FRIDAY, AUGUST 10 - SUNDAY, AUGUST 12
Whether a rousing pub song or a haunting lament, we're smitten with Irish music - and it's not just a Guinness-fueled love affair. Hell, we're even willing to trek to the suburbs for the annual ICONS Festival at the Irish Cultural Centre of New England (200 New Boston Drive, Canton, 781.821.8291). Formerly known as the Irish Connections Festival, the three-day event features an impressive lineup of traditional and contemporary artists, each with a strong connection to the Emerald Isle. Friday evening brings the Black Crowes, the Saw Doctors, and Black 47, while Saturday's lineup includes Nanci Griffith and Antje Duvekot. Finally, enjoy the vocal stylings of the Tossers, the Dropkick Murphys, and others on Sunday. (Those wandering the festival grounds will also find author readings, genealogy workshops, Gaelic games, and dance performances throughout the weekend.) For more information, a full schedule, and tickets, visit www.iconsfestival.com; options include an all-access three-day weekend pass ($120), an all-access one-day ($50), and festival-grounds-only admission for Friday or Saturday ($20).
