The 2009 edition of the Irish 2000 Music and Arts Festival will take place at the Saratoga County Fairgrounds in Ballston Spa, N.Y., on Sept. 18 and 19. This is the first time in more than a decade that the event, which draws thousands of guests each year, has changed its location.
Irish 2000 President Matt Nelligan said, "After 11 successful years at the Altamont Fairgrounds, we are excited about moving to a new venue that will allow us to further grow our event at a great facility in the heart of Saratoga County."
The decision to move the event was based primarily on the event organizers' appreciation that these are tough times economically. "By moving the event to the Saratoga Fairgrounds, we are able to hold the line on pricing," Mr. Nelligan said.
New this year will be a special early bird rate which will be "the lowest price ever for those purchasing tickets for the two days of the event. We also plan to expand the ages that get in for free from 10 and younger to 12 and younger. We're also introducing a two-day VIP ticket that gives greater access to VIP areas and entertainers. Plus, there will be a reduced parking fee," he said.
Mr. Nelligan also noted that this year's 13th annual festival will have new bands and attractions and "lots of new ways for everyone to enjoy Irish 2000. Moving to the Saratoga County Fairgrounds also provides guests with easy access from the Northway to dining, shopping and nightlife in Saratoga Springs."
Notable bands on the schedule include National performers Black 47 and Flynn 529 as well as local favorites The McKrells and Hair of the Dog. A complete list of performers can be viewed at www.irish2000fest.com.
Irish 2000 is one of the top five Irish festivals in the United States in terms of attendance, averaging about 15,000 people each year. The festival will be underway from 5 p.m. to 11 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 18, and from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 19.
For additional information and updates on ticket prices and performers, visit www.irish2000fest.com or call 1-888-414-3378.
About The Organizers
The not-for-profit Irish Music and Arts Festival, Inc., with headquarters at the Albany Ancient Order of Hibernians' Irish Cultural Center in Albany, organizes the annual festival. The goal of the organization is, "To preserve, protect and promote Irish history and culture in the 21st
century."
Since its inception, the festival has donated close to $350,000 to a variety of charities including the Albany Irish-American Center, the Irish-American Heritage Museum and all of the schools of Irish dance in the Capital Region.
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