Electric PicnicIreland's Electric Picnic: immersive music and arts in lush landscapes.

Electric Picnic is Ireland’s largest and most beloved music and arts festival, held annually in the scenic grounds of Stradbally Hall, Co. Laois. Taking place from August 16–18, 2024, the festival draws 75,000 attendees and is celebrated for its diverse mix of music, arts, and cultural experiences. Known for its vibrant and immersive atmosphere, Electric Picnic offers a weekend filled with top-tier performances, interactive art installations, and unique culinary experiences, all set against a backdrop of lush landscapes and historic architecture.

Music and Artists

Electric Picnic 2024 showcases a wide range of music genres, making it a truly eclectic festival. The main genres represented include:

• Pop
• Rock
• Electronic
• Hip-Hop
• Folk

Notable performers for 2024 include:

• Calvin Harris
• Kylie Minogue
• Noah Kahan
• Gerry Cinnamon
• Kodaline
• Peggy Gou
• Faithless
• Nas
• Sophie Ellis-Bextor

The festival features multiple stages, each offering its own unique experience. The main stage is powered by renewable energy for the first time in 2024, part of a larger effort to reduce the festival’s environmental impact. Other stages, such as Terminus, offer all-night dance parties, while hidden stages like those in the forested glades host more intimate performances, enhancing the magical festival vibe.

Location

The festival takes place at Stradbally Hall, a historic estate in County Laois. Surrounded by rolling fields and wooded areas, the venue’s natural beauty is a key part of Electric Picnic’s charm. With a capacity of 75,000, the estate transforms during the festival into a bustling hub of music, art, and adventure. Attendees can explore unique areas like Trailer Park and the Pirate Ship, both known for their whimsical and imaginative designs.

Art Installations

Electric Picnic is renowned for its vibrant art scene, with large-scale installations, immersive experiences, and interactive exhibits. Art themes often explore ideas of nature, culture, and creativity. Areas like Anachronica: The Abandoned City in the Woods provide a surreal and mysterious atmosphere, where festival-goers can discover hidden treasures and secret shows. Artists and collectives from around the world contribute to the visual landscape, enhancing the festival's reputation as a cultural as well as musical event.

Festival Experience

Multiple Stages

Each stage at Electric Picnic offers something different. The Main Stage hosts the biggest acts, while other stages like Terminus and Electric Arena cater to dance, electronic, and indie music fans. Hidden stages and impromptu performances can also be found throughout the festival.

Food and Drinks

Electric Picnic prides itself on offering a wide range of food options, with stalls serving everything from local Irish cuisine to global street food. Gourmet options and vegetarian/vegan-friendly stalls are also abundant, ensuring there’s something for everyone.

Fashion and Culture

Electric Picnic is a hub of self-expression, with attendees often seen wearing colorful and creative festival outfits. The festival encourages creativity, and many festival-goers embrace bold fashion statements that reflect the vibrant, carefree spirit of the event.

Workshops and Activities

Electric Picnic offers various workshops and activities, including:

• Yoga and wellness sessions
• Interactive art workshops
• Sustainability talks
• Circus and performance art demonstrations

Camping

Electric Picnic offers several camping options, from general camping to more luxurious glamping areas like Pink Moon Camping. These areas come with a variety of amenities, including pre-pitched tents, showers, and lounge areas, enhancing the comfort of the festival experience.

Accommodation

In addition to on-site camping, attendees can choose from a range of nearby accommodation options, including hotels, bed and breakfasts, and private rentals in the surrounding areas. Shuttle services are available to transport festival-goers between the venue and nearby towns.

Tickets and Attendance

Electric Picnic typically sells out quickly, with tickets for 2024 already sold out. Tickets range from general admission weekend passes to VIP options, which include access to exclusive lounges and upgraded amenities. A small number of tickets are occasionally released due to cancellations.

History

Founded in 2004, Electric Picnic began as a one-day event and has since grown into Ireland’s most iconic multi-day music and arts festival. Over its 20-year history, it has evolved from a niche event into a cultural staple, known for its diverse lineup and immersive atmosphere. Key milestones include the festival’s expansion to 75,000 attendees and its increasing focus on sustainability, with 2024 marking the first year the main stage is powered entirely by renewable energy.

Sustainability Efforts

Electric Picnic has implemented several sustainability initiatives, including:

• Waste management programs: On-site recycling stations and initiatives to reduce single-use plastics.
• Renewable energy: The main stage is powered by renewable energy in 2024, a first for festivals in Ireland and the UK.
• Eco-friendly transport: Shuttle services and carpooling options help reduce the carbon footprint of attendees.
• Community involvement: Local vendors and artists are prominently featured, supporting the surrounding community.

Electric Picnic continues to lead by example in making large-scale festivals more sustainable and environmentally responsible.