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The Irish American Festival Kicks Off Cities Summer Multi-Cultural Series

By Mike Dougherty

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- The Irish American Festival at Penn's Landing on Sunday marked the start of the summer-long PECO multi-cultural series on the waterfront.

The event played Irish music as people did Irish dances. The day was all about a celebration of the Emerald Isle. Michael Bradley, an event organizer praised the event and the city of Philadelphia for holding the festival.

"It's a great day to be out with your family, really," said Bradley. "It's beautiful down here on the water front. The city has done a great job and the people that work here are wonderful to work with."

Lisa from Abington was enjoying the festival with her daughter.

"I decided to stay home from the shore because my girlfriend is here, Joanne, and she wanted to come down here," said Lisa. "I figured well my daughter is Irish, so I brought her down to get a little taste of her culture."

The Irish festival is the opening leg of the PECO Multicultural series. Next up is the Islamic Heritage Festival Saturday June 13th.

Full list of events below:

Finns and Swedes in America Since 1638 on Saturday, June 15, 2013, 12 – 6 pm -- Finns and Swedes in America Since 1638 Festival will feature Finnish and Swedish music, culture, food, and family fun.

Portuguese Festival on Sunday, June 16, 2015 1-7 pm -- Escape to Europe without leaving Philadelphia. Experience Portuguese customs and culture through traditional music, folklore, and food.

Hispanic Fiesta Saturday and Sunday, July 13 through the 14th, 2 – 8 pm -- The Hispanic Fiesta at Penn's Landing is Philadelphia's premier Latino event, and it continues to unite and raise awareness of Latino culture and community.

ACANA Festival Saturday, August 3, 2 – 8 pm -- The African Cultural Alliance of North America Inc. (ACANA) is proud to host the 6th Annual African Festival.

Southeast Asian Dragon Boat Festival Saturday and Sunday, June 13 – June 14, 2 – 8 pm --The Southeast Dragon Boat Festival features an understanding and appreciation of the rich cultural heritage of the people of Southeast Asia.

Festival of India Saturday, August 17, 1 – 7 pm -- The Council of Indian Organizations (CIO) of Greater Philadelphia presents a Festival of India each year in August at Penn's Landing.

Caribbean Festival Sunday, August 18, 12 – 8 pm -- Come celebrate culture, music, and food from 14 Caribbean islands with wholesome family fun.

Mexican Independence Day Festival Sunday, September 15, 1 – 7 pm -- Celebrate Mexican Independence with music, food, dancing, and more. There will be a little something for everyone: arts and crafts, Mexican rock bands, face painting, and giveaways.

 

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