Celtic Kickoff – PEI Festival of Small Halls

It’s going to be a big night! Kick off the PEI Festival of Small Halls with an electrifying evening of East Coast tradition and high-energy performance.

Two of the region’s most celebrated Celtic acts take the stage for a full-throttle musical experience. Maukin brings together seasoned performers Jesse Périard, Rowen and Caleb Gallant, and award-winning piper Nick vanOuwerkerk. With roots in the acclaimed trio Ten Strings and a Goat Skin, Maukin pushes the boundaries of Celtic and Acadian traditional music with skill, creativity, and infectious energy.

Joining them is JUNO-nominated Rum Ragged, known for their bold, modern take on the folk traditions of Newfoundland and Labrador. With a rich mix of instruments—including bouzouki, fiddle, bodhrán, banjo, guitar, and button accordion—the band delivers a powerful and authentic East Coast sound that captivates audiences everywhere.

Get ready for a night of lively tunes, driving rhythms, and unforgettable performances that celebrate the spirit of Atlantic Canada.

Don’t miss Celtic Kickoff—an incredible start to the festival and a must-see event for music lovers.

PEI Festival of Small Halls 2026

Experience one of Prince Edward Island’s most beloved cultural events—the PEI Festival of Small Halls—a one-of-a-kind celebration of music, dance, and storytelling set in charming rural venues across the Island.

Running June 12–21, 2026, this award-winning, ten-day festival brings together local talent and international artists for unforgettable performances in more than 40 historic community halls from tip to tip of PEI. Known for its intimate atmosphere, the festival offers a rare opportunity to connect with artists and experience authentic Island culture up close. From folk and roots to traditional music and storytelling, each show captures the spirit of community and creativity that defines Prince Edward Island.

Whether you’re a visitor or a local, the PEI Festival of Small Halls offers an exceptional Island experience—where world-class performances meet warm community spirit in some of the most unique venues on the East Coast.