BETHLEHEM, Pa. — It's still more than a month before the 37th annual Celtic Classic takes over downtown with kilts and kegs, but contests for the festival that celebrates all things Irish, Scottish and Welsh already are starting.
The Celtic Cultural Alliance, which holds the festival, has announced annual contests at the Celtic Classic that everyone can be a part of and celebrate their Celtic heritage.Celtic Cultural Alliance news release
The Celtic Cultural Alliance, which holds the festival, has announced annual contests at the Celtic Classic that everyone can be a part of and celebrate their Celtic heritage.
The Scottish Shortbread Baking Contest, sponsored by King Arthur Baking Company, will be at 11 a.m. Sept. 28 at Celtic Heritage Hollow.
Do you have a family recipe that has been handed down? Or do you have one of your own that you perfected? There's also a gluten-free and children’s category.
The deadline to submit registration forms is Sept. 5. The contest limited to 10 entries.
Contestants must use King Arthur Flour in their recipe and provide proof of purchase (UPC Code from flour bag or receipt).
The shortbread will be judged on taste, overall appearance, creativity and texture.
The top three scores will receive prizes sponsored by King Arthur Flour.
There's no fee to enter the contest.
To promote the next generation of bakers, there also will be a category we will have one prize for a baker younger than 18. The junior contest is limited to five entries.
Poetry and haggis
The Celtic Poetry Contest is open to writers of all ages. Poetry awards will be given to the entries that best reflect the culture of the seven Celtic nations in traditions, arts, history or literature.
Personal anecdotes of family, studies, or traveling experiences are also welcome.
Submissions will be accepted until Sept. 1.
The annual Haggis Bowl is always a crowd favorite.
Fifteen people will compete at 5:15 p.m. Sept. 27 at Celtic Classic Highland Field to see who can eat a pound of haggis the fastest.
No condiments, seasonings or sauces are allowed; the haggis must be eaten as presented. Beverages are permitted.
The winner walks away with bragging rights, $25 worth of Celtic Classic food and beverage tickets and a 2024 Celtic Classic souvenir mug.
Entry, which costs $20, is due Sept. 5.
For more information on the Celtic Classic, directions, volunteering opportunities, the weekend’s schedule and other Celtic Cultural Alliance events, go to the organization's website.
