Global performers and local acts headline New Mexico Renaissance Celtic Festival entertainment lineup

EDGEWOOD, N.M. — The New Mexico Renaissance Celtic Festival is bringing an expansive roster of performers to the East Mountains, promising an immersive entertainment experience across five themed stages.

The festival, running March 28-29 and April 4-5 at Wildlife West Nature Park, features a diverse cast of musicians, dancers, stunt performers, and interactive characters designed to transport attendees back in time.

Headlining the opening “Celtic Themed Weekend” on March 28-29 are the internationally acclaimed Harp Twins, Camille and Kennerly. The duo will deliver daily performances at 1:30 p.m. and 3:30 p.m., playing a mix of electric and acoustic harp arrangements featuring Celtic classics, Viking scores, and fantasy themes. The twins will also host daily meet-and-greet autograph sessions.

For the festival’s second weekend on April 4-5, European touring sensation Celtica Nova will take the stage. Billed as a “Highland Rock Spectacle,” the group combines traditional bagpipes and drums with hard rock elements and fiery stage theatrics.

Throughout both weekends, stage shows are included with general admission. Attendees can explore scheduled performances across the Queen Stage, Celtic Viking Stage, Ole’ Barn Stage, Shipwreck Cove, and the Arena Stage.

Local and regional acts will anchor the daily schedules. Highlights include heavy-hitting arena demonstrations by the Albuquerque Sword Lab, equestrian feats in The Loyal Horse Show, and traditional step-dancing by the McTeggart Irish Dancers of New Mexico.

Visitors can also expect a heavy dose of interactive street theater, belly dancing, and musical comedy. Wandering acts and stage troops include the Tingley Beach Buccaneers, the Brethren of the Sunken Skull, the Shamshir Sword and Dance Troop, the Flint Hills Fairies, and the roaming Zepher the Dragon.

A central figure of the festival, Mary Queen of Scots, will personally welcome guests at the gates each morning at 9:30 a.m. The Queen will also host a daily “Tea with the Queen” at 11:30 a.m. and preside over a free “Kids Knighting Ceremony” every afternoon at 2:30 p.m. at the Queen’s Court Gazebo.

For a complete daily schedule of stage shows and performances, attendees can visit www.nmrenfest.net.