Country and cabaret at fabulous Folly Festival in Laois

The scarecrow festival may have flown the coop in Durrow but neighbouring Cullhoill is getting ready to throw a party for locals and visitors at the Folly Festival which is getting ready for take flight again in 2025. 

The organisers of this chic community event have told the Leinster Express Laois Live that people should get ready for another "unforgettable weekend" as the Folly Festival returns to the breathtaking grounds of Cullohill Castle on Friday and Saturday, July 4 to 5.

Known as Ireland’s first gender-balanced music festival, the organising team say the Folly continues to champion diverse talent, family-friendly fun, and a festival experience like no other.

This year’s lineup of entertainment is packed with standout acts from across the spectrum Irish music scene. There's a country flavour this year but cabaret also gets a looking as does dance, trad and folk. Local Laois talent will also get a chance to join the stars on the big stage. 

A Big Top Friday Night is in store on July 4th!

• The Jerry Fish Electric Sideshow – Indie legend and master showman Jerry Fish brings his carnival magic and new album Dreaming of Daniel to Cullohill.
• Lisa McHugh – Ireland’s Queen of Country-Pop and Spotify sensation.
• Clodagh Lawlor – Rising country star with powerhouse vocals.
• Cliona McDonald – One to watch on the Irish music scene.

A Show-Stopping Saturday IS PROMISED on July 5. 

• Chasing Abbey – Headlining with their signature Trad House energy and chart-topping hits.
• Ruaile Buaile – Folk-pop fusion with an infectious live presence.
• Barry Deegan – Local talent and crowd favourite returns after last year’s standout performance.
• Aislinn Townsend – Soulful vocals and rising star power.
• Cullohill Comhaltas – Celebrating Irish tradition through music and dance.

Apart from the music, there's lots of other entertainment at the Folly for families.

Daytime Events – Saturday, July 5th (Free Entry!)

Saturday daytime in Cullohill will be buzzing with activities open to all, no concert ticket required. Enjoy live music, artisan stalls, a dog show, Art Exhibition, crafts, food, vintage cars and the always popular Kid’s Fun Day in Nancy’s Yard.

Weekend tickets are €60, available now online at www.thefolly.ie and in person at Bergin’s Shop (Cullohill), Daltons (Cullohill), and Deegan’s (Urlingford).

Plus — up to two Under-14s go FREE with every ticket-holding adult!

"Join us for two incredible nights of live music and a full day of free community fun in one of Ireland’s most unique and intimate festival settings," say the festival team

This event is organised by the Cullohill Community Council and has had the support of Electric Picnic and Laois Partnership Co.

Read also: To win is surreal says Laois Rose 2025

Cullohill Community Council is a voluntary community group which was established in 2016 to act as an umbrella organisation for all local clubs and groups which operate within the area. The role of the Council to assist and support other groups to access funding and grants from local government and other state agencies to improve and enhance the local area, improve club facilities, develop tourism etc.

Monies raised from this event will contribute towards the community’s share of the funding required to progress a local project from the Cullohill Development Plan.

Cullohill Community Council acknowledge and appreciate the funding and support that they received from their sponsors. They also acknowledge the hard work and commitment of our community members who are all working on a voluntary basis to make this festival happen.