The Melbourne Celtic Festival, Port Phillip Rotary’s flagship event, heads into its fourth year with a stacked local and international lineup across three indoor stages and one charming garden stage at the iconic Mission to Seafarers Victoria, in the heart of the city. The event which took out a Rotary District 9800 Community Service Award in 2024 consists of 11 hours of entertainment on St Patrick’s Day, Monday, March 17 from 12pm – 11pm. The Melbourne Celtic Festival aims to unite through the power of Celtic music, dance, food and great Craic!
Heading into its fourth year, the Melbourne Celtic Festival, hosted by Port Phillip Rotary, brings together the best of Celtic culture and music. This year’s festival promises to be the most exciting yet, with a star-studded lineup featuring world-class artists and a unifying message of community and inclusivity.The Melbourne Celtic Festival is the brainchild of Rotarian and passionate (nay fanatical) Irish musician, Sue Foley. Originally a response to the Black Summer Bushfire crisis in 2019, this vibrant Celtic music festival not only brings together enthusiasts but through ticket and raffle sales also supports critical mental health initiatives. Funds raised have gone directly to support projects including:
Backpacks for Kids – Crisis support for families fleeing domestic violence;
Mental Health Unit – a multi club initiative providing supplies to mental health units at public hospitals in Melbourne and Geelong;
Youth leadership and mental health support – WINTERSAIL 2024 Regatta
Story Dogs Program – Helping create a fun and supportive atmosphere for children learning to read; and Australian Rotary Health’s ground-breaking youth mental health research.
Bringing the Celtic Nations Together: St. Patrick’s Day is a fitting occasion to bring all the Celtic Nations together under one roof. From the lilting tones of Irish ballads to the stirring melodies of Scottish bagpipes, the Melbourne Celtic Festival is a celebration of the shared heritage that unites these nations.
Headliner for 2025 is SKERRYVORE is Skerryvore, Scotland’s most famous export (apart from Whisky) and three-time winners of the Live Act of the Year. Known for their electrifying live performances, Skerryvore blends traditional Celtic sounds with modern rock and pop influences, delivering a sound that is both timeless and fresh. Their headline set promises to be an unforgettable highlight of the festival.Port Phillip Rotary and the organizing committee extend heartfelt gratitude to our esteemed sponsors, donors, and volunteers whose unwavering support has made the event a resounding success. A special acknowledgment goes to our major partner, Community Bendigo Bank Murrumbeena, whose commitment has been instrumental. This event is proudly supported by the City of Melbourne, highlighting our community's spirit and collaboration.
Celebrate with Us! Join us on St. Patrick’s Day as we celebrate the vibrant traditions of the Celtic Nations, support vital mental health programs, and create unforgettable memories through the power of live music. Together, we’ll make the fourth Melbourne Celtic Festival an inspiring testament to the unifying spirit of community and culture.
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