February 17, 2026 - For more than four decades, our community has gathered on Harriet Island to celebrate Irish music, culture, and craic together. Today, we’re excited to share the next chapter of that tradition.

The Irish Fair of Minnesota is becoming the Twin Cities Irish Fest!

Why the change?

Our new name reflects the vibrant, growing Irish community across both Minneapolis and Saint Paul while honoring the festival you’ve loved for generations. You’ll still find the same incredible music, dance, culture, food, and family fun along the Mississippi River—just with a name that better captures the energy of the entire Twin Cities.

“Our commitment to inclusivity for the entire state of Minnesota and beyond remains unchanged,” said the festival Board of Directors in a recent statement. “The new name is intended to help our audience better understand where they can attend this amazing event and take part in it, regardless of where they live or are traveling from - all are welcome at the Fest! The artists, dancers, vendors, volunteers, and visitors who make this festival feel vibrant and welcoming come from communities throughout the Twin Cities, Minnesota, and far beyond the state. That statewide, countrywide, and international spirit will always be a part of who we are and we firmly believe the new name is a tool that will help us grow our Irish Fest community and ensure its longevity for another 40 years.”

With a commitment to champion and support the work of local artists in Minnesota, The Twin Cities Irish Fest logo was created in collaboration with local graphic designer, Tony Horning, who worked closely with the festival team to develop an image that would help the event evolve into its next chapter.

BIIRD is an electrifying 11-piece, all-female collective formed in 2024. Blending powerhouse musicianship with bold, modern energy, BIIRD puts a fresh edge on centuries-old traditions—proving Irish music continues to evolve while staying true to its roots

Known for blending cutting-edge electronic production with the spirit of traditional Irish music, Chasing Abbey have quickly become one of Ireland’s most exciting and dynamic acts. Get you dancing shoes ready for this one. #tradhouse

It’s hard to imagine a band just coming into their own after 20 years of success, but that’s exactly what makes a true anomaly. Gaelic Storm, a multi-national, Celtic juggernaut grows stronger with each live performance.

The High King's unique blend of traditional Irish folk music and contemporary sensibilities is testament to their ongoing dedication to preserving and innovating Irish folk music for a new generation of listeners.

For more than a decade, brothers David Howley and Martin Howley helped redefine modern Irish folk as founding members of We Banjo 3, blending traditional Irish music with Americana and bluegrass to captivate audiences worldwide. Now they return with Howley.

Seo Linn is a dynamic Irish band from Galway known for blending traditional Irish music with modern pop and rock influences. The group gained international attention with their Irish-language cover of “Wake Me Up” by Avicii, which went viral online.

TopHouse is an Americana‑folk/roots band originally formed in Missoula, Montana, and now based in Nashville, Tennessee. They’re known for blending folk, bluegrass, Celtic, pop, and rock influences into energetic, foot‑stomping live performances.