Events

Florida Keys Celtic Festival - Jan. 10-11, 2026

Florida Travel + Life Editors

January 5, 2026 — 2 min read

Experience the spirit of the Celtic nations with an island twist at the Florida Keys Celtic Festival. This lively, family-friendly celebration blends traditional Celtic music, dance, athletics, and heritage with the relaxed charm of the Florida Keys, creating a one-of-a-kind cultural festival you won’t find anywhere else.

2026 Dates & Location

Dates: January 10-11,2026
Location: Marathon Community Park, Marathon, Florida Keys

The park setting provides an open, walkable festival footprint perfect for performances, competitions, and cultural demonstrations.

Tickets & Admission

Admission is ticketed, with options typically including:

Single-day admission
Multi-day passes

Children are welcome, and discounted pricing may be available for youth or advance purchases. Ticket details and pricing are posted on the official festival website.

What to Expect at the Florida Keys Celtic Festival

This festival delivers an immersive celebration of Celtic culture in a tropical setting. Highlights include:

🎶 Live Celtic Music — Performances by traditional and contemporary Celtic bands throughout the festival.
💃 Highland & Irish Dance — Skilled dancers performing classic routines and step dancing.
🏋️ Highland Games — Traditional athletic competitions showcasing strength, skill, and heritage.
🛍️ Clan Village & Cultural Exhibits — Explore Celtic history, genealogy, and clan traditions.
🍀 Food & Drink Vendors — Festival fare inspired by Celtic flavors alongside local offerings.
🎉 All-Ages Atmosphere — Activities and entertainment designed for families, visitors, and longtime fans of Celtic culture.

Headliners / Featured Talent

Celtic music bands and performers
Highland Games athletes
Dance troupes and cultural presenters

(Performer and competition lineups are announced by the festival closer to the event.)

Costumes & Festival Spirit

Kilts are encouraged but never required! Many attendees embrace the fun by wearing tartan, clan colors, or Celtic-inspired outfits. Comfortable clothing and sun protection are recommended for a full day outdoors in the Keys.

How to Get There

Driving: Marathon is located along the Overseas Highway (U.S. 1), roughly halfway between Key Largo and Key West.
Parking: Event parking information is provided on the official site closer to the festival dates.
Air Travel: Visitors typically fly into airports serving the Florida Keys or South Florida, then drive to Marathon.

Where to Stay

Marathon and the surrounding Keys offer a range of accommodations, including resorts, boutique hotels, and vacation rentals. January is a popular travel month in the Keys, so booking early is strongly recommended.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the festival family-friendly?
Yes. The Florida Keys Celtic Festival welcomes attendees of all ages and includes cultural activities suitable for families.

Do I need to dress up?
No, but many guests enjoy wearing kilts or Celtic-themed attire to add to the fun.

Is the event outdoors?
Yes. The festival is held outdoors, so plan accordingly for weather and sun exposure.

Final Tips

Arrive early to catch the full slate of music and competitions.
Bring sunscreen, hats, and comfortable footwear for outdoor activities.
Take time to explore the Clan Village and cultural exhibits between performances.
Pair the festival with a Keys getaway—January weather is ideal for exploring the islands.