The North Texas Irish Festival

On Saturday March 5, 1983, the First Texas Ceili was held in Nick Farley's Lounge, commonly known as the NFL. Nick and his partner Pete Lucas had been strong supporters of Celtic music and willingly agreed to host what they though would be a small gathering of Celtic musicians, their friends and music supporters.

As it turned out, the First Texas Ceili was a massive success, with far more audience than the NFL could comfortably handle. The overflow spread out into the parking lot and people strained to listen to the succession of bands through the open door.

Although none of the bands that played at that first musical gathering still exist in name, many of the musicians still play regularly in other bands in north Texas. Bands such as Jigsaw and The Irish Rogues can trace their roots directly to the First Texas Ceili.

Shortly after the event the organizers and other interested parties got together and decided that it was so successful that it was worth repeating. The date was fixed as the first weekend in March, and the North Texas Irish Festival was born. To organize and promote the event, plus give a focus for traditional Celtic music in North Texas, the Southwest Celtic Music Association was also created.

We dedicate these pages to the performers and volunteers who made the NTIF the largest Celtic gathering in the South.

	Historical List of NTIF Performers
	NTIF Website
	NTIF Photo Gallery