Tucson Celtic Festival Association (TCFA) of Tucson has been awarded a $5000 grant from the Arizona Commission on the Arts, an agency of the State of Arizona. The grant was one of 369 grants awarded this year to nonprofit arts organizations, arts festivals, and arts learning programs throughout the state, representing a total investment of $2,403,110.

“We are absolutely thrilled to receive this grant from the Arizona Commission on the Arts,” said Allison Stoner, TCFA Secretary and Clans Chair. “This funding represents more than financial support – it’s a validation of our 39-year mission to preserve and celebrate Celtic heritage within our community. At a time when cultural festivals across the nation are struggling to survive, this grant ensures that the Tucson Celtic Festival will continue to serve as a vital gathering place for those passionate about Celtic traditions.”

The grant will support the Tucson Celtic Festival Association (TCFA) in its mission over the coming year. TCFA is dedicated to preserving and celebrating the rich customs and cultures of the Celtic peoples through engaging educational programs and cultural events. This includes the production of the 39th Annual Tucson Celtic Festival and Scottish Highland Games — a premier event showcasing international Highland Games competitions, Highland Dance, and traditional Celtic music and arts. In addition to the festival, TCFA hosts community-centered celebrations throughout the year, including St. Patrick’s Day and Tartan Day, all aimed at fostering cultural pride, community connection, and athletic excellence.

“Through the Arizona Commission on the Arts, the State of Arizona endeavors to ensure that all Arizonans can participate in and experience the arts,” said Christina You-sun Park, Executive Director of the Arizona Commission on the Arts “Through these grants the Arts Commission partners with organizations across the state that are dedicated to serving their communities through the arts.”

In accordance with the Arts Commission’s strategic plan and governing statutes, schools and nonprofit arts organizations are awarded grants based on such factors as quality of programming, public benefit, and responsible stewardship of public funds.

Grant applications are reviewed within rigorous panel processes which are open to applicants as well as the broader public. Review panels are led by Governor-appointed Commissioners and are composed of diverse community leaders, volunteer experts, educators and arts practitioners from rural, urban and suburban areas
throughout Arizona.