PORTLAND — The Maine Celtic Celebration was inducted into the Halla Cairde (Hall of Friends) on November 21, 2024, at the Maine Irish Heritage Center in Portland, Maine.

MCC President Christine Murphy and Vice President Karen O’Maxfield were on hand to accept the award. Among esteemed guests at the gala event were Maine Governor Janet Mills and Paul Rooney, Vice Consul of the Consulate General of Ireland in Boston.

Halla Cairde honors individuals and organizations that have significantly contributed to the Maine Irish Heritage Center and the broader community in preserving and promoting Irish culture, heritage and community spirit.

Maine Celtic Celebration is a 501(c)3 nonprofit, all-volunteer run organization based in Belfast that has, for the past 18 years, produced an annual weekend event in July that brings together music and dance performances, workshops, demonstrations, crafts, sports, food and beverages to celebrate Celtic Nations.

The 2025 event will be held July 18–20 and will include the ever-popular Cheese Roll Championship, Highland Heavy Games and Celtic Dog Contest in addition to music performances on two stages. Donations at the gate are accepted. $15 per person is suggested.