Austin Celtic Festival

I love this festival: history, music, fish & chips plus Harp on tap – all held at a gorgeous time of year at the incredible Fiesta Gardens east of downtown. My older son is a history lover (last year, he asked that his sixth birthday be a «history» birthday – we did an ancient Egypt theme) but I’m not sure who loves it more, me, him or his younger brother who loves knights and battles.
We go early on the second day of the festival, Sunday (plenty of parking that way) and head straight for the Roman/​Celtic «camp». Here kids can «fight a gladiator» — don a helmet and protective vest, shield and sword and, well, fight a gladiator. You can talk to Roman soldiers in period gear and learn to chuck a Roman spear (the volunteers represent the «living historians» of the organization The Roman Way).
Last year, my three year old asked the historians how they chose to wear the different helmets on display. Good question, was the reply, and we learned of the different styles with regard to historical time period and function.
At the Celtic camp, you can explore a demo Celtic tent. Volunteers demonstrated spinning and weaving. My boys were guided through a leather stamping craft (free!).
We usually stop at a booksellers tent that specializes in children’s books, coloring books, and best of all, temporary tattoos (most of the ancient history kind – Celtic tattoos rule). There are a number of other artists and crafters that sell wares at the festival as well.
It is also our custom to eat fish and chips from Mother Egans (who has a cart at the festival). We eat on the bleachers and enjoy some live Celtic music under a covered music area. And can I say, that I love that it is completely socially acceptable to drink beer at noon? The last time I went I enjoyed watching a lovely ensemble of Scottish Highland musicians hanging out nearby (full kilts, lovely – what is it about men in tartan and skirts?), drinking pints and nipping on flasks. O it’s a party. Even when it’s early.
The linear layout of Fiesta Gardens (it follows Town Lake aka Lady Bird Lake) makes for terrific meanderings as you explore what the festival has to offer. There is usually a sheepdog demonstration, dancing, more music, storytelling, and workshops in various Celtic arts.
Last year, we especially enjoyed the Viking invasion (complete with Viking encampment). There was both a Roman/​Celtic battle reenactment and a Celtic/​Viking one. My boys chose a wooden Viking shield and had leather straps custom-​sized to fit their hands (not free) with matching wooden swords (I think it was $ 30).
Admissions does cost something (check website for prices), but I find it reasonable and worth every cent.