Eyes Were Smiling at Irish Fest in Berkley

(Sam Gurwin, Sept. 13, 2018)

Berkley, MI –The booths are brimming with Irish wares- mugs, clothing, keepsakes and more. The two music stages were shining in the mid-morning sun. Conditions were perfect to celebrate one’s Irish heritage or just have fun at the 3rd annual County Oakland Irish Fest.

We caught up with one of the Festival Creators, Jim Monahan. Out of the base of his Twisted Shamrock shop in Downtown Berkley, Monahan spoke of the origins and continued successes of this fledgling Festival.

A 5k run was added to this year’s event. Jake Belknap of Dearborn won the race with a time of

just over 20 minutes. Belknap mentioned he is new to the area and loves that the Celtic tradition is being celebrated.

Musicians and dancers kept two stages occupied through the day. Brawny voices filled one’s ears and the thoughts of Ireland were evident in the music.

Among the vendors was a high school student vendor named Genevieve of Sterling Heights. She needed money for her schooling and decided to freeze 4-leaf clovers in resin to make keychains, pins and other products. Some even glowed in the dark.

Tim Pruitt of Rochester Hills spent the day posing for pictures. His St. Patrick’s costume was complete with a pointy hat and staff adorned with snakes.

Irish luck was not needed on Saturday as this festival was already made for family fun and smiles.

Keep up with local events on the Oakland County Times Event page.