Blaggards

Blaggards have been rockin' and rollin Sherwood Celtic Fest since we first began in 2011, and it is an honor to host them this year of Sherwood's Celtic Yuletide Festival. Blaggards like to shred something they call Stout Irish Rock: traditional Irish music mixed with rock n’ roll, influenced by everything from Johnny Cash and Elvis to Thin Lizzy and Black Sabbath. They are most frequently compared to bands like Flogging Molly, Dropkick Murphys, and The Pogues. They’ll join us on Saturday only for three priceless sets on the Greenwoode Theatre stage.

Book Signings by Author, Andrea Eames

Book Signings by Local

Sherwood Author, April Henley

On a visit from the Dragons’ Keep, the Lady April (whom the fae call Artemis) brings us a story of literature’s oldest and most famous wizard, Merlin. And she spins the tale in a unique book, the world’s first novel coloring book! Color stunning illustrations as you read of Merlin’s final feats of magic in his quest to save the magical races from disappearing from the world. The lady is a spinner of fantasy, a chronicler of the magical races, and when she is not writing stories, she enjoys whimsical foods, travel, and the mysteries of our world. Seek her out near the Elven Hill Stage Sunday December 14th!

Caitlin Sickels

Celtic Archery Tournament

Sherwood Celtic Yuletide Festival proudly present the Sherwood Archers!

These renown masters of the bow travel the country and the world, year round, winning national and world titles and smashing records. Come see these competitive pros in action at the Highland Games Arena. The Sherwood Archers will be competing at the Sherwood Celtic Yuletide Festival both Saturday and Sunday.

Tournament rules including entry requirements can be found here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1894109747480756/



Dallahan

Forged out of the traditional music scenes of Scotland and Ireland—yet influenced by the sounds of the Balkans, North America, and far beyond—Dallahan have spent over a decade guiding audiences through a musical world tour of their own making. Their dazzling live show, marked by restless creativity and stunning virtuosity, has come to be defined by its refusal to sit still. Guitarist and singer Jack Badcock, banjo player Ciaran Ryan, accordionist Andrew Waite, and fiddler Benedict Morris form the band that has evolved continuously while somehow remaining rooted in the traditions that first brought them together. Sherwood Celtic Yuletide Festival is proud to present "The Flying Aces of Celtic Folk" all three days of the Festival at Elven Hill Stage.

Earl Grey in the Morning

Earl Grey in the Morning is a duet that gives the audience a variety of light and hard driving Celtic tunes. As a duo, the Octave Mandolin/Guitar and Violin combination is able to produce a surprising amount of music with amazing complexity and texture.

Al Cofrin:

Multi-instrumentalist Al Cofrin is the Octave Mandoline player for Earl Grey in the Morning. Al Cofrin earned a BA in Jazz Theory & Composition at the University of Texas in the early 1980s. He became interested in Celtic music after attending a few Irish sessions in Houston and begin to write original tunes for numerous Celtic bands. In 2006, Al began playing with the Celtic band Clandestine, who has performed worldwide and formed Earl Grey in the Morning with Kristen Jensen in 2012. His performance in the folk Celtic genre brings a high energy drive to the stage which has become a perfect match for Earl Grey’s unique sound.

Kristen Jensen:

Originally from Central New York, Kristen spent 27 years teaching music and performing with her violin in Houston, TX. A graduate of Ithaca College, she began playing violin at age 4 with the Suzuki Method. Her musical passions range from classical to Celtic, Blues to Rock, and Gypsy music too!

Ed Miller

If you are looking for nostalgic, Brigadoonish schlock, this is NOT your man. But if you like good songs sung well, with a healthy mixture of realism and humor, you’ve found the right artist. Ed first learned his craft in the pubs and clubs of Edinburgh during the folk revival days of the 1960s; and his repertoire shows the width of that movement. From old traditional ballads and timeless songs of Robert Burns to contemporary songs of urban change, emigration, nationalism, and humor, a performance by Ed Miller gives a real taste of Scotland and shows his continuing love and knowledge of his homeland. Don’t be surprised, however, if he draws musical connections between the old country and his adopted home in Texas. Ed will join us Saturday at the Elven Hill Stage.



Emilie Young

Emilie Young, songbird of Sherwood, regales with tales of legends and lore. Find this talented vocalist spinning her musical spells at The Horseman Stage both Saturday and Sunday.

Enter the Haggis

One Show ONLY 9:30 Sat night! Toronto’s Enter The Haggis has combined bagpipes and fiddles with a rock rhythm section to create a distinctively eclectic sound, praised by The Boston Globe, The Washington Post, and Canada’s Globe and Mail. Their songs offer sing-along melodies and deep, meaningful lyrics which tell the stories of everyday hard-working people, often faced with seemingly insurmountable challenges. Signature songs like “One Last Drink”, “Gasoline”, “Down With The Ship” and “Lancaster Gate” have been streamed millions of times, have appeared in Hollywood movies, and have been performed and recorded by artists around the world. Although the band retired from touring in March 2025 after three decades together, Enter the Haggis is excited to unofficially reunite for the fiery finale at Sherwood Celtic Yuletide Festival. Don't miss this rare performance of true Celtic Rock legends.

Goode Folk, The

This curious bunch of Celtic troubadours has played at Sherwood many times but under a different banner. Let’s see if you true Sherwood fans can figure out their hidden identities. These gifted artists make music in the living tradition, especially of the British Isles and Ireland. Enjoy this unique and varied band of true bohemians, dedicated to their musical adventures. Stick to Music!

Haggis X-1

Be sure to catch this new band, built around veteran members of acclaimed Canadian group Enter the Haggis, as they rock Sherwood Celtic Yuletide Festival all weekend long, starting Friday night at Elven Hill Stage, and then on to The Greenwoode Theatre for the rest of the weekend. Haggis X-1 blends driving rhythms, pipes, fiddle, and memorable songs into a powerful live show that connects with longtime Haggis Heads and new listeners alike. The band delivers a celebration of sound, rooted in strong melodies, fiery instrumentals, and soulful improvisation. Haggis X-1 is built for live performance: a tight, seasoned band delivering big hooks, fiery instrumentals, and the kind of communal singalongs that turn every night into a celebration.

Hawk Walk

The Hawk Walk is an exciting add-on interactive event for festival days! The Falconer, and his small tour of no more than 15, walk the grounds flying the hawks from the trees to the gloved fist of each patron in turn while they experience the historical art of falconry. Patrons will enjoy the thrill of a bird of prey interacting with a trusted human companion. And between showings you'll be abe to visit the Royal mews - that's the Zoo-like area where the birds relax between shows.

Ticket price does not include festival admission.

Hawk Walks are Saturday Noon and 4 pm and Sunday at 2 pm.

Hawke the Balladeer

One-half of the Bedlam Bards takes the Horseman Stage for an intimate acoustic exploration of the musical history of faires near and far! Join Hawke as he shares his favorite songs and stories in the mid-afternoon.

Highland Games

Great Scots performing spectacles of strength and skill are guaranteed at the Highland Games Arena! These intense traditional competitions will last all day Saturday and part of the day Sunday. The games include Scottish Hammer Swinging, Shot Put, Weight over the Bar, the crowd favorite Caber Toss, and much more. Competitors of all ages are welcome to join in the fun!

For those interested in competing in the games, please check out the Highland Games at Sherwood Forest Faire Registration Page for more details!

House of Hamill

House of Hamill is a fixture on festival stages across the US and has shared their music and stories on the country’s premier folk stages. Their original song “Banks of the Brandywine” was a Grand Prize winner in the 2024 John Lennon Songwriting Contest, and the video for their all-violin cover of “Sweet Child O’ Mine” amassed over 16 million views on Facebook, where it was shared over 400,000 times. Whether they’re ripping through a set of original jigs and reels, adding lush three-part harmonies into traditional folk ballads, or cracking up an audience with stories from the road, House of Hamill puts on a show that captivates audiences from the very first note.

HUP!

HUP! is Houston’s premier traditional Irish band. Members include Matt Lewis (guitar, flute, whistles, and vocals), Robert Shaddox (vocals, bodhran), Larry Mallette (flute, whistles), Tess Hartis (fiddle, vocals), and Katie Geringer (fiddle, vocals). Their driving dance tunes will set your feet to tapping and their gorgeous ballads will warm your heart. This rockin’ Trad Irish band will keep you moving both Saturday and Sunday at The Elven Hill Stage.



Kirkin’ o’ th’ Tartan

On Sunday morning Rev. Jay Vocelka (Monk Michael) will hold a Kirkin’ o’ the Tartan at Maid Marian’s Chapel. This blessing to honor friends who’ve passed dates back to a time when Scottish traditions were banned in Scotland herself by her oppressors. All are welcome to join and all who do are invited to bring a swath of your own Tartan to hold as we recall the lives of our loved ones.



Meet the McDorks

The Faery Foest Stage comes to life with music, laughter, storybook singing and the adorable puppets of Clan McDork! Join Angus, Suzy, Granny and Pappy as they set out on a hilarious journey to discover their true ancestry. Along the way, they attempt to play bagpipes and try to tap into their Highland dancing skills. They compete in their own unique version of Highland Games and even meet some Pirates! Join Beth Mullaney of Killian's Angels for this Celtic Kids' show Saturday and Sunday at The Faery Forest Stage.

Mosaica

Mosaica is a merry band of singers weaving together voices and cultures into one harmonious tapestry. Formerly known as The FaLaLaers, this ensemble brings warmth and cheer to Sherwood Forest once more. With a new name, and with the same joyful spirit, their songs blend choral beauty with a touch of mischief, inviting all to share in the magic of music and merriment! Find them Saturday at Maid Marian’s Chapel!

O’Malarkey

You'll always have a great time with O'Malarkey! You’ll find this fun-loving, laid back Irish Trad band at the Lionheart Tavern both Saturday and Sunday. Here’s their recipe for fun Celtic music on the run:

~Take one smidgen of traditional Irish tunes

~Add a pinch of contemporary Celtic

~Season to taste with humor and song

~Blend well at high speed for 30 minutes or longer

~Slam it down, chase with Scotch, and call it O’Malarkey!

Off-Colored Treasures are saucy singing siblings, professional wenches, and award winning entertainers. Masters of naughty, bawdy, kinky, queer musical comedy, these wenches will titillate your funny bone and delight your senses. Come play with them at the Lionheart Tavern for their adults-only, rated-R Dumpster Fire Show at 9:30pm!

Piper Gunn: Bagpiper

Playing bagpipes for over 30 years, instrumentalist Piper Gunn brings the sounds of the Scottish Highlands to your ears at Sherwood Celtic Yuletide Festival. Enjoy classic melodies from Scotland and festive Christmas tunes while raising a mug to toast Piper Gunn's original music as you follow the sound of bagpipes across various stages throughout the festival both Saturday and Sunday. Ever seeking to deepen his knowledge of bagpipes, be sure to ask Piper Gunn about his new piping venture Kenneth Gunn Bagpipes as he learns to build expertly-crafted bagpipes for future pipers and audiences to enjoy!



San Antonio Pipes n Drums

The San Antonio Pipes and Drums, a non-profit organization formed in 1986, strive to present traditional bagpipe band music for the enjoyment of both musician and audience. Members wear traditional Scottish attire, each kilt an authentic tartan of the member's choice so that many clans are represented. Instruments played are the Great Highland Bagpipes and specially tuned drums. The group strives to improve performance and to encourage and assist beginners. They have played for audiences at festivals, weddings, ceremonies, and for dignitaries from the Queen of England to the President of Mexico. Join them Sunday for several rousing performances and marches at various venues.



Sand Rogues

The Sand Rogues will be building an amazing sand display that celebrates Celtic artistry and lore. Visitors can watch as skilled sculptors shape Sherwood sand into amazing works of art. Each sculpture is made by hand, showing the creativity and tradition of Celtic art. Their display, across from the Horseman Stage, will keep changing as it’s built, making it a fun and inspiring part of the festival for everyone to enjoy.

Santa and Mrs. Claus

Santa Claus hasn't finished his list just yet... No, he and Mrs. Claus heard about the Sherwood Celtic Yuletide Festival and they knew there would be some very special children coming - so to get these kids' Christmas wishes just right they've decided to spend ALL DAY both Saturday and Sunday taking requests from your bairns and wee-'uns at the Grove Gazebo right near the Front Gate Christmas Tree. Sherwood Photographers will be uploading your portaits online that you can download for FREE. No gimmicks - just freelance photogs who want to share the joy of the season - Sherwood-style.



Sean Orr's Celtic Texas

Celtic music with a Texas Brogue. Sean Orr's Celtic Texas focuses on high energy Irish and Scottish music. Sean has been a fixture of the central Texas Celtic music scene for over twenty five years and he's held residencies at several Irish Pubs as well as being a regular at many Celtic Festivals. Celtic Texas joins us Sunday at The Greenwoode Theatre just inside the Front Gate.



Solar Rain Fire Show

Solar Rain weaves firey wizardry with live flames, blood, sweat and tears. These dedicated artists master the power of all the elements to bring you a mezmerizing spectacle of light and shadow. This season Solar Rain Fire Show joins SYR for their finale set on Saturday evening only at The Greenwoode Theatre.



St. Thomas Alumni Pipes and Drums

The St. Thomas Alumni Pipe Band is a competitive Grade 1 bagpipe band based in Houston, TX. These are some of the most accomplished and technically advanced pipers in Texas, which means - in the World! These sharp-dressed pipers and drummers will play on Saturday at various locations around the festival grounds including the Highland Games arena, the Elven Hill Stage, and the Lionheart Tavern.



Thomas “Doc” Grauzer

Thomas “Doc” Grauzer plays harp music of Ireland, Scotland, and Wales from the Middle Ages, Renaissance, and Baroque periods on modern lever- and historical wire-strung Irish harps. He is a harper and storyteller of the Irish tradition, based in Austin, Texas. He enjoys telling to his listeners the stories of the composers and performers, historical anecdotes, folklore, and features the Irish language in his tales. Join Doc on the Three Celestials Stage both Saturday and Sunday.



The Wandering Whimsey

The Wandering Whimsey is a collection of bards from all corners of the realms. What started as a group of friends has grown to be a troupe worthy of kings!

Whiskey on a Sunday

Whiskey on a Sunday is Texas’s premier (and only) Flogging Molly tribute band. They bring the high-energy Celtic punk you know and love! Although their main focus is Flogging Molly music, they also play songs from The Decembrists, Dropkick Murphy’s, and original tunes all their own. They hail from Austin, TX and frequently play Irish Pubs like Kelley’s and other venues. Sherwood Forest is overjoyed to welcome these rollicking revelers back for this year’s Celtic festivities! Catch them pirating at The Argosy Stage both Saturday and Sunday.

The Yokes

The Yokes are an Austin Celtic folk-rock group featuring raucous pub songs, soulful ballads, and rousing songs from the sea. Drawing an extensive song library from the best of Ireland, Scotland, England, Canada, and America, their repertoire is sure to have you dancing, clapping, and singing along. They'll be rollocking aboard the Argosy Stage on Saturday and Sunday.