Tommy Makem Sends His Regrets

The SCMA and the NTIF regret to announce that Tommy Makem will not be able to attend this years North Texas Irish Festival.

Tommy has been unwell over the past week, and his doctors have advised him that travel and any performances would not be advisable. For the past few days the festival organizers and Shane Makem have been in almost constant communication and we have made the decision that Tommy's health is more important that coming down to Dallas. As you all know, Tommy is not as young as he used to be (aren't we all), and there are times that we all have to take doctors advice seriously.

The Makem and Spain Brothers will still be coming down, and will bring with them the spirit of Tommy, even though he cannot be here in person.

We deeply regret the decision, but feel that this is the right decision to make. We appreciate your understanding. I'm sure that Shane, Connor and Rory will appreciate any kind words that you may want to send back with them. (after you buy their CD that is.)

This means that we have had to make a number of changes to both the Saturday and Sunday schedules. Please check the schedule pages and stage signage for the latest information. The schedule as published in the program will not be accurate.

Welcome to NTIF 2007

The theme for this years festival is, obviously our 25th event, "The Green Turns Silver", and we are planning a number of activities centered around that monumental milestone. Check through our pages to see what we have in store for you this year.

Performer Schedule Released

The full schedule for all stages has now been completed and is available here. However, please note that this schedule is always open for change for all kinds or reasons.

Directions

Fair Park is experiencing a great deal of construction as DART builds the new rail link along Parry Avenue. Please check the directions page for latest access information.

Recent reports from the Dallas Opera suggest that the lights at 2nd Avenue and Parry are not adjusted to accommodate the radical change in traffic patterns, and a number of people have been arriving late. e strongly suggest that you plan a route that avoids this area if possible.

Volunteers

The Volunteer Meeting was full to overflowing, but it's still not too late to sign up and volunteer to work one or two shifts at NTIF. Sign up now using the online application.

Ticket Sales

You local Dallas/Fort Worth Tom Thumb stores are now selling one day (either Saturday or Sunday) tickets at one dollar off the normal $15 entry price. For a one day ticket this is the best price in town. Stop by your local Tom Thumb and ask about tickets to the North Texas Irish Festival.

Online Ticket Sales

Finally the online ticket sales are available. Special bonus this year is that SCMA members will get a 2-for-1 discount. Become an SCMA member and take advantage of this offer.

Dogs

We love dogs, and we welcome all of our four legged friends to the NTIF. However, we do ask that you keep your dog on a leash at all times and take care of their "bathroom needs".

This year we will ask you to make a $1 donation per dog and in return we will give you a supply of doggie bags thanks to our friends at Petco.

All donations collected will go to Dallas County SPCA to help their animal programs in this area.

Online Ticket Sales Closed

The online sale of tickets has now ended.

You will still be able to purchase one-day tickets at Tom Thumb or all variety of tickets at the gate. Remember, NO TICKETS WILL BE MAILED, bring your PayPal receipt.

Weather

Yes, north Texas weather in early March is always a concern for NTIF. Looks like this will be another great year. Local weather reports say highs in the 60's and no rain. Heck, we're happy if its' above freezing!!!

Host Hotel

The NTIF host hotel is again the very popular Radisson Central Dallas on US 75 at Mockingbird Lane. But hurry. NTIF has become so popular that the Radisson hotel is totally SOLD OUT. We have never sold out the host hotel so fast in any prior year.

However, we have an overflow hotel, the Holiday Inn, Dallas Central that is now online. The Holiday Inn is located at 10650 North Central Expressway just south of Royal Lane. That's just 4 exits north of the Radisson. We have expanded the room block, but hurry. If you cannot find a room, please call (214) 821-4173.

Gate Entry Hours

The NTIF gates will be open for admission during the following hours:

Friday, March 2       6:00 pm - 11:00 pm
Saturday, March 3   10:30 am - 11:00 pm
Sunday, March 4     11:30 am - 7:00 pm

Vendors

Complete vendor list and location plans for all buildings are now available in the vendor area. Check here to find all your favorite Celtic gift suppliers.

Friday Night - Green Light Special

Friday night is party night at NTIF and we have a deal for you. Clear off your desk, grab your brief case, round up your friends and head on down to Fair Park.

This year we are offering our own brand of happy-hour - FREE ADMISSION from 6pm to 7pm. Free parking, free admission and free bee... - almost gotcha!

OK we can do the first two. Come on down and get in free between 6:00 and 7:00 pm.

Quick Half-Off Friday

If your mean boss will not let you out of work early, or you live miles away in north Frisco, we still have a deal for you Quick will again be offering their 50% off discount coupons the week before the festival. Cut out any NTIF ad, make as many copies as you like and come to the festival for half off the regular $10 price.