The mission of Celtic Cultural Alliance is to preserve and promote the Celtic culture, through education, musical presentations, and traditional competitions in athletics, piping and dance.
HISTORY On Columbus Day weekend in 1988, the fi rst Celtic Classic was presented by a small group of individuals. Organized as Celtic Fest, Inc., the goal was to create an event that symbolized the Celtic spirit and history, and to provide the impetus for an organization that focused on promoting Celtic culture. This organization has now evolved into Celtic Cultural Alliance, to better communicate the overall goals of the organization.
The first Celtic Classic, in Historic Downtown Bethlehem, was attended by approximately 30,000 people from Southeastern Pennsylvania and Western New Jersey, who braved snow squalls and an average temperature of 47º. The venues for this inaugural event included the Sun Inn Courtyard and the Community Arts Pavilion, along with the Grand Pavilion and Parade Grounds, which are still a part of this nationally acclaimed event.
Although the situation looked gloomy for the event, the City of Bethlehem pitched in, committees regrouped, tightened their purse strings, and the event was moved to the last weekend of September, where it has remained. The Celtic Classic has since blossomed into the largest Highland Games and Festival in North America. In 2006, over 260,000 visitors came to Historic Bethlehem to join in this celebration of all things Celtic. Now in its 19th year, preparations are underway to welcome visitors from around the world to this one of a kind event for 2006.
In 1992, on the 5th Anniversary of the Celtic Classic, the organization expanded into year-round programming. In partnership with Moravian College, a series of lectures was introduced and presented in Foy Hall, on the Moravian College campus. In the years which have followed, the educational programming has expanded to include community outreach events throughout the Lehigh Valley.
COMMUNITY HISTORY The fi rst Celtic immigrants, who were of Scottish and Irish descent, arrived in the Lehigh Valley circa 1728 from the northern province of Ulster. Today, the Scottish, Irish, Welsh and Cornish remain a dominant force, comprising nearly 30% of the Lehigh Valley population. Incorporated in 1986 under the name Celtic Fest, Inc., Celtic Cultural Alliance celebrates the rich traditions of Celtic culture and heritage. Celtic Fest, Inc./dba Celtic Cultural Alliance is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization supported by over 750 volunteers, its board of directors and staff.
In support of its mission, Celtic Cultural Alliance presents the following activities throughout the year:
• The Annual Celtic Classic- Historic Downtown Bethlehem
• The Annual Winter Classic – Lehigh University Campus
• The Spring Classic – Lehigh Valley Zoo
• The Celtic Banquet – The Burnside Plantation
• In house educational programming
• A Celtic Cooking Series
• Pennsylvania Council on the Arts programming
• Musical and Theater act performances
• Local school and community outreach programming
• Living history presentations
SPONSORSHIP PHILOSOPHY
Celtic Cultural Alliance is a community organization, enjoyed and owned by the community it serves. Through a myriad of committees, area residents help to shape the Celtic Classic and the other programming activities which define the organization. To provide opportunities for varied corporate partners and individuals, Celtic Cultural Alliance has developed a comprehensive, yet flexible, sponsorship program Consistent with this philosophy, promotional fees are established through research and diligence to reflect the cost of presenting diverse programming and services to its patrons.
Celtic Cultural Alliance is committed to bringing the fi nest presentation of Celtic culture, heritage, crafts and other activities to its patrons. By sponsoring a site, a stage, an event or activity at the Celtic Classic, The Winter Classic, The Spring Classic or other events presented by Celtic Cultural Alliance, our partners associate themselves with wholesome, family oriented activities, in celebration of the community. This is a commitment taken seriously. With an experienced staff and a cadre of dedicated volunteers, our operational goals include presenting our partners in a positive public manner. Celtic Cultural Alliance is always available to assist its partners in the creation of promotional activities designed to enhance their sponsorship.
SPONSORSHIP STRUCTURE To accommodate the specific needs of our business partners, Celtic Cultural Alliance has constructed its sponsorship package to include a wide price range of benefit options. The list of sponsor benefits grows as the financial commitment of our financial partners increases. The minimum sponsorship level for Celtic Cultural Alliance is $1,000.00.
TITLE SPONSOR The most valuable commodity an event has is its name. For one company only, Celtic Cultural Alliance will identify the Annual Celtic Classic, Winter Classic or Spring Classic with the name of its Title Sponsor. The Title Sponsor’s name shall be included in all public mention, promotion, press releases, advertising and any other media identification, when Celtic Classic or Winter Classic is mentioned.
PRESENTING SPONSOR In lieu of a Title Sponsor, Celtic Cultural Alliance will entertain identifying one business partner as the presenting sponsor of the Celtic Classic, Winter Classic or Spring Classic. The Presenting Sponsor status is reserved for one company whose name shall be identified with the event. The partner’s name shall be included in all public mention, press releases, advertising and any other media identification. Once officially contracted, the event will be known as the Celtic Classic, Winter Classic or Spring Classic presented by Celtic Cultural Alliance and “ABC Company”. For either Title Sponsor or Presenting Sponsor, each time any media uses the event name, it must identify the Title or Presenting Sponsor. This offers tremendous name recognition and visibility for our Title/Presenting Sponsor(s) to build brand loyalty and product awareness. This recognition can distinguish that sponsor and its products from its competitors.
ENTITLEMENT SPONSOR By entitlement, we mean a sponsor’s name shall be identifi ed as part of the site, stage, festival or organizational activity’s name. The Sponsor’s name will appear in all promotional brochures, programs, advertising, etc., in association with the site, stage or activity sponsored. Entitlement sponsorships allow a company’s name to be linked with a specific site, stage or activity at the event, as an example, “The ABC Tavern In The Glen” or “The ABC educational program”. If all promotional deadlines are met, our Entitlement Sponsor’s name and logo will appear in the Celtic Classic promotional advertising.
ENTITLEMENT SPONSORSHIP opportunities may include:
U.S. National Highland Athletic Competition
Annually, the 10 best athletes, competing in the United States Circuit, are invited to Bethlehem, PA for the U.S. National Highland Athletic Championships. This grueling competition attracts thousands of spectators to witness this unique style of athleticism. These events take place on the Highland Field, located in the heart of the Celtic Classic grounds. Nonstop radio and television coverage of these events provide for significant exposure for a sponsor or sponsors.The Highland Field
The Highland Athletic Events, the border collie demonstrations, the drum major competition, the Haggis eating competition and the Massed Bands take place on the Highland Field, throughout the days of the Celtic Classic. The Highland Athletic Events are by invitation only and attract the best in their fields. These are the most visible events showcased at the Celtic Classic. Physically, they are located in the heart of the festival grounds.Historic IceHouse
A major entertainment venue located on Sand Island, specializing in performances where an intimate audience and interaction are required. The Celtic Fiddle competition and Ecumenical Service also take place at The IceHouse.Winter Classic Main Stage
The most visible location at the Winter Classic, visible to over 5,000 patrons.Grand Pavilion
Located beneath the Hill-to-Hill Bridge, this site features our largest stage, beneath our largest tent. Our featured performances take place at the Grand Pavilion each evening of the Celtic Classic. This site also features food and beverage vendors, and a large craft merchant area.Monocacy Moor
Located in and around the Bethlehem Historic Industrial quarter, this site features major entertainment on the Moor Stage. Monocacy Moor also features two craft merchant tents, and a Celtic food court. Monocacy Moor has proven to be the place to attract families for an entire days worth of entertainment and activities.The Heritage Stage
Located in the Ring of Celtic Heritage is a quiet performance area featuring family oriented performances, storytelling, Gaelic language instruction, demonstrations of Irish dance and tales of Celtic Mythology. In the evening, the Heritage Stage is the home to our popular Seisiuns, which allow patrons to join with festival performers in playing traditional music.Heritage Area
Also located in the Bethlehem Historic Industrial District, the Heritage Area features the clans and societies of the Celtic cultures. Artisans can be found demonstrating their crafts and patrons have the opportunity to explore their ancestry and to interact with representatives of their clan. The Heritage Stage, introduced in 2006, showcases artists in an intimate setting. The Heritage Stage is set in the heart of our clan area, in, the Ring of Celtic Heritage.Winter Classic Merchant Marketplace
Located on 2 levels inside Stabler Arena, featuring crafters and demonstrators from throughout the United States and Canada.The Glen
Located on the southern end of the festival grounds, The Glen features a well appointed, tented stage, The Tavern, with the feel of a traditional pub environment. This site also features craft merchants, food vendors and family activities.The Piping Grove
Located on the campus of Moravian College, the Piping Grove was introduced in 2006 and has received rave reviews from the competing pipe bands. Grades I, II, & III pipe bands will compete for two days. The Celtic Classic Invitational Pipe Band competition feature some of the best pipe bands in the United States and Canada.Celtic Classic Invitational Pipe Band Competition
Grade II & III pipe bands from the United States and Canada compete in a two day competitions. This Invitational Competition features the best available pipe bands and are always a crowd favorite. The Celtic Classic Pipe Band Competitions take place in the Piping Grove at Moravian College.
MAJOR SPONSORSHIP – Major Sponsorship categories identify those sponsors who participate in a very visible manner or are associated with major activities occurring at the Celtic Classic or the Winter Classic. This category of sponsorship may be a performance area where music and dance will be presented, an athletic competition, a demonstration of sheep herding dogs, a culture series presentation, children’s activities, etc. A Major Sponsorship allows a company sponsor’s name to be identified with a specific performance or event, both in print and verbally
through introduction and recognition from our stages.
MAJOR SPONSORSHIP opportunities may include:
Individual Highland Athletic Events
Braemar Stone The earliest form of strength competition on record in Scotland. This event features a 24 pound river stone tossed from a standing position.Weight Toss for Height In this event, athletes swing a 56 pound weight between their legs until they gain enough force to throw it over a horizontal cross bar, suspended above them. Each athlete gets 3 attempts and the winner is the one who clears the highest height.
The Stone Put Similar to the shot put, this event involves putting a 17 pound stone as far away from the athlete as possible.
The Weight Throw For Distance Each athlete tosses a 28 pound and a 56 pound stone for distance. This event takes place over two days of the Celtic Classic, with one weight each day.The Sheaf Toss In this event, athletes must use a three tined pitch fork to pitch a 20 pound bale of hay over a cross bar. The winner is the athlete who tosses the sheaf the highest.
The Hammer Throw The Celtic Classic Hammer Throw features two throwing events, the 16 pound hammer and the 22 pound hammer. The hammer has a deep-handle attached to the ball by a wire and must be thrown for distance. This event is held over two days featuring both weights.
The Caber Toss The Caber Toss is a demonstration of both accuracy and skill. The caber has three distinct events at the Celtic Classic, the World Invitational Caber Championship, the Highland Games Championship and the Challenge Caber Toss. The caber events are presented all three days.
Drum Major Competition
Drum Majors convene on the Parade Grounds on Saturday to showcase their skills and compete for cash awards.Individual Pipe Band Sponsorships
The competing Pipe Bands travel from throughout the U.S. and Canada to compete. Sponsors of these competing bands will be announced at each competition of the sponsored band, as well as banner display in the Showing of the Tartan Parade and at the Massed Band ceremonies.Sponsors’ Reception
A special reception for our sponsors takes place on the Friday evening of the Celtic Classic. This lavish event takes place on the grounds of the Celtic Classic. This is an excellent opportunity for business-to-business marketing.Featured Concerts
The Celtic Classic and the Winter Classic feature the finest in nationally and internationally recognized Celtic musicians. Each band is available for sponsorship and will identify the sponsor, both visually and from the stage prior to their performance.Celtic Classic Parade
On Saturday morning, prior to the opening ceremonies, a traditional parade marches through the streets of Historic Bethlehem. This display of pageantry concludes at the Parade Grounds and features our competing
pipe bands, regional school marching bands, athletes, dancers, sponsors, and dignitaries and clans.Seisiuns
Seisiuns, or sessions, as we know them, are presented at the Heritage Stage, located in The Ring of Celtic Heritage. Seisiuns take place nightly, allowing our patrons to bring their instruments and voices to join with our Celtic Classic performers in a communal performance opportunity.
IDENTIFICATION SPONSORSHIP This level of sponsorship associates a different sponsor with an athlete, band or specific entertainer performing at the Celtic Classic. The sponsor’s name will be recognized in all areas related to this individual or group. In addition, the sponsor will be recognized prior to the performance or competition.
Identification Sponsorship opportunities include:
Celtic Athlete A sponsor can be identifi ed as sponsoring a specifi c athlete throughout the competition and throughout the weekend of the Celtic Classic, with their business name and logo on the individual athlete’s shirt.
Entertainment Sponsor A sponsor can create visibility and recognition through the sponsorship of a specific entertainer on one of the stages during the Celtic Classic and the Winter Classic. The sponsor’s name will be identified at the beginning of the performance of that artist and at the conclusion.
Fiddle Competition
With one of the most competitive and unique competitions of its kind, a sponsor can have visibility in association with the performances and with the awards presented to the winners.Border Collie Exhibition
A crowd favorite at the Celtic Classic, the Border Collie Exhibition creates a level of energy and excitement that spills over to the sponsor.Pipe Bands
The bands competing at the Celtic Classic Invitational are identifi ed with their individual sponsor throughout the weekend, including the Showing of The Tartan Parade, during the pipe band competition, in The Piping Grove and when entering the Highland Field for Massed Bands.
OTHER SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES AND BENEFITS
Throughout the year there are many opportunities to participate as a sponsor for activities presented by Celtic Cultural Alliance. The preceding pages are just an overview of recognized community programming, presented annually. This information should only serve as a guide to assist in structuring a sponsorship that works for you both fi nancially and philosophically. Sponsorship of Celtic Cultural Alliance activities can provide sponsors with visibility, sales opportunities, media attention, hospitality and many other benefits. Based on the sponsor’s objectives and the flexibility created by Celtic Cultural Alliance, a sponsor can choose to create their own benefits package. The number of benefits and the scope of entitlements depends upon the support level of each sponsor and the availability of individual benefits.
For more information on sponsorship of Celtic Cultural Alliance or any of its activities please contact us.
Celtic Cultural Alliance
532 Main Street
Bethlehem, Pennsylvania 18018
Telephone 610.868.9599
FAX 610.868.9730
Email info@celticculturalalliance.org
Sponsorship
