Thousands of people came together at 17.59 last night, Thursday, 23rd September to raise a toast to Arthur Guinness, the pioneering brewer and philanthropist who introduced Guinness to the world.
Arthur’s Day is a fitting tribute to Arthur Guinness and his legacy, with all ticket proceeds from the day going directly to the Arthur Guinness Fund. The Arthur Guinness Fund has already distributed €1 million to Irish Social Entrepreneurs who are making a positive and sustainable impact on Irish communities.
Over 1,500 planned events took place across the island of Ireland today, with over 150 confirmed artists and 200 hours of live music performances.
Speaking at Arthur’s Day, Tanya Clarke, Head of Guinness said, “Arthur’s Day is all about celebrating the legacy of Arthur Guinness and the iconic brand he created, with all ticket proceeds benefiting the Arthur Guinness Fund. Thousands of events are taking place all around the country today as a fitting tribute to Arthur Guinness. The mix of international acts and emerging Irish talent is incredible and some lucky people even get to enjoy international artists perform in the intimate surrounding of a pub, which has certainly added to the sense of excitement”.
(See below for list of studio artists who made surprise pub performances)
Brandon Flowers performed in Whelan’s Bar, Dublin
Manic Street Preachers performed in Sinnot’s, Dublin
Cathy Davy performed in the Stag’s Head, Dublin
Imelda May led the toast to Arthur at 17:59 in Galway
David Gray performed in Roisin Dubhs, Galway
Speaking at the Arthur’s Day celebration, Westlife said, “Arthur’s Day is the first time we have performed in a pub. It has been incredible, we are so excited to be involved. Here’s to Arthur and a brilliant day!”.
Snow Patrol added, “We’re really excited to be involved with Arthur’s Day this year. It’s great that our fans get to enjoy us up close. It’s also really great that some of Irelands best up and coming acts get a chance to join in.”.
The official Arthur’s Day iPhone app provided people with an opportunity to come together at 17.59 to share in the celebration. Within 72 hours after launch, it had gone to number one in the Apple App Store. It offered information on events taking place throughout the country and allowed users to share toasts with friends and on live TV and also track where their friends were toasting on the night via a geo locater and a Facebook link up.
Arthur’s Day is also being celebrated in other countries with live music events taking place in the USA, the Caribbean and Asia, as well as other countries all across the world.
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