Michigan Business Beat | Laura R. Holmes, Celebrating 25 Years: Michigan Irish Music Festival

Michigan Business Network

Jeffrey Mosher welcomes Laura R. Holmes; Marketing Director, Michigan Irish Music Festival, Muskegon, MI. They're the 8ThirtyFour Integrated Communications Spotlight interview of September 2024. 1. As you celebrate the 25th anniversary of the Michigan Irish Music Festival, what do you think has been the key to its longevity and growth over the years? 2. The festival has expanded from one stage and five performers to six major stages and over 30 artists over the years, what factors have made that possible? 3. The event is 100% volunteer-run, and many of those volunteers have been with you from the start. What does it mean to see the community continuously coming together to support this event? 4. What should festival attendees be most excited for in the 25th year of the event? 5. Beyond music, what other cultural experiences can attendees expect at the festival? 6. The festival is part of Muskegon's larger arts and culture scene, which has a multi-million-dollar economic impact in that community each year. What role do you see the Michigan Irish Music Festival playing in this larger effort? 7. With approximately 11% of Michigan residents claiming Irish ancestry, how does the festival cater to both those with Irish heritage and those simply interested in the culture? 8. Giving back to the community is a big part of the festival and its purpose, donating about $400,000 and over 20,000 pounds of food to local charities since 2008. Can you tell us more about these initiatives? 9. How has the festival's growth impacted its ability to contribute to the local community? 10. Looking ahead, what are your goals for the festival's future growth and impact on Muskegon's economy?