by InTrieste
From June 21 through June 30, the picturesque Boschetto del Ferdinandeo in Trieste will be transformed into a vibrant celebration of Celtic music and culture as it hosts the 2024 edition of the Triskell International Celtic Music and Culture Festival. This year marks the festival’s twenty-fourth anniversary, promising a rich tapestry of events designed to captivate both enthusiasts and curious visitors alike.
The festival, a unique collaboration between the Municipality of Trieste and the Uther Pendragon Cultural Association, seeks to honor and explore Celtic music and culture in its many forms. With various locations throughout Trieste and beyond, the festival aims to provide a multidisciplinary experience that engages a wide audience.
Unable to attend the press conference, Giorgio Rossi, the City Councillor for Culture and Tourism, extended his regards and commendations to the organizers, wishing them success in their endeavors. This year’s festival follows a highly successful 2023 edition and anticipates drawing a record one hundred thousand attendees.
A Musical Journey
The festival’s lineup is diverse, featuring concerts from international artists, theater performances, dance, cinema, visual arts, and interactive workshops. Local talent will also be showcased through the “Space for Local Groups” series, highlighting young musicians from Friuli Venezia Giulia.
The musical festivities will commence on June 21 with an electrifying performance by Lazio-based Muse del Diavolo, known for their dynamic drums and bagpipes accompanied by tribal dancers. They will be followed by the French band The Celtic Tramps. Highlights from the region include performances by Almakanta, Frina, and To Loo Loose.
Italian acts such as Ragnarok Duo, Arthuan Rebis, In Vino Veritas, and Falko, along with the Irish dance troupe Gens d’Ys, will also grace the stage. International acts include Gnoss from Scotland, Fabula Aetatis from Saxony, Tempus from the Czech Republic, Sheeban and Lyrre from Poland, and the Irdorath Fantasy Band from Belarus. The festival will culminate in a high-energy performance by The Groggy Dogs from Seville, Spain, blending punk, metal, and ska with traditional sea shanties.
All concerts are free of charge and will be streamed live on the Triskell YouTube channel, Facebook page, and Radio Punto Zero Tre Venezie’s website, the festival’s media partner.
Beyond the Music
The festival promises an array of captivating performances and activities beyond the music. Each evening will feature “Stories Around the Fire” by FireTales, with fire juggling and contact juggling performances by Vassago. The Triskell Bodypainting Contest, now in its sixth year, will revolve around the theme “Litha: The Summer Solstice,” an important date in the Celtic calendar, organized by Katia Simonetti and sponsored by Italia Bodypainting.
Families and children will find a haven in the myriad of workshops and activities available. The Compagnia di San Giorgio and Il Drago will once again engage children with interactive Harry Potter games, while “Greta’s Enchanted Garden” offers creative workshops for both young and old, featuring polymer clay modeling, magic wand making, and more.
Sports enthusiasts can partake in archery with ASD Dragon Rouge, culminating in the “X Alasdair Trophy” and “V Triskell Tournament.” Dance workshops, falconry sessions, and Celtic harp workshops add to the rich tapestry of events.
A series of conferences and historical discussions with experts, journalists, and writers will delve into the traditions, culture, and spirituality of ancient Celtic peoples. Attendees can also experience Celtic craftsmanship, explore the Artòs labyrinth, engage in harp therapy sessions, and have their future read by the Priestesses of the Arcane Garden.
A Culinary and Cultural Feast
The festival’s culinary offerings will feature a variety of food trucks serving medieval-inspired fare, including vegetarian options and vegan specialties, alongside Irish beer. A bustling market with about thirty exhibitors will offer exclusive Celtic and fantasy crafts.
The Triskell Festival will also host the “Celtic Lottery,” with a first prize of an €800 voucher for a trip to Galicia, adding an exciting element to the festivities.
As the festival approaches its quarter-century milestone, the Triskell International Celtic Music and Culture Festival continues to be a beacon of cultural celebration, drawing visitors from near and far to revel in the rich heritage of the Celtic world.
For more information and a detailed schedule, visit the festival’s official website.
