MANITOWISH WATERS - "When you have something like this everybody turns a little bit Irish," said Irish Fest volunteer Ron Troller.
Ye Olde Shillelagh in Manitowish Waters hosted its Second Annual Irish Festival this weekend. The big draw for the volunteers and attendees is the music.
"Who doesn't like professional Irish music," said Troller.
"Everyone can identify with it," said Leahy's Luck band member Tom Leahy.
Leahy's Luck is one of four bands that are playing at the festival this year. The family band has been playing Irish music together for more than 25 years.
"I think the thing that's most appealing about Irish music, much like country music, is that it's a rollercoaster of emotions that are expressed through it. From the happiest to the saddest," said Bryan Leahy, who is Tom's brother and member of Leahy Luck.
Another musician at the festival loves being able to share a piece of his homeland.
"It's my way of celebrating my culture and getting in touch with back home and my roots and everything, and sharing it with everybody else," said band member of Paddygrass Derek Byrne.
The Manitowish Irish festival is a particular favorite among the performers.
"This place, Ye Olde Shillelagh is just like home to me, and any place that can play Irish music and share it with people, [I] love it," said Byrne.
Tom has high hopes for the festival's future, despite the event only being in its second year.
"I'm hoping this really catches on, I mean it's got a great start," said Tom.
At its core, the musicians say what draws people to the event is the music.
"It brings us all together, it doesn't matter who you are or where you come from. If you can enjoy music, we love ya," said Byrne.
Play Video
