Friendsville, our host town
After many years at the Garrett County Fairgrounds in McHenry, the festival packed up its tents and went down the hill to the charming town of Friendsville. Our new location is in the town's beautiful municipal park along the bonnie, bonnie banks of the Youghiogheny River. (Pronounced "yok".)
Just off of Interstate 68 at Exit 4, the festival is conveniently located a short drive from Morgantown WV, Cumberland MD, or Uniontown PA, and still convenient points farther afield. Scenic Deep Creek Lake is only fifteen minutes away via MD-42, Friendsville Road.
Please note for GPS purposes, there is not an official address for the park. It is located on Old River Road in Friendsville, MD. Come to Friendsville and look for the signs! We know you'll find us, it's a small town. Link to Google Directions from your location
LODGING
Yurt at Yorkie Acres Farm - unavailable for the festival, but check this out for a future visit, when you can commune with Highland Cows on a mountain stream!
Taylor Made Vacation Rentals - individual vacation rental homes near Deep Creek Lake, office only 15 minutes from Friendsville
WISP Resort - full service hotel in McHenry at the base of WISP ski area, 15 miles away
The Hobbit House on Airbnb - darling cottage walkable to the park
MicroTel, Hazelton, WV, 8 miles from the park, easy access via I 68 W
FOOD & DRINK
The festival has great vendors, but if you need something before or after, here are some nearby picks
Friendsville Public House - great folks, great food, the newest hometown favorite Our unofficial after-party will be here!
The Root Café – charming spot where everything’s made with heart
Friendsville Discount Liquors & Drafters Beer Garden
Good to Go - gas station and convenience store adjacent to interstate exit chock full of novelty items you never knew you needed
RECREATION
Enjoy the small sandy beach fishing access in the Friendsville Community Park and walk the path around the perimeter of the park that follows Bear Creek and the Youghiogheny River, or enjoy one of these other activities nearby
Kendall Trail - two-mile long railroad grade trail hugging the river
All Earth Eco Tours - guided hikes and flatwater kayaking
Precision Rafting - raft the Class V wild & scenic Youghiogheny with some of the best guides around!
HISTORY
Friend Family Association - wealth of local genealogy and lore
Festival FAQ
Where is The Garrett County Celtic Festival?
It is held at the Friendsville Community Park on Old River Road in Friendsville, Maryland just off of Exit 4 of Interstate 68. Friendsville is 15 minutes from the Deep Creek Lake resort area, and within 45 minutes of Morgantown WV, Cumberland MD, and Uniontown PA. Pittsburgh is less than two hours away, Baltimore and Washington are within three hours' drive. Google Directions
How do I purchase tickets?
We are offering advance sales online through our website or in-person at select Garrett County libraries3. Tickets are required for all persons entering festival grounds, regardless of age, though kids 12 and under are free. Purchase tickets
What does my ticket get me?
Access to the festival grounds with all-day music and dance, cultural presentations, food & artisan vendors, interactive arts workshops, children’s activities and support of a 100% volunteer-run event.
What payment methods do the vendors accept?
Each vendor is responsible for setting the forms of payment they accept. Please note there is not an ATM on site. There is a First United bank with drive-thru ATM at First Avenue & Maple Street.
Is there cell service?
Yes, coverage is generally good in the Park for most carriers.
Where do I park?
There is plentiful free parking in the park.
Can I get to the Festival with public transit?
Sorry, no. There is no public transportation in the area.
Is the Festival ADA accessible?
Yes! Priority parking has been reserved, and all performance areas are wheelchair accessible. Though most of the park is grassy, paved paths go between the different festival areas. ADA bathrooms are available as well.
Is the Festival pet-friendly?
Leashed, well-behaved pets are quite welcome at all outdoor areas, but please be advised there are livestock and working dogs at the Festival. A spigot for tap water is on the side of the bathroom in the middle of the Festival grounds. Your pet may enjoy swimming in the river, too.
Do I have to wear a kilt?
No, but please do if you have one! You can purchase one on-site, or try your hand at making a Great Kilt.
Is there anything to do for children?
Yes! This is a family-friendly event. Our Rainbow’s End children’s area has tons for the wee bairns! Please note this is not a babysitting area, and children should not be left unattended.
Is there anything to eat?
Food stands will be set up with both traditional and contemporary fare. Stay for coffee, lunch, dinner, and dessert.
I'm "with the band". Do I get a free ticket?
Family and support crew coming with our performers are able to purchase advanced tickets at a discount. Please have your team lead contact us to make arrangements.
What happens if it rains?
The event will occur in rain or shine! There are pavilions near the stage with risers and some picnic tables inside. Or there are a few areas under cover where you can put your own chairs.
Where is the river?
The Friendsville Community Park is on a beautiful open field where Bear Creek meets the Youghiogheny River. A fishing access is located on the far side of the parking circle near the baseball diamond. The river is shallow here and it's a great spot to play in the river if it is hot!