Organisers of a popular Laois music festival have released their second lineup announcement for 2026, and Laois locals are excited.

Emo's Forest Fest Music and Arts festival will take place from July 24 to 26 next year, promising a weekend of great music.

The 2026 line-up brings together an exceptional mix of iconic and era-defining artists, including post-punk pioneers Echo and the Bunnymen, beloved Scottish pop-rock outfit Deacon Blue, and indie stalwarts The Charlatans.

The latest lineup announcement sees the addition of infamous Irish rock band The Coronas, 1980's 'Getting Away With It' Manchester band James, pop-ska legends Madness, and more exciting names.

Forest Fest will also be graced by acts from beloved alt-rockers The Lemonheads, anthemic rock outfit Feeder, high-energy trailblazers The Wonderstuff, genre-bending groovers Black Grape, era-defining indie band The Fratellis, cult alt-rock heroes Ned’s Atomic Dustbin and the acclaimed singer-songwriter Lloyd Cole.

Pictured: Forest Fest

Friday will see acts from Echo and the Bunnymen as headliners, The Charltans, The Undertones, The Lemonheads, Ned's Atomic Dustbin, The Wedding Present, Bad Manners, Bruce Foxton, These Charming Men, along with Dylan Flynn and the Dead Poets.

Saturday July 25 will be headlined by James, with performances following from Deacon Blue, The Coronas, The Sultans of Ping, The Fratellis, Lloyd Cole, King Kong Company, Power of Dreams, Hamsandwich, Fun Lovin' Criminals, The Hoosiers, The Minutes, Aoife Destruction, Hugh Cornwell and Thanks Mom.

The final day, Sunday July 26, will see the weekend close with an epic headliner- Madness. Acts following include Feeder, Kerbdog, The Wonder Stuff, Black Grape, A House is Dead, Cry Before Dawn, Jack Lukeman, Qween and the Dublin Gospel Choir.

Organisers say that this is just a taste of this year's lineup, with more acts to be announced.

"This sets the tone for what promises to be the standout festival bill of next summer," organisers said.

"From wonderfully moody classics to full-on sing-a-long anthems, Forest Fest 2026 is set to be an absolute feast of music for all to enjoy!".

Organisers recently revealed that the festival has moved to a different site- but don't worry, it will still be within the confines of Emo village. Forest Fest heads have hailed the move as 'a new home with the same magic'.

"While Forest Fest remains entirely within the picturesque confines of Emo Village, we are thrilled to announce our site has moved to Bee’s Wing Farm," they previously stated.

"This move allows for improved facilities and a smoother, more enjoyable flow throughout the weekend."

The updated layout includes expanded amenities, more toilets, additional food and drink vendors, and increased space in the arena, camping, and campervan areas.

The festival had previously taken place in Emo Park.

For all updates on Laois festivals as they come, keep an eye on the Leinster Express / Laois Live website.

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