Dublin, Ohio Irish Festival Promises Great Music, Entertainment

Don't have the time or money to take a vacation to the United Kingdom this summer? The Dublin Irish Festival in Dublin, Ohio is the next best thing. The 20th Annual event will take place August 3-5, 2007.

While the festival has lots to offer, the best entertainment is definitely the music. Event organizers bring in all types of bands - from traditional Celtic to punk rock to bagpipers. Sometimes the toughest choice is which band to listen to while you sip on an Irish beer. Crowd favorites Prodigals, Knot Fibb'n, and the Columbus Police and Fire Pipe and Drum Band are scheduled to appear again this year.

Fan of Irish dancing? The Annual Columbus Fies adult competition kicks off the event Friday evening and numerous dance troupes will be performing throughout the weekend in the Dance Tent.

There is also plenty of interactive fun, too. The Cultural Workshop Tent has varying activities to learn, such as Celtic stone carving, knot work, knitting, and cooking. Learn how to play the tin whistle or the fiddle. If you are of Irish descent, learn how to research your heritage with the help of various genealogical resources. Dog lovers can't resist checking out the Celtic canines, which include terrier breeds, wolfhounds and the Irish setter. History buffs need to stop by the reenactment of a 10^th century Irish settlement to find out about the weapons, trades, religion, and homemaking during this time period.

Don't forget to bring your wallet - the marketplace has Irish gifts, jewelry, arts and crafts, home decor, CDs from many of the performers, and clothing. Should you get inspired to visit Ireland in person, there are also travel agents on site to provide information about upcoming tours.

When you need to refresh, there are plenty of food and beverage vendors, both Irish fare, such as fish and chips, and the expected fried festival foods, like funnel cakes. There are also imported beers and American brews available.

Festival hours are Friday August 3: 4pm to Midnight; Saturday August 4: 11 am to Midnight and Sunday August 5: 11am to 9pm. General admission can be purchased for a discount online at dublinirishfestival.org ($8 or $9 depending on purchase date) or at the gate ($10).

Insider tip: Arrive Sunday morning between 10 am and 11 am and admission is free in order to allow for visitors to attend on site worship services.