festival carves out intentional space to honor the roots of Irish identity.

Festivalgoers can tap into history with lectures like “Irish in the Atlantic World,” watch traditional Irish storytelling from Mairtín de Cógáin, or soak in live fiddle tunes and sea shanties. Kids and adults alike will be charmed by events like the Potato Eating Contest (yes, that’s a real thing) and performances from Hillary Klug, who brings the unique art of buck dancing to life. These cultural experiences aren’t just filler—they’re the heart of what makes Irishfest feel less like a party and more like a reunion.

If you're bringing the kids along, you’re in luck—Irishfest has an entire area dedicated to the tiniest festivalgoers. The Wee Folk Area is packed with kid-centered fun all weekend long, blending hands-on activities with Irish culture in a way that’s both engaging and unforgettable. Think pirate sword making, Irish dance lessons, storytelling, and even live sheep shearing (yes, really). Where else can your child make a sword at 4:30 and watch a sheep get a haircut at 5:30?

With shows, games, and special performances designed just for families, there’s something to keep every age group entertained—whether it's a donut-eating contest, a puppet show, or just a little room to run and explore. Irishfest has gone out of its way to make sure families feel welcome, and that effort shines through in every detail. It’s one of those rare festivals where strollers and pint glasses coexist peacefully—and that’s something worth celebrating.

Irishfest La Crosse runs August 8–10, and whether you’re coming for the music, the culture, the food—or all of the above—you’ll want to give yourself the whole day to soak it all in. Gates open at 4 p.m. on Friday and 10 a.m. on Saturday and Sunday, so come early, wear something green, and bring a friend along for the craic (that’s Irish for “a good time”).

Tickets are $15 online and $20 at the gate, so grab yours in advance to save a few bucks. You can also pick up tickets at La Crosse Hy-Vee. And here’s the best news: kids 17 and under get in FREE. Get your tickets here » and make some memories worth raising a pint to. 🍀