The Birr Vintage Week and Arts Festival was awarded Flagship Festival status in Co. Offaly for The Gathering, the ongoing celebration of all things Irish which has been taking place throughout the year.

An inpouring of international visitors are expected to arrive in Birr to join the festivities and the town which is steeped in georgian heritage, is making last minute preparations ahead of their arrival at the weekend.

Those who arrive will experience the unique history of Birr while indulging in its contemporary culture through a range of vintage and modern events scheduled to take place during the week.

A number of these events have been specifically tailored with the overseas visitor in mind. The Craic agus Ceol Reunion will be hosted by The Birr Theatre and Arts Centre and each attendee will be awarded with a Commemorative Certificate of Attendance while one lucky individual will get to act as the Festival Parade Grand Marshal.

The Arts have played a central role in the festival for the past 44 years and this year will be no different. Up to a hundred local and visiting artists will get to showcase their work in the Visual Arts Trail, and adults and children alike will get to take part in artistic talks, master classes and art workshops throughout the week.

Theatre lovers will not be disappointed as they have Shakespeare's wonderful Much Ado about Nothing to look forward to. This will be set against the picturesque backdrop of Birr Castle and Les Miserables is sure to be a show stopper. With a cast of over 60 teenagers from several countries accompanied by a full professional orchestra, this is guaranteed to be a festival highlight.

The festival has something to offer everyone with sporting enthusiasts and music lovers also being well looked after. In terms of music, there is something to suit every taste with the programme of events ranging from classical to modern along with nightly entertainment taking place in the local pubs.

Festival Programmes are now available ahead of the weekend. For more information contact the Festival Information Line on 087 9226961, check out birrvintageweek.com or follow the festival on Facebook or @BirrVintageArts on Twitter.