The Forest Fest Music and Arts Festival, set to take place from 25 to 27 July 2025 in Emo Village, Co. Laois, will offer a varied programme of music, comedy, and cultural activities in a compact, family-friendly setting.
Visitors can expect a diverse lineup across five stages, featuring over 80 acts, including Manic Street Preachers, Franz Ferdinand, Travis, Orbital, The Stranglers, Billy Bragg, Peter Hook & The Light, and traditional Irish music from Stockton’s Wing and Sharon Shannon on the dedicated Forest Fleadh Stage.
The festival includes family-oriented entertainment, with free entry for children under 12 accompanied by an adult, and affordable teen tickets for those aged 13 to 18. Circus and street theatre performances, drumming workshops, and a fun fair cater to younger attendees, while artisan food trucks, craft beers, and a cocktail bar provide dining options. A maker area showcases local crafts, and a new VIP area offers private bars and fast-track access. The event, held near the historic Emo Court, encourages exploration of the surrounding parklands and village, with free parking and shuttle buses from nearby towns like Portlaoise and Portarlington.
Camping options, including tent and campervan passes, are available at Killimy and Morette, accommodating up to 7,500 campers, with the festival capped at 12,000 attendees plus 1,500 staff and artists to maintain an intimate atmosphere. The festival’s layout ensures short distances between stages, and a sustainability initiative with Native Events promotes eco-friendly practices, such as waste management and uniforms made from recycled materials.
Founded in 2022 by Philip Meagher, a former solicitor with a passion for music, Forest Fest emerged from a desire to create a relaxed, accessible festival experience distinct from larger, more crowded events. Meagher’s vision was to foster a community-focused gathering that prioritises quality performances and comfort, earning the festival recognition as the Best Festival at the Midlands Hospitality Awards in 2023 and a fourth-place ranking among Irish Times readers.
Now in its fourth year, the festival has grown in scope while retaining its boutique character. Philip Meagher continues to serve as the director, overseeing a team that curates a blend of international headliners, Irish talent, and local traditions, ensuring the event resonates with both music enthusiasts and families.
The 2025 edition, with its expanded lineup and new features like the Ibiza Rewind dance tent, aims to build on this foundation, offering a weekend of music and connection in the scenic Laois countryside. Details at www.forestfest.ie.
