Ireland has a long-standing reputation for hosting some of the biggest and best music festivals in the world. With stunning natural landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and a vibrant and creative energy, Ireland attracts a diverse range of international artists and bands. This guide will provide you with all the information you need to plan your summer of music in Ireland, including key dates, venues, and lineups for the most popular festivals.
The Rise of Music Festivals in Ireland
In recent years, music festivals in Ireland have become increasingly popular. The country has a reputation for hosting some of the most unique and eclectic festivals in the world, attracting a diverse range of international artists and bands. The rise of music festivals in Ireland has been driven by a combination of factors, including the country’s stunning natural landscapes, its rich cultural heritage, and the vibrant and creative energy of its people.
Electric Picnic
September 1-3, 2023, at Stradbally Hall Estate, County Laois
Electric Picnic is one of Ireland’s largest and most popular music festivals, attracting over 55,000 people each year. Held over three days in September, the festival features an impressive lineup of international and Irish acts across multiple stages. Previous headliners have included The Chemical Brothers, Hozier, and Lana Del Rey. The festival takes place in Stradbally Hall Estate, County Laois, and offers a unique experience for music fans, with a wide range of food and drink options, art installations, and interactive experiences.
Longitude
July 14-16, 2023, at Marlay Park, Dublin
Longitude is a three-day festival held in Dublin’s Marlay Park in July. The festival features an impressive lineup of international and Irish artists, with previous headliners including Kendrick Lamar, Billie Eilish, and The Weeknd. The festival offers a diverse range of music genres, including hip-hop, pop, and electronic dance music, and is known for its lively atmosphere and energetic crowds.
All Together Now
August 4-6, 2023, at Curraghmore Estate, County Waterford
All Together Now is a relatively new addition to Ireland’s festival scene, but it has already established itself as one of the most unique and exciting festivals in the country. Held in the stunning Curraghmore Estate in County Waterford, the festival features an eclectic lineup of music, comedy, spoken word, and theatre. Previous performers have included The National, Patti Smith, and Hot Chip.
Forbidden Fruit
June 3-5, 2023, at Royal Hospital Kilmainham, Dublin
Forbidden Fruit is a three-day festival held in Dublin’s Royal Hospital Kilmainham in June. The festival offers a diverse range of music genres, including indie, electronic, and hip-hop, and attracts a young and energetic crowd. Previous headliners have included Skepta, The War on Drugs, and Bon Iver.
Body & Soul
June 23-25, 2023, at Ballinlough Castle, County Westmeath
Body & Soul is a three-day festival held in the picturesque Ballinlough Castle in County Westmeath. The festival offers a unique and immersive experience, with a focus on art, culture, and wellbeing, as well as music. The lineup features a mix of international and Irish artists, including emerging acts and established names.
Indiependence
August 4-6, 2023, at Deer Farm, County Cork
Indiependence is a three-day festival held in Deer Farm, County Cork in August. The festival offers a mix of indie, rock, and electronic music, as well as comedy and spoken word. Previous headliners have included Bastille, Catfish and the Bottlemen, and Manic Street Preachers. The festival offers a laid-back and friendly atmosphere, with plenty of activities and entertainment for all ages.
Sea Sessions
June 23-25, 2023, at Bundoran Beach, County Donegal
Sea Sessions is a unique and exciting music festival held on the beach in Bundoran, County Donegal in June. The festival offers a diverse range of music genres, including rock, pop, and electronic dance music, and attracts a young and energetic crowd. The lineup features a mix of international and Irish artists, as well as emerging talent. In addition to music, the festival offers surfing, beach soccer, and other outdoor activities.
