Bethlehem, March 13, 2024 – Senator Lisa Boscola announced today that has secured a $75,000 state grant to support the 37th year of the Celtic Classic Highland Games & Festival, the internationally known event that brings over a quarter million people to Bethlehem for the 3-day event in September.
“This $75,000 state grant ensures that the Celtic Classic, the largest free Celtic Festival in North America, will once again be a tremendous economic boon to the Lehigh Valley and our Commonwealth as over 180,000 patrons will come to the City of Bethlehem,” Senator Boscola stated. “We all remember last year when the torrential rains caused significant negative economic impact on The Celtic Classic and this state funding will help ensure that it will continue to bring world class performers and athletes to the Lehigh Valley that can only be witnessed in Bethlehem.”
“Senator Boscola and the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania recognize the importance of internationally recognized events, such as Celtic Classic, being held here in Bethlehem and their impact to the local, regional and state economy,” Jayne Ann Recker, Executive Director of the Celtic Cultural Alliance stated. “This state grant is a critical component of CCA being able to hold the Celtic Classic and maintaining its unmatched quality of athletic competition and musical performances.”
The Celtic Classic Highland Games & Festival, has been held annually in Bethlehem since 1988, with the exception of its cancellation in 2020 due to the COVID pandemic. It is not only unique to the Lehigh Valley, but also to the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. The three day culturally authentic event includes the US National Highland Games Championship, which is the “Super Bowl” to highland athletes, Pipe Band competitions, world class Celtic performers and cultural education performers.
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