... that has grown from small acorns into the oak it is today - branching into every area of the arts to bring outstanding productions from both Ireland and abroad to every corner of the county. That fact marks it out as unique - the only festival in these islands and possibly anywhere that embraces communities both rural and urban over an entire county. A total of nineteen different locations throughout Donegal will host an extensive line-up of musical shows, dramas, workshops, films, puppet shows, exhibitions and extravagant outdoor events the like of which will be unrivalled anywhere on the island.Here is a festival that attracts the best in international acts - a festival that doesn't forget its roots but continues to lure globally acclaimed performers to the North-West. The 2005 event is no exception. They hail from all parts of the globe - from Brazil, South Africa, Russia, the U.S.A., France, Holland, England and Scotland to bring a flavour of their art to the festival.And the Earagail festival is well represented by acts both locally and nationally to add to the multi-cultural mix.The organising committee spared no effort to produce a programme that, quite literally, has something for everyone, young, old, and the not-so-sures.To pack such an array of talent into two weeks is an achievement in itself but the organisers have somehow managed it.What they require now is the support of all the communities involved to make it worthwhile. That includes not just the free events - of which there are quite a few - but the shows and concerts that charge a fee. This financial support provides the lifeblood of the Earagail Arts Festival and ensures continued high level participation from home and abroad.Give it that backing and make sure that the North-West can continue to rival its Galway counterpart as the foremost festival of its kind in the country.