Splash of Ibizia in Laois at Forest Fest summer boutique festival

A soggy event in 2023 hasn't damped the enthusiasm of the Laois promoter of the Forest Fest 'indie boutique festival' who is coming back with more in 2024 with a splash of Ibiza thrown in.

The third edition of the festival is scheduled again for Emo village on the weekend of July 19.  Forest Fest' promoter is Portlaoise man Philip Meagher.

“We’ve been listening attentively to the feedback from those who enjoyed Forest Fest this summer, to the local community, the bands and the artists and it’s a resounding thumbs up for the Forest Fest formula. So, we are delighted to confirm that it’s happening, we are going again next year,” he said.

Despite the heavy downpours of rain that dogged the 2023 edition, Mr Meagher was full of enthusiasm for next year.  

“The message too, is loud and clear, don’t go changing, we love you just the way you are, and we intend to heed that desire for an interesting line-up in an intimate setting. People loved the Forest Fest vibe, and we want to stay true to that as bigger isn’t always better,” assured Philip, who revealed that negotiations are already underway with agents and artists to secure a first-class programme of performers," he said.

Mr Meagher indicated that there would be improvements.   

“Our second Forest Fest this summer ran off really well and was a great success, but we know we need to tweak some things, make improvements to ensure and enhance an even better Forest Fest experience next July.   

“We’ve locked in our dates and now the work is underway to put the best bands, artists, attractions, food offering, children’s entertainment, camping facilities and so on to provide a safe and fun family-friendly festival, at a fair price point, not just for the tickets but the beverage, food and refreshments offering as well.   

“We have the same team behind this year’s successful event on production, staging, security, vendors, online customer service to ensure we maintain high standards and production values for a quality show and performance on all levels, right throughout the festival weekend and across all aspects of the event.   

"We will be repeating the festival arena setup with four dedicated arenas to include the very popular festival fleadh tent and arena for the best of up-and-coming Irish acts with an emphasis on as much local talent as possible.  One of our tents will also be dedicated late at night to recreating the Ibiza Summer Dance Vibe from the 90’s with international DJ’s already booked," he said.

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