The green turned silver as the North Texas Irish Festival celebrated its 25th anniversary recently.
The NTIF is one of the largest festivals in the country to celebrate all things Celtic through music, dance, food and fun. Each year the three-day event highlights local and international bands that feature both traditional and contemporary Irish music, with a few Scottish groups included as well.
Although no leprechauns were on hand for the celebration, it was hard to miss the Celtic knots, which seemingly decorated every stage, vendor’s booth and even the faces of some children. The intricately woven designs are also popular decorations for jewelry.
Although the true meaning of Celtic knots has been lost to the ages, it is believed the continual looping of the designs suggests themes of eternity and interconnectedness. Many also believe knots may have been made at one time to foil evil spirits.
This year, the sunny skies brought out record-breaking crowds with an estimated 46,000 people in attendance, making the event the largest single event held at Dallas’ Fair Park, second only to the State Fair.
The NTIF is sponsored by the Southwest Celtic Music Association, and each year more than 600 volunteers assist in the plans, organization and execution of the festival.
