The organisers of Dublin's 2011 St Patrick's Festival today announced the return of the festival céilí as part of next week's celebrations.
The céilí, which takes place in St Stephen's Green from 4.30 to 7.30pm next Wednesday, is one of the first events on this year's festival schedule.Admittance will be free of charge.
Riverdance star Dearbhla Lennon is set to be joined by a host of professional dancers and instructors helping to teach the public some of the classic sets such as the Siege of Ennis and the Walls of Limerick.
"The dances are great fun to learn and suitable for all ages and abilities," said Ms Lennon.
Organisers have welcomed all members of the public, regardless of dancing ability or knowledge to attend what they say will be an informal and fun way to learn traditional Irish dances.
"The céilí is a fantastic way to immerse yourself in Irish culture and learn about our traditional dances. The performers will cover all the old favourites" said festival chief executive Susan Kirby.
Ireland's national folk theatre and arts centre, Siamsa Tíre will be providing dancers and musicians on the day for the céilí. Other performers will include traditional singer Jerry O'Reilly, award winning fiddle and concertina player Niamh Ní Charra and dancers from the Brookes Academy.
Other than the céilí, the general theme of the festival will be to highlight Ireland's literary ties. The organisers said they hope to reflect the City of Literature title bestowed on Dublin by Unesco last year.
New this year to festivities is DublinSwell on March 18th, an event which will bringing together various star Irish names in literature, music, film and theatre under one roof.
The Big Day Out on March 20th also returns, following a huge attendance last year.
Three times world boxing champion and Olympic medal hopeful Katie Taylor will be the grand marshal of the Dublin St Patrick’s Day Parade.
Research carried out last year showed that the St Patrick’s Festival provides an estimated return of €50.5 million to the economy.
The St Patrick’s Festival takes place from Wednesday, March 16th, to Sunday, March 20th, with the parade taking place as usual on St Patrick’s Day. Details of further St Patrick's Festival events can be found at stpatricksfestival.ie