On March 12th and 13th, the University of Limerick came alive with vibrant celebrations as students and staff gathered for the UL Global Spring Festival 2025. This annual event showcased the rich cultural diversity within the UL community through food, language, literature, music, and joyous multicultural festivities.
Wednesday, March 12th
Breads of the World
The festival kicked off in the Pavilion Restaurant with "Breads of the World," a culinary tour that brought together over 100 students to taste a wide array of breads from different cultures. This event was more than just a food tasting, it was a delicious journey across continents, offering students the chance to learn about the significance of bread in various traditions while engaging in cross-cultural conversations.
Irish Language and Dance Workshop
Later in the afternoon, Cumann Gaelach OL hosted an engaging Irish language and dance workshop. Students were introduced to the Irish language, practicing a cúpla focal (a few words), and then stepped onto the dance floor to learn traditional Irish dances. The energy was high, the enthusiasm contagious, and the event ended on a high note with a lively dance-off to "An Dreoilín." The joy and laughter shared by all made this workshop a highlight of the day.
Thursday, March 13th
Literature of the World
In collaboration with UL Global, the Glucksman Library, MLAL, and Aonad na Gaeilge, the festival continued with "Literature of the World" in the Popular Reading Room of the Glucksman Library. This gathering provided an intimate space for students and staff to share their passion for literature, exploring cultures through poetry, prose, and song linking in with Seachtain na Gaeilge. It was a meaningful exchange of stories and perspectives, reinforcing the power of literature in bridging cultures.
Internationalisation at Lunchtime Seminar
A thought-provoking seminar on international education was hosted by Dr. Niall Keegan, Course Director of the BA in Irish Music and Dance, and James Sergeant, Partnerships Officer at UL Global. The discussion focused on the development of 2+2 pathways, using the new "Bachelor of Arts, International Advanced Access" programme as an example. This session shed light on how international partnerships enhance global learning experiences and opportunities for students and faculties.
UL Global Concert
Theatre 1 at the Irish World Academy transformed into a global stage at 1:15 pm for the UL Global Concert. Students from around the world showcased their music and dance talents, with performances ranging from Ghanaian rhythms and Balkan melodies to Chinese and Iranian tunes. The audience were also taught a Ghanaian lullaby singing as a choir, and Irish traditional music and dance. A special highlight was the large ensemble of BA World Music students, whose passion and talent truly celebrated UL’s diverse cultural landscape.
Holi Celebration: A Riot of Colours and Joy
The festival concluded with a spectacular Holi celebration outside the CSIS building at 4:30 pm. Students and staff, joined by members of Regeneron Limerick, gathered to throw vibrant coloured powders in the air, symbolising unity, happiness, and the arrival of spring. The atmosphere was electric, filled with laughter, music, and the pure joy of togetherness.
A Festival to Remember
UL Global Spring Festival 2025 was a testament to the university’s commitment to cultural exchange and inclusivity. From food and literature to music and dance, every event brought people together, fostering connections and celebrating diversity. As the festival came to an end, participants left with new friendships, enriched experiences, and a deeper appreciation for the global community here at UL.
Here’s to another fantastic celebration next year!