One of many highlights during Dublin Irish Festival is the array of cultural activities. Four stages allow attendees to step back in time, explore their heritage, and learn new skills. This year’s celebration features new and returning experiences.

At the Irish Traditions Tent, visitors can discover Irish history and uncover their genealogy with the help of noted researcher Dwight Radford, Irish Roots Café host Michael O’Laughlin, and representatives from the Franklin County Genealogical and Historical Society. Many of the works from the American Celtic Art Exhibition (new this year!) can also be found here.

Irish wake demonstration

The Cultural Workshop Area holds some of the Festival’s favorite activities. Here, attendees can experience a traditional Irish Wake complete with authentic representations of mourners and the deceased. Also in this area, Tim and Kathleen Nealeigh will demonstrate how to produce Irish linen and wool. Finally, visitors can travel back in time to the medieval age when visiting Brian Boru’s Ireland.

Those feeling more melodic can check out the Music Workshop Tent where you can find Burke Whistles, Copley & Boegli Flutes, Dunham Harps, Gibson Bagpipes, Sweet Woods Instruments, and the W.A Petersen Shop. Also on hand is Michael Vignoles, maker of Irish Bodhran drums and Uilleann pipes. The Ward Irish Music Archives will present an exhibit highlighting “Irish in Film”, and musician Robert Mouland will present the “Legacy of the Irish Harp”.

Featuring the brand-new Irish Authors’ Corner, the Spoken Word Stage brings Irish lore and mythology to life. Authors will conduct live readings, participate in meet-and-greets with guests, and sign autographs. Books will be available on-site for purchase.

For more information on these and other activities, visit the Dublin Irish Festival website: www.dublinirishfestival.org.

Announcement: Want another chance to win a two-pack of tickets to the Dublin Irish Festival? Leave us a comment describing DIF in one word by 9 a.m. tomorrow! The winner will be announced in tomorrow’s blog at 10 a.m.!

~ Post by Dawn