The jig is not yet up

 The yearly Northeastern Celtic Faire and Games, on the weekend of the third Saturday in September, attracts people from all over.

 At least 700 people had turned out by midday Saturday for the Celtic heritage, history, sporting and entertainment events at the Brown County Fairgrounds in Aberdeen.

 The fair continues through today with performances by dancers and bands, workshops on Medieval sword techniques and genealogy, livestock exhibits, and battles by the Knights of the Steel Wall.

 So much to do

  Cheryl Gabriel of Aberdeen was chief among the Celtic Faire's planners and organizers this year. On Saturday, she worked the fair's entrance to greet people as they came in.

 "Even though it's not the best weather today, people seem to be trickling in," Gabriel said under gray skies and blustery conditions. But the turnout overall has been good, she said.

 "There are so many activities here today — I think that's why people keep coming in," she said.

"We have classic cars, games, great vendors and entertainment. I've seen license plates from all over, including Minnesota and Wisconsin."

 Today's events will be more hands-on, Gabriel said, with the athletes who assist children in playing the games.

 Dance

  Robin O’Neill helped to organize dance performances at the Celtic Faire. O'Neill is a dance instructor at the Aberdeen Area Recreation Center.

 "Dance is an incredible way to express yourself, so I think it brings a lot to the fair," she said.

 It's also a great way to exercise, said O'Neill, who participated in performances Saturday.

 "I don't think we had as many people as last year," she said. Organizers expect at least 1,500 to attend this year's events, O'Neill said.

 "On Sunday, we have a full round of entertainment, including kids versions and workshops so we want more people come out," she said.

 Accidental tourist

  Four years ago, Connie Goetz of Bowdle came to the Celtic Faire just to see what was going on.

 "The first time was an accident, but I loved it and I've been coming ever since," she said.

 Goetz and her family come to Aberdeen to camp out while attending the fair, but didn't this year because of weather.

 "There is so much at the Celtic Faire that you don't see anywhere else," she said.