MUSKEGON, MI – The Michigan Irish Music Festival will celebrate its 20th anniversary by bringing the most bands yet to the Muskegon event.

The festival is set for Thursday-Sunday, Sept. 12-15, at Heritage Landing park in Muskegon. It will include seven covered stages featuring Irish and Celtic musicians.

This year’s festival will host a record 26 bands, according to a news release. It is expected to draw a crowd of 40,000.

The festival kicks off Thursday, Sept. 12, with the Pub Preview Party featuring food, beverages and three bands all in one tent. The full festival begins Friday.

In addition to live music, the Celtic Kitchen and beverage stations will serve authentic Irish food and drinks, according to the release. The Tea Room will offer non-alcoholic choices and treats in a relaxed atmosphere.

Other activities will include the Irish Market and Irish Store, children’s activities, a cultural center, and a session tent. FEIS, an Irish dance competition, and the Highland Games are always highlights on Saturday. On Sunday, Catholic mass is at 9 a.m. and is followed by a traditional Irish breakfast.

Advance tickets are available online. Patrons save $5 per ticket online compared to the gate price. The festival offers an Early-In Free promotion from 5-6 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 13.

Here are the entertainers announced so far:

Gaelic Storm

High Kings

Aoife Scott

One for the Foxes

JigJam

Doolin'

Pigeon Kings

Drowsy Lads

Connla

Conifers

Colm Keegan

Shane Hennessy

Seamus Kennedy

Blackthorn

Moxie Strings

Tallymoore

Kennedy’s Kitchen

Brother Crowe

Conklin Ceili Band

Crossbow

Peat in the Creel

Uneven Ground

Barley Saints

Moxie

.