Celtic Fest Chicago   

Performing at: Grant Park

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Who doesn't want to own the sensuality of Bono, the artistry of James Joyce or Yeats, Oscar Wilde's wit or the bounty of Arthur Guinness, brewmaster extraordinaire? See and be all things Irish at the lively 10th annual Celtic Fest in Grant Park, extending the summer a wee bit into September. So Much to Do: After taking in performances by headliners, La Bottine Souriante and Natalie MacMaster, as well as Brian McNeill, Bangor Male Voice Choir and Baal Tinne, you'll be spouting adages like ''May the hinges of our friendship never grow rusty and our ale never turn musty.'' This year's festival showcases nine stages of national and international musicians representing all seven Celtic nations. Bring you favorite Seamus or Aidan (as long as he's 21 or over) to the Celtic Voice Tent for the new features -- Celtic Men in Kilts and a Men in Kilts leg contest! If you prefer your legs furry, you'll be gleeful to know that the sheepherding demonstration is back each day of the fest. Listen and Learn: Also back are the Ceili Dance Tent, live Celtic music at the Gathering Tent and the Celtic Art Fair full of hand-knit Irish wool sweaters, hand-crafted jewelry, photographs, paintings and more. Irish eyes smile on the manly Scottish heavy athletics competition, featuring the caber toss; the harp tent; and the dance stage featuring the fastest feet this side of County Cork. For the Kids: When little Finnegan and Delaney start working your last nerve, take them to the Kids Celtic Oasis or to the Bagpipe Parade where the pipes will drown out their high-pitched Irish whines.