An estimated 60,000 people are expected to join golfer Tiger Woods, pop group Westlife and a host of Hollywood actors in County Limerick next week for the 2010 Adare Village Festival, details of which were announced today.

‘Ireland’s prettiest village’ will host the fourth annual festival of culture and heritage from July 2-5.

Featured events include the star-studded JP McManus Pro Am Golf Tournament at Adare Manor Hotel & Golf Resort, the Adare Village Festival Raceday at Limerick Racecourse, live music, local and national art exhibitions, food and craft markets, street entertainment, and history and heritage tours.

Festival co-ordinator and Chairperson of the Adare Business Association, David Fitzgerald described next week’s festival as a relaxing and family-friendly event.

He explained: “Next week’s festival will provide a timely economic boost to Adare as well as help promote the village as an attractive visitor destination for the growing domestic tourist market.”

“Festival goers will be able to rub shoulders with celebrities from the world of sport and showbiz as they enjoy an eclectic mix of entertainment that reflects Adare’s rich and varied culture and history.  The involvement of so many musicians, artists, literary figures and members of the local community will no doubt contribute greatly to the diverse programme of events”.

“I would like to thank the many individuals and organisations in Adare and throughout the region who have helped organise this year’s festival which no doubt prove to be hugely enjoyable”, Mr. Fitzgerald concluded.

Attractions include street entertainment and other nightly gigs and sessions in venues around Adare, a local Irish food and craft showcase, historical and heritage exhibitions and workshops, family fun day and barbeque, family street theatre, storytelling, and guided tours of Adare’s many heritage attractions.

The Festival Programme also includes and a sale of antique, vintage and contemporary jewellery.  Meanwhile, an open deck double-decker bus will operate around the village, which is located 15 minutes from Limerick City.

The Adare Village Festival 2010 is organised by the Adare Festival Committee, comprising local business and community representatives. 

The annual event is sponsored by Allied Irish Bank (AIB), the Association of Irish Festival Events (AOIFE), Shannon Development, Limerick County Council and Fáilte Ireland.