Travel around the world in 80 steps

A FREE Festival in Smithfield later this month will offer visitors a chance to travel the world in just 80 steps.

That’s because the BlueFire Street Fest on Saturday, September 20, at Smithfield Square features a diverse line up of artists, musicians and street performers from every corner of the globe.

Described as an

“Aladdin’s cave of cultural delights

? the family-friendly festival kicks-off at midday and the action is centred around Smithfield Square.

Organising group BlueFire Dublin is a non-profit social enterprise that aims to facilitate social and intercultural integration through music and the arts and CEO Keren Jackson says the festival is shaping up to be a great event.

“We’ve teamed up with local cultural organisations and businesses to bring together a fantastic intercultural festival in the historic heart of Dublin,

? she adds.

“It’ll be a great day out for culture vultures, families, music lovers and festival goers!

?

The main stage line-up for the festival features some of Dublin’s most acclaimed world-music bands including Temple Bar’s beloved Irish/Polish band, Mutefish and the Dublin Afrobeat Ensemble, a 14 strong outer-national group of Afrobeat exponents from the four corners of the world.

Tig Linn, the band that performed in front of Obama during his visit to Ireland, North Strand Kontra Band, Justine Nantale and Markas Carcas are also playing on the day.

“We’re bringing something different to the Dublin festival scene,

? Jackson promises.

“As well as great music, street performers and artistic workshops, we’ve got some unusual events in the programme.

?

One of those

‘unusual’ events will be the Community Foundation for Ireland’s

‘VitalTalks’. Based on the widely popular

‘TedTalks’, the event provides a platform for 18 – 25-year-olds to share their experiences of life as a young person today.

Visitors to the festival can also brush up on their language skills or try a new language with informal language exchanges.

Dublin Community Circus will be providing workshops on the day and there’ll be a chance to have a go at African dancing, drumming or even making your own dreadlocks.

The festival features a craft and food market and lots to keep younger festival-goers entertained. The fun starts at midday and continues on until 10pm.