About the Cortez Celtic Fair
The Cortez Celtic Fair is a celebration of Celtic culture, music, and community in the heart of Southwest Colorado. Each year, we bring together families, friends, and visitors to enjoy the rich traditions of Scotland, Ireland, Wales, and beyond.
From the lively sounds of bagpipes and traditional folk bands to highland games, dancing, and artisan vendors, the fair offers something for everyone. Local food and drink, cultural demonstrations, and family-friendly activities create an unforgettable experience that honors the spirit of Celtic heritage.
More than just a festival, the Cortez Celtic Fair is a gathering of community—where history meets fun, and where all are welcome to celebrate together. Whether you have deep Celtic roots or are simply drawn to the music and atmosphere, you’ll find yourself at home here.
Come raise a glass, tap your toes, and discover the magic of the Celts at the Cortez Celtic Fair!
Origins
The event originally began in 2017 under the name Celtic Day as part of the Montezuma County Fair.
In 2017, what began as a modest ‘Celtic Day’ inside the Montezuma County Fair sparked something bigger. Randy McKnight, then a fair board member, saw the public’s enthusiasm for music, Highland games, and cultural celebration, and felt there was potential to create a standalone festival. In 2018, he and his wife Kathleen moved the event to Parque de Vida and reimagined it as the Cortez Celtic Fair.
From the start, their goal was simple: to offer a free, family-friendly gathering that celebrates Celtic heritage. Because of that, beer tent proceeds go back into the community through local charities, ensuring the event supports more than just entertainment.
Over the years, the festival has grown in scale but remains grounded in that founding spirit: friendly, welcoming, and rooted in community. Whether a first-time guest or a devoted Celt at heart, we hope the Cortez Celtic Fair feels like a home away from home.
“We welcome everyone. That’s why we have free admission.”
The expansion included more vendors, musical acts, Highland games, more family-friendly activities, demonstration exhibits, etc., as the organizers saw interest growing.
Organizers & Ongoing Leadership
The event is primarily organized by Randy McKnight and his wife Kathleen McKnight. They co-lead the planning, logistics, and vision for the fair.
The fair involves multiple community and charitable partners. For example, proceeds from the beer/wine tent are donated to local charities.
We are a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to celebrating Celtic culture and community through annual events in Cortez, Colorado.
Founding Vision
From early on, inclusivity has been a guiding philosophy. All ages, backgrounds, and levels of familiarity with Celtic culture are welcome to attend.
The Cortez Celtic Fair generates revenue via vendor fees, sponsorships, and notably a beer tent, whose proceeds are donated to local charities. Over the years, cumulative donations have exceeded $12,700.
For example, in recent years, beer-tent proceeds have gone to local nonprofits like the Montezuma County Health Department Food Pantry (2024) and Renew (a local nonprofit aiding victims of domestic and sexual violence) in 2025.
Over time, event logistics have grown: in later years, amenities like golf cart shuttles are provided for attendees with mobility challenges, to help everyone enjoy the venue.
‘You don’t have to be Scottish to have fun.’”