The Second Maryland Fifes and Drums have been playing mid-19th Century Martial Music for 40 years. They have performed in Paris, Canada, Estes Park, Colorado, and various National Military Park sites throughout the United States. They will be joined at the festival by the 69th New York (aka "the Fighting 69th"). The 69th was one of the original regiments of Francis Meaher's famous Irish Brigade.

Fifes and Drums regulated the Civil War soldier's daily routine as well as serving to entertain, inspire and motivate troops in the field. Many of the tunes are Celtic in origin, as well as popular folk tunes of the mid19th Century.

The 69th New York State Volunteers Historical Association is a non-profit living history organization founded in 1984 for the purpose of accurately portraying the life of the Irish soldier in the Union Army to the general public. We are a family-friendly unit that emphasizes historical research and authenticity, safety, battalion drill and battlefield tactics. At present we have over 60 members from New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Connecticut, Ohio and other locations worldwide. Members dress in historically accurate uniforms and equipment of the 69th NYSV with an emphasis on the regiment as it appeared in 1862, carry reproduction weapons, and camp in period tents or campaign style. We meet regularly for battle reenactments, parades, and living history events throughout the year.

Unit socials are regularly scheduled, and members are encouraged to bring their families to all of these events in authentic period dress and reenact under the name of the 69th NYSV Historical Association. The unit has a strong component of reenactors in the ranks, both military and civilian, all of whom are ready and willing to assist new recruits learn the finer points of 19th century life.