WREXHAM Arts Festival kicks off this weekend,and organisers say culture vultures will find plenty to do in the next few weeks.

The festival, which runs from May 1 until June 5, is themed Wrexham and Europe which was chosen to reflect the 40th anniversary of Wrexham’s twinning with Markischer Kreis in Germany.

Music plays a big part in the festival programme and genres range from German rock to a Polish singer-songwriter.

Literature and travel fans calling at Wrexham Library on Wednesdays May 5 and 12 can travel around Europe without leaving their seat.

On May 5 award-winning travel writer Rosalie Marsh tells of her adventures across Europe on a motorbike, while the following week Bethan Gwanas recounts her journeys through Europe and beyond.

Both events start at 7pm, with tickets, priced at £4, available from Oriel Wrecsam.

Other highlights include a special one-off show from dancers Company Decalage.

Their fusion of hip-hop, contemporary dance and improvisation, together with live music performances, has seen them sell out venues across Europe.

They bring their show to Wrexham with a performance at the Yale College Studio Theatre at 7.30pm on Tuesday, May 25.

Tickets, priced at £5 and £4 concessions, are available from Wrexham Tourist Information Centre or by calling 01978 292015.

Two visual arts events will run throughout the festival.

Universal Unique at Oriel Wrecsam examines the area’s relationship with Europe through a series of head and shoulder images

The second exhibition will tour Wrexham throughout the festival.

It is called Sacred Spaces and will, through a series of photographs by German photographer Fred Hageneder, show the diversity of wildlife and history that can be found in the churchyards of rural Wrexham and Germany.

Cllr Bob Dutton, lead member for communities and performance, said: “Wrexham Arts Festival 2010 is shaping up to be one of the best ever.

“With the Europe and Wrexham theme we will be showcasing the best in the local, national and European arts scene.

“This festival truly has something for everyone.”

Copies of the festival brochure are available at all libraries, tourist information centres, leisure centres and council receptions throughout Wrexham.