Charleston’s Celtic Calling Gathering is a late-winter festival taking place over five days and featuring events throughout downtown and beyond. In 2022, the first world record for the largest gathering of people wearing unicorn horns was set during the Celtic Calling. In 2023, start to explore Celtic heritage, art, and culture March 1 through March 5 with these selected activities. Get a complete list of events at www.celticcalling.org
The Company Stores, The Mudlarks and Special Guests, March 3, Rock City Cake Company
Local favorites The Company Stores mix classic Celtic rock covers, jigs and reels with their own self-penned Appalachian fusion. Of course, they’ll be a guest bagpiper joining them! Ambient Celtic folk group, The Mudlarks (formerly Autumn Equinox), kick-off the proceedings. Admission is $15.
5K Kilt Run and 2K Walk, Saturday, March 4, Spring Hill Cemetery
Put on your kilt and dress up the dog for the Kilt Run/Walk. Enjoy beautiful views of Charleston while you navigate the cemetery’s winding, internal roads. Bagpipe music starts at 8:30 am and the race kicks off at 9 am. All proceeds go to beautification efforts at Spring Hill Cemetery.
Sheep, Weavers, Dance and More, Saturday, March 4, Kanawha County Main Library
In the library’s outdoor plaza, meet Scottish Blackface Sheep then step inside to learn how their wool is made into garments. There are also Limerick Writing and Celtic Dance workshops, StoryWalk® Reading Adventure, Celtic Crafts and an Irish I SPY Scavenger Hunt all for the littles. Library activities are from 9 am to 4 pm. Check the Celtic Calling Schedule for exact times and room locations.
The Celtic Village, Saturday, March 4, City Center at Slack Plaza
Immerse yourself in music, dance, crafts, history, and genealogy. Explore Clan Tents, crafters, children’s activities, including a mini–Highland Games, food trucks, dog show, and Mclaughlin Brigade reenactors. The village is open from 10 am to 4 pm.
Team Irish Road Bowling, Sunday March 5, Kanawha State Forest
A great event to either participate in or spectate. Bowlers hurl a 28 oz steel ball along the course. The team taking the least number of shots is the winner. Team Registration starts at 1 30pm, and competition starts at 2pm. Entry is free, but a refundable deposit of $5 for your road bowl is payable.
All images provided by Celtic Calling
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