Saturday's stage program had several highlights. Sharon Shannon and Mundy gave an inspiring performance, which they concluded with the song "Galway Girl". Their interpretation of this piece brought them world fame - the atmosphere was correspondingly reverent. This was followed by a ceremony to mark the tenth anniversary of the Irish Openair Toggenburg. The organizing committee was introduced and the Bergfründ Ennetbühl Yodelling Club gave the audience an insight into local culture. An arrangement by Willy Valotti and Roger Dubler blended Irish culture with Swiss customs. The Bergfründ Yodelling Club and Pigeons on the Gate performed a joint piece. The anniversary act was rounded off by the illumination of the Stockberg. This is fitting for the Irish Openair Toggenburg, as the silhouette of the Stockberg adorns the festival logo. Pigeons on the Gate and The Kilkennys then entertained the audience on the main stage until shortly after midnight. There was a lively atmosphere in the large tents until the early hours of the morning with music from Bunoscionn and The BeerMats.
Visitors to the Irish Openair Toggenburg were also able to gain a deeper insight into Irish culture at two workshops. The "Irish Dance" workshop taught simple Irish dance steps. The "Irish Beer Culture" workshop showed the history and special features of beer culture in Ireland. This included a tour of the St. Johann brewery and a tasting of typical Irish beers.
The 10th Irish Openair Toggenburg was a thoroughly successful event. The good weather contributed to the great atmosphere on the festival site. Such a festival would not be possible without the great support of many participants, especially the numerous volunteers. This is the only way to ensure that the Irish Openair Toggenburg can take place again next year. The event will take place on Friday, September 6 and Saturday, September 7, 2019.
