Following the success of the first global Twestival (Twitter + festival) on February 12th 2009, in which 202 cities participated, Twestival returns in September with a local twist on “Twestival” – the 100% volunteer-run, charity fundraising events for people who know each other through the micro-blogging service Twitter.

The first 24 hour “‘tweet-up’ with a social conscience” inspired thousands and raised $250,000 for charity: water, and Twestival Local looks to be even bigger. Volunteer teams in cities across the world have come together to survey their communities, nominate causes, plan events, gather sponsors and raise funds. A pooling of efforts, knowledge, contacts, time and skills is putting finishing touches to events from Buenos Aires and Santa Barbara to Bangalore to Birmingham.

Global organiser Amanda Rose said, “It is incredible to see how an idea to bring people offline to meet, combined with a cause has developed around the word so quickly. I have encouraged cities to find a local charity to support and establish fundraising goals directly related to a project so we can use social media to show people exactly where their money is going. More than ever, causes need our support and by tapping into our network online and off we’ve been able to offer a talent pool to help with websites, free consultancy and in most cases a little Twitter training.”

Global partners across all countries for Twestival are Amiando, Citrix Online, Blurb and Causecast. For the full list of cities, or to get your tickets go to Twestival.com.

Twestival Drill Day 4 – Well Complete from charity: water in Ethiopia