There is no better way to celebrate the wonderful diversity of culture now in Ireland than with a three-day festival at the end of summer.

Now in its 7th year the Festival of World Cultures, a Dún Laoghaire Rathdown County Council event, carves a special groove on the global festival circuit and is Ireland%u2019s foremost intercultural event.

Three highlights of the many events in this year%u2019s Festival are Portuguese Fado singer Mariza, a Global Village Market featuring arts and crafts from across the planet and the International Costume Show, this year featuring wedding outfits from many cultures.

With more than 130 events in 40 venues and featuring artists from 50 countries the Festival entertains audiences in excess of 220,000 with its diverse and expanding programme of music, street theatre, dance, club nights, markets, exhibitions, talks, workshops and activities for children.

This year%u2019s 72-hour global feast also includes an environmental awareness fair, an international food market, unique workshops, free outdoor music concerts, family events and a host of late-night parties. The Festival is a unique chance to travel the globe without leaving the shores of Dun Laoghaire.