During September the seaside town of St Ives in Cornwall, England is home to the St Ives September Festival, one of the longest running festivals of the arts in the United Kingdom. The festival has been going on for over 30 years and runs for 15 days (the 2010 festival runs from Sept 11-25). It features a wonderful eclectic mix of music, film, poetry, talks, exhibitions and much more. Started in 1978 by local entrepreneurs and the nearby International Musicians Seminar, the festival has grown to attract thousands of visitors from around the world.
During the festival, local artists in the town to open their studios and allow visitors to see how their art is created. With the festival featuring a ton of live music from a range of styles there is bound to be something to interest your ears. The St Ives September Festival features over six different venues, both large and small. Nearly every night you can stroll into one of the many pubs in the town to enjoy even more live music. Visitors can also partake in a variety of hands-on workshops in different media including both visual arts and writing. There are even activities for children that will both entertain and educate. Tickets for workshops are available at the St Ives Library where the workshops take place.
For those interested in film and theater there is also plenty to do during the two weeks. The St Ives September Festival features three different film venues each featuring its own unique program for the duration. The 2010 St Ives September Festival featured classic animated films, Hairspray as well as mainstream movies. The festival also features a lineup of live theater and comedy programs featuring both local and world renowned actors and comedians. Don’t miss the poetry and music that takes place in the town square. There are many other events to partake in and enjoy during the festival like pub quizzes, street entertainment, storytelling and so much more. The St Ives September Festival is truly a great way to immerse yourself into the wonderful world of the arts. Learn more about the festival at the official website.
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