Busto Feis — International Irish Dancing Competition

Busto Arsizio, capital of Irish dance

The Busto Feis is the international Irish dance competition held in Busto Arsizio, in the province of Varese, at the Museo del Tessile (Textile Museum). Organized by the Accademia Danze Irlandesi Gens d'Ys (Irish Dance Academy Gens d'Ys), founded by Umberto Crespi, it has become one of the most prestigious events on the European Irish dance circuit, alongside competitions in Prague, Bratislava, and Munich.

An international competition

The 'feis' (a Gaelic word for an Irish dance and culture competition) attracts hundreds of dancers to Busto Arsizio from dozens of schools and many different countries, representing all of Europe and beyond. The competitions, divided by categories and levels, are judged by certified international ADCRG judges and include soft and hard shoe dance events, as well as special trophies inspired by Celtic and Breton mythology.

More than just a competition

Alongside the competition, the Busto Feis features a Celtic craft market, food stalls, and, at the end of the day, a dance evening open to the public — the 'Ceili Night' — with live Irish and Breton music. The event is held under the patronage of the Irish Embassy and with the support of the Lombardy Region and the Municipality of Busto Arsizio.

Tradition and spectacle

The Busto Feis is both a high-level sporting competition and a grand celebration of Celtic culture, capable of bringing a piece of Irish tradition to this Lombard city and attracting enthusiasts, families, and curious visitors from all over the province of Varese.