The Daily Star Ireland
The Irish summer may be drawing to a close, but in Stradbally, Co Laois, the party is just beginning. Electric Picnic officially kicks off today, welcoming 80,000 festivalgoers for three days of music, art, comedy, food and culture at Ireland’s largest and most celebrated festival.
Early Start for Campers
Although the Main Stage action doesn’t begin until Friday, the atmosphere begins to build on Thursday night. Campsite gates open at 4pm for those with early access passes, giving fans the chance to set up before the festival gets into full swing.
As night falls, the legendary Salty Dog stage deep in the forest bursts into life. Dublin icons Aslan headline the evening, supported by acts including SexyTadhg, Mik Pyro, The Fynches, My Bad Sister and Paddy Hanna. For many, it’s the perfect way to ease into the weekend.
Other festival hubs also start buzzing. Areas such as Freetown, Trailer Park, Mindfield and Fish Town open their doors, offering everything from live debates and spoken word to immersive art installations and late-night hangouts.
Global Stars and Local Icons
This year’s line-up blends international heavyweights with rising artists. Friday night belongs to Hozier, who returns to home soil for what promises to be an emotionally charged headline set from 10.30pm until midnight. Saturday brings the raw indie energy of Sam Fender, while Chappell Roan’s flamboyant pop theatrics add a splash of colour to the weekend.
Political hip-hop trio Kneecap take their message to the Main Stage, with organisers making clear that their mics will remain firmly switched on—an important signal of the festival’s commitment to free expression. Elsewhere, Dublin rockers Inhaler continue their rise with a major slot, while Self Esteem (Rebecca Lucy Taylor) delivers bold, performance-driven pop. Confidence Man’s infectious spectacle and Suki Waterhouse’s dreamy cinematic pop round out a diverse bill.
Strong Irish Representation
Irish acts are once again at the heart of the festival. Crumlin’s Jazzy, fresh off her chart-topping single Giving Me, takes to the Electric Arena on Sunday evening following a summer of festival success. Westmeath favourites The Academic open their weekend on Friday night, performing both crowd favourites and new material.
On Saturday, David Balfe’s For Those I Love brings a moving blend of spoken word and beats to the 3Music Stage, followed on Sunday by Orla Gartland, whose songwriting has won awards and a loyal following.
Elsewhere, veterans Bell X1 return with their trademark live energy, while Limerick trio Kingfishr continue to grow their reputation with soaring folk-inspired anthems. Up-and-coming Irish names like Amble, Mundy, Aaron Rowe and Khakikid add further variety to an already rich homegrown line-up.
Practical Essentials for Day One
Festivalgoers are urged to plan carefully:
- Travel: Road closures are in place. Organisers recommend using official coach services or public transport rather than relying on GPS.
- Cashless Payments: All on-site spending is cashless, so ensure wristbands or cards are topped up. Keep phones charged.
- Camping Gear: A reliable tent, warm bedding, waterproof clothing, boots, and a refillable water bottle are essential. A torch and some snacks will make life easier.
- Safety: The HSE’s Safer Nightlife Harm Reduction service returns, offering confidential drug testing and advice for the fourth consecutive year.
- Weather: Forecasts predict heavy showers and cooler temperatures, particularly on Saturday. Rain jackets, sturdy boots and sunscreen are all must-haves.
More Than Just Music
Electric Picnic has long been about more than headline performances. The Body & Soul arena once again offers a sanctuary of wellness sessions, visual art and intimate late-night shows. The Comedy Tent provides a packed roster of comedians, while the Theatre of Food highlights Ireland’s culinary talent with chefs, producers and innovators taking centre stage.
With a mix of international stars, powerful Irish voices and a diverse cultural programme, this year’s Electric Picnic looks set to deliver another unforgettable weekend in Stradbally.
