The summer may be winding down, but in Stradbally the party is only getting started. Electric Picnic opens today, bringing 80,000 festivalgoers together for a weekend of music, art, comedy, food and celebration in the heart of Co Laois.
The line-up is a blend of global stars and fresh voices. Hozier is headlining Friday night from 10.30pm to midnight in what promises to be an emotionally resonant return to home ground. Sam Fender brings indie rock anthems and emotional directness to Saturday’s Main Stage, while Chappell Roan injects camp pop flair and theatrical touches into the weekend.
Listen: Evelyn O'Rourke reports from Stradbally as the Electric Picnic gets up and running on Friday
Not to be overlooked: Kneecap, the fierce Belfast hip hop trio, stages a politically charged appearance on the Main Stage, and organisers have vowed their microphones will not be switched off, underscoring a commitment to open expression.
On the more experimental tip, Inhaler carry Dublin’s rising indie rock credentials, while Self Esteem (aka Rebecca Lucy Taylor) delivers bold, performance-driven pop. The crowd-pleasing spectacle of Confidence Man, and the dreamy cinematic pop of Suki Waterhouse, round out a stage-rich weekend.
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Electric Picnic - the acts not to miss
Homegrown highlights
Irish talent is strongly represented at Electric Picnic this year, with a mix of established names and rising stars across the weekend.
Crumlin's Jazzy returns to the Electric Arena on Sunday evening, fresh from her chart-topping success with Giving Me and a run of festival appearances this summer. The Academic, favourites from Westmeath, open their Electric Arena slot on Friday night, with new material expected alongside their best-known tracks.
On Saturday, For Those I Love, the project of Dublin musician David Balfe, brings a powerful set of spoken word and beats to the 3Music Stage, while Orla Gartland follows on Sunday evening with her award-winning songwriting.
Elsewhere, Bell X1 are back as one of Ireland’s most established live acts, and Limerick trio Kingfishr add to the indie presence with their soaring, folk-inspired sound. Other Irish names to watch include Amble, Mundy, Aaron Rowe and Khakikid, each contributing their own style to a strong homegrown showing
What to know on day one
- Travel and arrival: Road closures around the venue are in effect. Do not rely on GPS alone. Follow official signage, or better yet, use organised coach services or public transport to ease your journey and reduce carbon footprint.
- Cashless everything: All on-site payments are cashless. Charge your phone and ensure your card or wristband is linked and topped up before entering.
- Camping essentials: Equip yourself well. Bring a reliable tent, comfy bedding, rain gear, warm layers, toiletries, a torch and a strong flask for those early-morning coffee grabs. Pack snacks and a refillable bottle to save time and money.
- Know the risks: The HSE’s Safer Nightlife Harm Reduction service is present for the fourth year running, offering confidential drug checking and advice.
- Watch the skies: Ireland’s changeable summer weather may bring heavy showers, wind and cooler temperatures, especially on Saturday. A waterproof jacket and sturdy boots are must-haves. And SPF!
Beyond the music
Electric Picnic has always offered more than its headline acts, and this year is no exception. The Body & Soul arena will again provide a mix of wellness sessions, art installations and late-night performances, giving festivalgoers space to recharge or explore away from the main stages.
The Comedy Tent returns with a packed line-up of stand-up, while the Theatre of Food showcases chefs, producers and food innovators throughout the weekend.
