Pipe bands, kilts star at Northwest Celtic Fest in Hoffman Estates
A pipe band competition, live music, and a Scotch and beer tasting highlighted this year's Northwest Celtic Fest Saturday at the Sears Centre Arena in Hoffman Estates.
The event also featured Celtic vendors and crafts, an indoor soccer tournament, Celtic cuisine, free games for children and dance performances.
The word "Celtic" is often used to describe people of Brittany, Cornwall, Ireland, Isle of Man, Scotland and Wales, as well as their respective cultures and languages.
"This is the first time I've been here," said Betty Junj-Kilcullen of Arlington Heights, who donned a green sweater and socks for the event. She said the music was her favorite part of the day, adding that she wants to visit Ireland someday, but her husband is resisting.
Jeff Kehoe of Elgin was attending with his friend Bo Kaser of Carpentersville. Kehoe said, "anytime you get to wear a kilt," it's a good reason to go to an event. He said that he has a daytime kilt, a dress kilt and a workman kilt that has a spot for a hammer and tape measure.