Since 1954, Joyce fans have come to Dublin every 16 June to trace the story of their hero. With Leopold Bloom they stroll from Glasnevin Cemetery to the public baths, they go to the pub for a pint of beer and make a trip to the offices of the newspaper.
Some re-enact scenes from the book, others start their pilgrimage where the story begins, at the Martello Tower in Sandycove, one of a number of defensive buildings built around the Irish coast to withstand a Napoleonic invasion. The tower now houses the James Joyce Museum, including a collection of rare editions, letters, photographs and assorted Joyce memorabilia.
And normally, Dublin would be dressed for the occasion, with the men wearing bowler hats and cycle-clips, and the ladies in brocade shawls and fine bonnets.
This year’s Bloomsday Festival is going to be digital and hugely different, but it will not lose any of its fun, inspiration and excitement.
The James Joyce Centre’s festival programme will offer an inspiring online trail of discovery across Joyce’s Dublin and the places immortalised in Ulysses.
#Bloomsday2020 Readings and Songs will take place on Youtube Live on the James Joyce Centre channel on 16 June and will include readings, lectures, children’s activity books, maps, Joyce on film, recipes, fashion tips, poetry, theatre, music and more.
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