Eddie Lenihan.

Lenihan launches dunderry folk festival

Ireland's greatest storyteller, Eddie Lenihan, made a rare Dublin appearance at the weekend to launch Dublin's Spirit of Folk festival at Whelan’s in Dublin.

Eddie is an Irish author, storyteller, lecturer and broadcaster. He is one of the few practicing seanchaithe (traditional Irish lore-keepers and tale-spinners) remaining in Ireland. He is one of the most famous storytellers in Ireland, often credited for breathing new life into the tradition with his popular RTE show. He has a close relationship with the fairies, and tells many a tale about them, along with less favorable creatures like piseógs and ghosts. His stories certainly aren't for the faint hearted and will give those who are brave enough an insight into an Ireland that was filled with magic, mystery and mayhem.

The Spirit of Folk Festival, this year celebrating its fifth birthday has chosen a musical lineup that complements the different styles of music hosted at the festival. The lineup for the launch includes Elm, Inni-K and The Blood Red Mountain Band.

The festival will run from the 18th to 20th September at Dunderry Park, and will be headlined by Mick Flannery. Other artists include Moxie, Bunoscionn, Inni-k, Rhob Cunningham as well as activities such as living history, storytelling, archery, falconry and lots of kids' activities.

Weekend tickets cost €70 and day tickets cost €50 all including camping and campervans.  www.spiritoffolk.com/tickets