The award-winning St. Augustine Celtic Music & Heritage Festival is set for March 14-15. The festival celebrating Celtic culture began in 2011 and has grown exponentially over the years.
In 2025, it was voted fourth in USA Today’s “10 Best Cultural Festivals in the U.S.” Albert Syeles, president of Romanza St. Augustine, president of St. Augustine EpiCentre Alliance and award-winning composer has been involved with the festival since the beginning.
Syeles said that it started along with the St. Patrick’s Day Parade.
“We felt strongly that St. Augustine’s Celtic roots deserved to be celebrated in a meaningful, visible way,” he said. “Watching it grow from an idea into a nationally recognized event has been incredibly rewarding.” He said he likes seeing people come together and appreciates the unity that the festival fosters.
The festival also raises awareness about Celtic culture’s role in St. Augustine’s rich history. Syeles explained how the city was founded in 1565 by Spanish Celts from St. Augustine’s sister city, Aviles, and shaped by Celtic influences from countries including Ireland, Wales, Cornwall and Scotland.
Each day of the festival features unique events that celebrate Celtic culture. Seven top touring Celtic bands will be featured along with other fun events and activities such as music workshops and Celtic dance performances. There will be delicious food and more than 50 Celtic artisans and vendors as well. The Highland Games are a major highlight of the festival where more than 100 athletes from across the country and internationally will compete in games such as the weight throw and caber toss.
Syeles said that the original Highland Games date back to the 11th century in the Scottish Highlands.
“One of the earliest stories traces them to King Malcolm III, who held competitions to find the fastest runner to serve as his royal messenger,” he said.
The festival also works with the Foundation for Scottish Athletes to produce the games and seeks to preserve the tradition and educate the public.
“People should understand that this festival is about much more than music or athletics,” Syeles said. “It’s about honoring the history of St. Augustine and celebrating a living cultural tradition.”
To learn more about the festival and to purchase tickets, go to celticstaugustine.com.
