The unique culture, character and heritage of Dublin’s oldest quarter will be celebrated in this year’s festival, which opens on Wednesday, 18th July.

The five-day programme of events has something for all ages and also includes old favourites such as the Blue Rinse Ball, the ‘Street Traders V’s Garda Football Match’ and the 10th annual Liberties Fun Run.

Established in 1970, the festival is organised by South Inner City Community Development Association (SICCDA) and is now in its 48th year.

Commenting, Denis Murphy, Festival Lead for the SICCDA board said: “Dublin 8 is renowned for its community, character and spirit.

"We are delighted to unveil such a diverse programme of events for this year’s festival that epitomises these attributes.

"This is a community festival, with the community at its heart and we invite everyone from the Dublin 8 area and beyond to check out this year’s events.”

Murphy added: “This historic area of Dublin will come alive in celebration over the five days, with events taking place in the streets, parks, cafes, pubs, churches and public buildings of the area.

"It’s a fantastic opportunity to showcase all this colourful and dynamic district has to offer, while at the same time recognising its rich past.”

Enjoying The Liberties Festival this week? There's even more to discover in Dublin's thriving Liberties. #LoveTheLiberties pic.twitter.com/u5JUTm5YMS

— The Liberties Dublin (@libertiesdublin) July 21, 2017

More than 20 events will be held in venues across the Liberties between Wednesday, 18th July and Sunday, 22nd July. These include:
· The Festival Launch in the Digital Hub at 6.30pm on Wednesday, 18th July, headlined by Delorentos.
· Outdoor Cinema screening of the classic Dublin film ‘Sing Street’ in Saint Patrick’s Park on at 9.30pm on Thursday, 19th July.
· Opera in the Open - a mixed programme of operatic favourites at St Audeon’s Church from 7pm to 8.30pm on Friday, 20th July.
· Stories for Breakfast at Tasty8 on Meath Street from 9am on Saturday, 21st July, where attendees will be asked to use their stories as currency.
· The Liberties Trail offers a day of workshops happening across the area on Saturday, 21st July, including yoga, music production and community gardening. These are discoverable via the Liberties Trail map which is available to view here.
· Free Family Fun Day with an exciting array of fun and frolics in Saint Patricks Park on Sunday, 22nd July from 12pm to 4pm.

Speaking at today’s programme launch, Josie Sheehan, long-term Liberties resident said: “I have witnessed lots of change in the Liberties over the years, but its community spirit remains strong.

"The inclusion of local community groups and businesses in the programme of events ensures that this is truly a community festival, which will also appeal to a wider audience of all ages.

"I am very proud to be from the Liberties, and to be involved in the Liberties Festival, which continues to showcase what a fantastic and welcoming place Dublin 8 is.”

Information on tickets and pricing, along with the full festival programme can be found on www.libertiesfestival2018.com. Follow the festival on Facebook and Instagram.

From modest beginnings in 1970, The Liberties Festival has grown to become a highlight of the summer in Dublin 8, with a series of family-friendly, sporting and community events, and an exciting cultural and arts programme encompassing visual art, film, dance, comedy, literature and music.

The Liberties Festival is supported by Dublin City Council, Diageo, Creedon Group, Donore Avenue Credit Union and the Digital Hub.