Celtic Connections and is an integral and vibrant part of cultural life in Glasgow, with the economic impact on the city reaching £5.8 million in 2007. The festival actively promotes artistic links and cultural exchange across countries, reinforced by Showcase Scotland which brought 200 music industry delegates from 35 different countries to Scotland looking to book Scottish bands for festivals abroad in 2008. The 2008 festival opened with the Common Ground concert where many of the artists taking part in the event performed together. Donald Shaw, artistic director of the festival, spoke about the future of Celtic Connections as well as the
Mid-Maryland Celtic Festival Mid-Maryland Celtic Festival The Mid-Maryland Celtic Festival (formerly the Frederick Celtic Festival) is a one-day festival celebrating all things Scottish, held annually in Mt. Airy, Maryland, United States. The festival features kilted professional and amateur Highland Games athletes competing for victory tossing trees and throwing heavy weights. Other activities include Celtic music, competitions, bagpipe playing, crafts, vendors, Scottish and Irish dancing, and free genealogy services. Historically held in Urbana and Frederick (MD), starting in 2012 the festival was yo be held annually on the second Saturday each May at the Mt. Airy Fire Department Fairgrounds which are located at 1003