The Liberties Festival is one of Ireland’s oldest festivals. From modest beginnings in 1970, it has grown to become a highlight of the summer in Dublin. In 2011 it celebrates its 41st year with an extensive series of family-friendly, sporting and community events, and an exciting multi-cultural and arts programme encompassing visual art, film, dance, comedy, literature and music.

The area known as The Liberties is the south-west part of Dublin’s inner city approximately west of Aungier Street and south of the River Liffey, predominately in Dublin 8. Steeped in history, its name originated with the arrival in the 12th century of the Anglo-Normans who titled jurisdictions united to the city but outside the boundaries of its walls as ‘Liberties’. Two of the most important were the Liberty of St. Sepulchre (under the Archbishop of Dublin) and the Liberty of Thomas Court and Donore (under the Abbey of St. Thomas, later the Earl of Meath’s Liberty). For supporting the ruler, these Liberties received privileges such as freedom from various taxes. Today’s Liberties area is made up of these two ancient Liberties.

We’re busy finalising the Liberties Festival 2012 programme and will announce full details shortly.

Meanwhile, here’s some information about four of the events that already have people talking!

Poems of the People – we want you to help us create a poetic picture of Ireland. Send us your poem. Read about this innovative public participation poetry project here.

Festival Commission – Maser’s portrait of Anne Devlin which will reflect important local history and enrich our street scape. Read more about it here.

Festival Commission – Taking Liberties, a series of stunning images of the people and places of the Liberties by photographer Shane McCarthy. Read more here.

Nighthawks at the Guinness Storehouse – Featuring nine top bands, comedians and writers: Vyvienne Long, Kevin Barry, Jarlath Regan, Fiach, Little Xs For Eyes, Pearse McGloughlin, Willie White, Colm Keegan and Ellie McMahon. Last year, tickets to Nighthawks at the Guinness Storehouse sold out in advance so don’t miss out in 2012! Click here for details.

Check out the video from the 2011 Liberties Festival!