Switchback’s Celtic Christmas @ Chalfonte Theatre

The holiday season begins in Elk Rapids with an unforgettable night of music, storytelling, and tradition with Switchback on The Platform at the Chalfonte Theatre for a beloved holiday concert: Switchback’s Celtic Christmas, on Thursday, November 20, 2025. Doors open at 6:00 p.m., and the show begins promptly at 7:00 p.m., featuring two 45-minute sets with a 10-minute intermission.

Led by Brian FitzGerald and Martin McCormack, Switchback has spent decades delighting audiences around the world with their unique fusion of Celtic, bluegrass, and Americana music. The duo’s “Celtic Christmas” show offers a rich blend of traditional Irish melodies, festive holiday classics, and original songs from their celebrated catalog of over 300 compositions—described by Performing Songwriter Magazine as “breathtaking scenery for your ears.”

Audiences can expect heartwarming harmonies, expert musicianship, and charming storytelling rooted in the band’s Irish-American heritage. Switchback is one of the last groups personally mentored by Irish concertina master Terrence ‘Cuz’ Teahan, a County Kerry legend. That rare mentorship informs their style, sound, and deep respect for tradition.

This year’s concert is made possible through the exclusive sponsorship of Blarney Castle Oil & Propane and its family of EZ Mart Stores. Thanks to their generous support, the artists are fully compensated and all proceeds from the concert will directly benefit three cornerstone programs of the Chalfonte Theatre; Elk Rapids Cinema, The Platform, and Village Radio. Blarney Castle’s ongoing commitment to community and culture helps bring the arts to Northern Michigan and makes events like this possible for all to enjoy.

Their Elk Rapids performance is a signature event appearing for the first time on The Platform at the Chalfonte Theatre—a live performance series curated by the nonprofit Chalfonte Foundation, which aims to bring exceptional arts and culture programming to Northern Michigan.

🎟️ TICKETS

• $20 in advance at the Elk Rapids Cinema box office or online [here].

• $25 at the door (if available)

Don’t miss this opportunity to experience Switchback’s Celtic Christmas—a heartwarming evening of music and holiday spirit that has become a cherished local tradition.