The Decades Festival of Cork, Ireland
Every August, the city of Cork transforms into a location filled with the cultures of the past. This city is already famous for its many great festivals, and the Decades Festival is another unique one that nearly everyone can enjoy. Though it was only begun just a few short years ago, it’s already catching on and is likely to continue to entertain both the locals and visitors to Cork for many decades to come.
During the Decades Festival, venues all over the city transform into places from the past. Dozens of pubs participate in the event, each picking a different theme and attempting to change their place of business into a representation of the era they choose. From the roaring 20s to the war-era 1940s to the 70s disco scene and even the age of punk rock, whatever you can think of from the last 100 years is likely there somewhere.
As part of the transformation, the pubs alter their interiors, putting up decorations and even having their staff dress in period costumes. Music, drinks, food and entertainment are just a few elements that one might expect to find out of our current time. Each venue also encourages their customers to arrive in costume to complete the picture and help to create an environment that all who attend can enjoy.
Best of all, there are no charges involved in Decades other than what one normally might incur from drinks, food and covers. This is, essentially, one big costume party that’s been broken into many disparate parts. And to make things even better, the legal limitations governing when bars must close are lengthened a bit, so the party can keep going.
So if you happen to be visiting Ireland during this time, definitely take a stop through Cork. Make sure to bring a costume or two though, so you don’t end up looking like a time-tourist.