What does the name "Feisin' the Coast" mean?

A feis (pronounced "fesh") is an Irish festival and dance competition.

Historically, entire communities would gather together for a feis and it would be a lively weekend filled with music, food, dancing, art, and sports.

There are numerous events throughout the year on the Mississippi Gulf Coast called "something the coast" (ex/ Cruisin' the Coast, Scrapin' the Coast, Shrimpin' the Coast" etc). That is where we got our inspiration for the name for this event! We are Feisin' the Coast! Overlapping by one day with Cruisin' the Coast, we have themed Saturday with 1950's and classic cars. Sunday's theme is all things beach, fun, and eco-friendly.

At our feis, we will have dancing, photo ops, and cultural competitions inside the Mary C with artisan vendors, food trucks, cultural demos, and a picnic area outside on the lawn. Don't forget our free Irish ceili at Empanola OS to close out the day! All Celtic musicians are encouraged to attend and play at our ceili.

Any age is welcome to attend and get involved - we offer Irish cultural competitions for all ages and experience levels!

Embrace Your Passions

Whether you're a music enthusiast, an art lover, or a baking prodigy, Feisin' the Coast has something for everyone.

Cultural Competitions

All ages and levels of experience are encouraged to participate!

You do not need to be affiliated with an Irish dance school to participate in the cultural competitions. All are encouraged to register! Competitions will be split by age if needed. All competitions will take place on Saturday, October 5, 2024. Registrations are allowed on the day of the event until 11:30am at the registration table.

Each cultural competition is $10 each to enter. One submission per person per category.

Irish Art

Create a piece of art inspired by Ireland. Open to all types of Celtic art including, but not limited to, painting, mixed media, drawing, photography, glass, sculpting, sewing and pottery. Please label the back of your piece with your name, age, and telephone number and bring to the registration table between 8:00 AM - 11:30 AM.

Judging will occur on Stage C at 12pm and be announced in the theater (Stages A & B) at 12:30pm.

Irish Baking

Prepare a baked good inspired by Irish food, drinks, or flavors. Open to all types of baking including, but not limited to, breads, scones, cakes, cupcakes and pies. Please prepare your baked good the day before (Oct 4) and bring covered or wrapped with a label on the bottom or on the covering with your name, age, and telephone number and bring to the registration table between 8:00 AM - 11:30 AM.

Judging will occur on Stage C at 12pm and be announced in the theater (Stages A & B) at 12:30pm.

Irish Language

Entrants may recite prose, prayer(s), recitation, or conversation. Language competition schedule will be released 1-2 weeks before the event.

Judging will occur on Stage C at 12pm and be announced in the theater (Stages A & B) at 12:30pm.

Irish Music

Music competitors will play one Irish or Celtic tune twice through. All instruments are welcome!

Judging will occur on Stage C at 12pm and be announced in the theater (Stages A & B) at 12:30pm.

Irish Singing

Singing competitors will sing an Irish or Celtic song in either English or Irish in traditional style meaning no accompaniment - just vocals.

Judging will occur on Stage C at 12pm and be announced in the theater (Stages A & B) at 12:30pm.

Tir na Nôg

This competition is for children 7 and under who have never had Irish dance lessons or are new to Irish dance and don't know any steps yet. A great opportunity for young children and aspiring dancers who want to go on stage like the big kids! Dancers are encouraged to perform their best Irish dance (whether they know one or not!) for 16 bars to a reel at speed 122. Irish themed outfits/costumes are encouraged. Everyone is a winner and will receive a prize!

The dance contest will occur between 11:30am and 12pm on Stage A.