Thousands expected for sold-out tribute band festival in Thurles this weekend

Qween performing to a huge crowd at the 2023 festival in Thurles

placeholder image — Qween performing to a huge crowd at the 2023 festival in Thurles

The Liberty Music Festival is back for it's third year

Five thousand people are expected in Thurles this weekend for the sold-out Liberty Music Festival.

The hugely popular tribute band festival will kick off on Saturday, July 6 and run through Sunday July 7 in Thurles Town Park.

Organiser and councillor Jim Ryan told the Tipperary Star the event will provide an economic boost for Thurles and show off what the town has to offer.

“It will be a fantastic weekend for Thurles. Hopefully we get the weather.

“It will put Thurles on the map as one of the best places for festivals,” said Cllr Ryan.

Visitors are expected from every county in Ireland as well as from the UK and the US.

Fourteen acts will take the stage with last year’s favourites Complete Madness (Madness) set to return on Saturday and Qween (Queen) and Waterloo (Abba) on Sunday.

Also on Saturday, Guilty Pleasures (Madonna), James Bermingham (Wham), Dedication (Thin Lizzy), Heroes from Mars (Bowie), Proud Mary (Tina Turner), Mack Fleetwood (Fleetwood Mac). Playing on Sunday are Smokie, The Piano Man (Elton John and Billy Joel), Supersonic (Oasis), The 80s Generation, and Slippery When Wet (Bon Jovi).

Throughout the weekend there will be a funfair and there will be a range of vendors selling food at the town park.

Crokes Athletics Club, Thurles Gaels GAA Club and Rugby Club grounds will accommodate 800 campervans and tents for the event.

There is to be a regular shuttle bus services from all campsites to and from the festival site and the cost of which will be €2 each way per person, cash only.

Cllr Ryan said he expects the huge crowds will spend money providing support to the many businesses in the town.

For more information on the all things Liberty Music Festival, check out their Facebook page.