BETHLEHEM, Pa. — The 38th annual Celtic Classic, which brings kilts, kegs and all things Irish, Scottish and Welsh downtown, still is three months away, but plans for the annual event are already underway.
The Celtic Cultural Alliance, which holds the festival, on Friday announced annual details of contests at the Celtic Classic "that everyone can be a part of and celebrate their Celtic heritage."
"Each year CCA looks forward to patrons entering these contests and showcasing their talents."Celtic Cultural Alliance news release
The alliance is seeking participants.
"Each year CCA looks forward to patrons entering these contests and showcasing their talents," the alliance said in a release.
Celtic Classic Highland Games & Festival, which annually brings up to 40,000 people to downtown Bethlehem and the Colonial Quarters, is scheduled Sept. 26-28.
The contest are:
Scottish Scones Baking Contest. Do you have a family recipe that has been handed down? Or do you have one of your own that you perfected? There is also a gluten free and children’s category.
Deadline to enter is Sept. 1, with the contest at 11 a.m. Sept. 27 at Celtic Heritage Hollow.
Entries will be judged on taste, overall appearance, creativity, and texture. The Top 3 will receive prizes sponsored by King Arthur Baking.
There also will be one prize for a baker under age 18; the junior contest is limited to 5 entries.
Poetry and haggis
Poetry Contest: Open to writers of all ages. 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 travelling experiences are also welcome.
Deadline to enter is Sept. 1 Winners will be notified by Sep. 17 and awards presented at Celtic Classic on Sept. 28, when winners will be given the opportunity to read their poem on the Heritage Stage at 11:30 a.m.
Haggis Bowl 2025: 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.
Registration already is full. To be put on the waitlist, email info@celticfest.org.
