Dublin Irish Festival

The Dublin Irish Festival,

is an annual music and cultural festival held in Dublin, Ohio. It takes place during the first weekend of August, and it attracts an over 93,000 visitors to eight entertainment stages on 27 acres (110,000 m2) in and beyond Coffman Park.Activities include Irish and other Celtic music, genealogy, food and drink, dance, cultural exhibits, games, sports, arts and crafts, and children's activities.

The event, produced and supported by the City of Dublin, is one of America's largest Irish festivals. The Columbus Feis, an internationally renowned Irish dance competition, occurs every year at the same time as the Irish Festival. The 2009 Dublin Irish Festival takes place July 31 to August 2. Several of the main attractions play at the multiple stages located throughout the festival including the Celtic Music House, Scotts Miracle-Gro Dublin Stage, the Wendys Wee Folk Stage and the IGS Energy Ceili Dance tent.

History

The festival began in 1988 with a handful of dancers and musicians on a tennis court. The 2007 Festival was recognized by the International Festivals and Events Association with the Silver Grand Pinnacle Award, recognizing top events in the world. It was also selected by the American Bus Association as one of the top 100 events for 2009.

(source:wikipedia)