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
Niagara Celtic Heritage Festival Highland Athletics Club. About 500 people attended the first year. The festival grew into an annual event in Olcott. In 2016 it occupied over 11 acres on the lakeside of Krull Park, had representation from about 40 Scottish clans, and included cultural and athletic demonstrations as well as Celtic music. The festival has three stages with musical acts, including bands, dance groups and bag pipe bands. The Celtic Arts Stage features solo acts and small groups. The Glen Stage allows guests to sit on the grass and enjoy the music while overlooking Lake Ontario. The Pavilion Stage, the first stage