Festivals in Laois summer 2024
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Summer 2024 Festivals in Laois Guide

Did you know that around 25% of Laois’ music festivals happen in the summer of 20241? This season turns Laois into a lively cultural spot. It blends traditional gatherings with modern entertainment. Traditional festivals are a big part, making up 15% of all Laois’ events.

So, if you love live music, art shows, or historical fun, Laois is the place. It’s known for big Irish events like Electric Picnic and the National Ploughing Championships. Check out our Laois Festival Calendar for 2024. It’s packed with exciting activities for everyone.

Key Takeaways

  • Around 25% of all music festivals in Laois take place during the summer of 20241.
  • Traditional festivals constitute approximately 15% of the summer events in Laois1.
  • Laois is home to major Irish festivals, including Electric Picnic and the National Ploughing Championships.
  • The summer of 2024 offers a diverse array of events including art, music, and heritage.
  • Explore our comprehensive Festival Calendar Laois 2024 for all upcoming cultural festivals in Laois.

Portlaoise Tradfest

Portlaoise Tradfest 2024 is an exciting music festival in Laois. It offers a weekend full of lively music and fun for families. The event will run from May 4th to May 6th, over the May Bank Holiday weekend.

Event Dates and Locations

The festival spans from May 4th to May 6th. It will have 35 music sessions at nine venues. This makes it a must-see for anyone who loves traditional music2. People from all over will come to enjoy these performances.

Portlaoise Tradfest 2024

Activities and Attractions

The Trad Battle of the Bands is a highlight for teenagers. They can win €500 in this competition2. Additionally, workshops at the Laois Music Centre will help people learn more about music.

Portlaoise Tradfest stands out by mixing exciting performances with chances to learn. It guarantees fun for the whole family during the weekend.

Slieve Bloom Walking Festival

The Slieve Bloom Walking Festival is a one-of-a-kind event for those who love the outdoors. It features seven guided walks of various difficulty levels. These walks take place in beautiful parts of Laois, offering woodland, mountain, and canal trails for all walkers2.

Slieve Bloom Walking Festival

Guided Walks and Trails

Participants can enjoy the natural beauty of the region through different trails. This includes easy woodland paths and more difficult mountain routes. These walks are for anyone interested in exploring Laois’s stunning landscapes2.

The Slieve Bloom Mountain Bike Trails festival is perfect for biking fans. It includes the exciting Coillte Biking Blitz race, events for young people, and fun group rides3.

Wildlife and Scenery Highlights

The festival lets attendees experience Laois’s wildlife and nature. They might see local plants and animals during the walks. With its rich wildlife and beautiful scenery, it’s a top pick for nature enthusiasts and outdoor lovers2.

Timahoe Heritage Festival

The Timahoe Heritage Festival in Laois is packed with fun and history. It’s set for June 1 and 2, making it a key date in the local calendar4. You can enjoy performances, have family fun, and see shows about the area’s past5.

Viking Reenactments

At the *Timahoe Heritage Festival 2024*, expect amazing Viking invasions reenactments. These shows will make you feel like you’re in Viking times in Laois5. Besides, there will be talks and events to remember the 425th year since the ‘Passing of Plumes’ battle6.

Family Fun and Activities

The *Timahoe Heritage Festival 2024* is great for the whole family. There’s a fun funfair and a 5K Heritage Run for those who love to join in5. You can also learn from historical group displays and workshops. Plus, there’s a book launch about a local hero to look forward to5.

Timahoe Heritage Festival 2024

Gordon Bennett Classic Car Run

The Gordon Bennett Classic Car Run is a key event for vintage car lovers in Laois. It honours the rich history of classic cars. In 2024, over 120 classic cars joined the Irish Classic Car Run7. People from Ohio, USA, came to enjoy it too7. This event celebrates the craftsmanship and passion of classic car fans7.

Gordon Bennett Car 2024

Car Show and Parade

A parade of vintage cars kicked off the event. It began with the International Gordon Bennett Rally8. Around 100 cars made before 1930 gathered at Mount Wolseley Hotel in Tullow, Co Carlow8. They followed a set route using a road book8. The parade went through beautiful places like Laois, Carlow, and Kildare. It stopped at the Japanese Gardens and Monasterevin’s festival7 and9. This part of the event mixes scenic views with a historic racing spirit8.

Vintage Clothing and Gala Dinner

One special thing about the Classic Car Run in Laois is wearing vintage clothes. It adds an extra touch of history and nostalgia. The event wrapped up with a gala dinner at Treacy’s on The Heath. There was a barbecue and live music7. Here, fans could look back on their journey and enjoy the evening. It was the perfect ending for the Gordon Bennett Car 2024 event7.

Event Feature Description
Car Show and Parade 100+ pre-1930 cars, various route stops including Japanese Gardens and Monasterevin’s street festival78
Vintage Attire Participants encouraged to wear period clothing, enhancing the nostalgic experience7
Gala Dinner Finale event at Treacy’s on The Heath with barbecue and live music7

Laois Garden Festival

The Laois Garden Festival, also known as Buds and Blossoms, will be at Spink Community grounds on June 9th. This event stands out among other gardening gatherings in Laois. It features horticultural experts like Frances Tophill from ‘Gardeners’ World’ and Karl Wright of Caher Bridge Gardens. John Jones, a local from Crettyard, Laois, will also share his gardening know-how.

This festival is a must-see for garden lovers in Laois. It offers a lot, from talks by gardening stars to a chance to buy rare plants. You can learn a ton from these experts and find unique plants at the stalls10.

Buds and Blossoms Laois goes beyond beautiful flowers. It includes workshops on green gardening practices. These interactive sessions will teach visitors about eco-friendly gardening methods. This makes the festival a top pick for people who love gardening.

Laois Garden Festival

But it’s not just for gardeners. The festival has fun activities for the whole family. Kids and grown-ups can join in games and learn about plants. There’s also a food village with tasty local treats and handcrafted goods. It’s a great place for everyone to enjoy.

Make sure not to miss the Laois Garden Festival. It celebrates nature and brings the community together. This festival shows why garden events in Laois are a big deal every year.

Old Fort Quarter Festival

The Old Fort Quarter Festival in Portlaoise is a lively event. It happens every year and showcases the town’s deep cultural roots. From June 27th to 30th, 2024, you can join in the fun11. It mixes history, heritage, music, and fun family events for a memorable time.

Live Music Events

Expect amazing live music from bands like Smash Hits and Transmitter11. With two stages, the music never stops. You’ll hear rock, pop, and even Irish tunes11. The main street will be for walking only, ensuring everyone stays safe and has fun11.

Cultural festivals Laois

Family and Heritage Activities

The Festival is big on family and heritage. It’s known as one of Laois’s best cultural events. You can try archery, make your own shield, enjoy comedy, watch family shows, play giant games, and get your face painted11.

There’s also a Drumming Circle, Treasure Trail, Heritage Talks, and a Heritage Walk just for families. These activities share Portlaoise’s history and culture, fun and learning for all ages11.

Don’t miss the artisan market with local food and crafts. Street shows and performances run all day from noon to 6 pm. They keep the street buzzing with excitement. These events make the Old Fort Quarter Festival a top choice for families and history buffs interested in this ancient town11.

Folly Festival

The Folly Festival in Cullohill, Laois, is a standout event on July 5th and 6th. It’s held near the historic Cullohill Castle and hill. This makes it Ireland’s pioneer in being gender-balanced. As such, it welcomes everyone warmly during summer’s festivity calendar12. Men and women share the stage equally. Comedy and music acts are a highlight, so everyone enjoys a mixed and varied show.

Folly Festival Laois

Gender Balanced Line-up

The Festival stands out with its gender-equal line-up. You’ll see performances from both male and female comedians and musicians. It’s a front-runner in fair stage time for all genders. This uniqueness places the Folly Festival Laois above others, influencing newer events to learn from it12.

Family-Friendly Attractions

The event is perfect for families, set in the beautiful Cullohill surroundings. There are activities for all age groups. And with weekend tickets, families can enjoy it all together. It shows how festivals can be fun for everyone, making it a must-visit for families at Laois’ music festivals12.

Forest Fest

Get ready for Forest Fest 2024. This boutique festival in Laois will be in Emo village from July 19th to 21st13. It’s famous for its mix of music. Acts like The Cult, The Human League, and Ocean Colour Scene will perform. Irish stars The Divine Comedy and Paul Brady will be there too13. Also, international DJs will bring an Ibiza Summer Dance Vibe from the 90s14.

Forest Fest 2024

Headline Acts

The lineup for Forest Fest 2024 is amazing. It has four stages in Emo village. You’ll see a range of well-known and new music acts highlighting its diverse offerings13. Loyalty tickets go on sale at 9am on Wednesday, December 13, 2023. Early bird tickets follow on December 15, 202314.

Camping Options

Forest Fest isn’t just for music; it’s a top camping festival in Laois too. There are several camping options. Every effort is made to ensure comfort. Emphasis on local talent and high production quality help keep things well-organised and fun14.

Forest Fest is highly rated for its facilities and how it’s run. It has a Google rating of 4.9 out of 5 from 235 reviews13. This outstanding score shows the festival’s dedication to an unmatched experience.

Durrow Scarecrow Festival

The Durrow Scarecrow Festival is a unique event in Laois. It will run from July 28th to August 5th, 2024. Thousands of visitors will come from both near and far15. There are lots of activities for everyone, making it a favourite for family fun in Laois.

Scarecrow Village

The Scarecrow Village is at the heart of the festival. It’s created and looked after by 20 to 30 dedicated volunteers16. Here, families can enjoy face painting, crafts, stories, bouncy castles, and the Miami Slide, the biggest inflatable slide in Europe15. There’s also local food and crafts to buy15.

Durrow Scarecrow Festival

There’s more to enjoy too. Guests can join in woodturning and rush-making workshops15. The village is filled with music from bands like The Finns and Drops Of Green15. Visitors will be entertained by scarecrows made to look like famous people, including Donald Trump and Ryan Tubridy16.

All Ireland Scarecrow Championships

The All Ireland Scarecrow Championships is the highlight. It has over 150 scarecrow entries17. The event offers a €3,000 prize fund, with €1,000 for the winner17. Now in its fourth year, it looks set to be the best yet17.

Enthusiasts can enter various categories, like Sustainability and Climate Action16. The festival is solely run by volunteers who start preparing from July 15th16. Whether competing or watching, the Championships will be great fun.

For more event details and schedules, visit the Durrow Scarecrow Festival webpage. We can’t wait to welcome you to one of Laois’s top family festivals, where you’re sure to have a brilliant time.

Stradbally Steam Rally

We’re excited to share news about the Stradbally Steam Rally 2024. This year, it marks 60 years since it began18. The rally will be on August 4th and 5th, 2024, over the Bank Holiday Weekend in Ireland18. It’s held at the back of Main Street in Stradbally, Co. Laois, giving everyone easy access to the town’s facilities18.

The celebration starts with a stunning Steam & Vintage Parade on August 5th. It will showcase old steam engines and vintage cars19. Besides this, you can enjoy live music, lawnmower races, shopping at trade stalls, and visiting a pet farm18. There’s more, like sheepdog shows, vintage road building, a food tent, and steam trains at Stradbally Woodland Railway18.

There will be plenty of fun for kids and adults. Expect a sawbench display, a blacksmith’s shop, craft stalls, and lots of different steam engines to admire18. Declan Nerney will also perform live music, adding to the festive vibe19. History lovers will enjoy watching threshing, seeing trucks and cars from the past19.

The Stradbally Steam Rally is special. It’s the only one in Ireland and the British Isles with 100% renewable fuel, thanks to Arigna Fuels19. The event’s aim is to make heritage activities eco-friendly for the future19.

You can get tickets for the rally and also for camping or bringing a caravan. It’s a great way to fully enjoy the rally’s atmosphere19. Don’t forget to save the date, August 6th and 7th. It’s an event not to be missed in Stradbally, Co. Laois19.

The Stradbally Steam Rally 2024 is perfect for everyone, young and old. It promises to be a highlight among Laois’s historical events19. We can’t wait to welcome you!

Electric Picnic

The Electric Picnic festival is celebrating 20 years in 2024. It began in 2004 as a one-day event and has since grown into Ireland’s largest festival. It’s a beloved mix of music and arts, winning the hearts of many20. This year, it’s happening in Stradbally, Co Laois, from August 16th to 18th. Around 75,000 people are expected to join the fun20.

A month after tickets went on sale on Ticketmaster IE, Electric Picnic 2024 will kick off21. Fans can’t wait to see top artists like Calvin Harris, Nas, and Kylie Minogue21. It offers a mix of music types, ensuring everyone finds something they love21. This makes it one of Laois’s most anticipated events of the year.

This year, Electric Picnic is focusing on being more eco-friendly. The main stage will run on renewable energy, the first for a festival in the region20. Plus, even though tickets seemed all sold out at first, some became available. This happened when some people’s credit card payments didn’t go through20. This news created quite a buzz and shows how important the festival is for Laois.

Electric Picnic isn’t just a big event in *Laois*. It’s made a name for itself worldwide. In 2024, you can enjoy music from various genres. This event is an important part of the county’s culture, welcoming visitors from near and far. Its use of renewable energy is just one way it shows its commitment to the planet. We can’t wait to experience the wonderful music and atmosphere it brings.

Festivals in Laois summer 2024

The Festival calendar Laois 2024 is full of rich cultural and heritage events. It starts with the Portlaoise Tradfest in early May. This event has 35 trad music sessions in nine places, perfect for music fans2.

Then, there’s the Slieve Bloom Walking Festival over the May Bank Holiday. It offers seven guided walks for those who love the outdoors2.

In June, the Timahoe Heritage Festival kicks off with a family funfair and a 5km race2. The Gordon Bennett Classic Car Run shows off vintage cars in Laois and beyond, from May 31 to June 32 and May 31 to June 21.

Don’t miss the Laois Garden Festival on June 9. It brings gardening celebs like Frances Tophill and Karl Wright2.

Come June 27 to 30, the Old Fort Quarter Festival in Portlaoise is a must for music fans. It features bands like Smash Hits and Transmitter2.

For a community vibe, head to the Folly Festival in Cullohill from July 5 to 6. It boasts a balanced lineup. Then, there’s Forest Fest in Emo village from July 19 to 21, welcoming bands like The Cult and The Human League2.

The same month, the Laois Walks Festival takes place. It runs from July 1 to 31, offering beautiful walks around the county1.

From July 28 to August 5, enjoy the Durrow Scarecrow Festival. It’s packed with fun including the All Ireland Scarecrow Championships2.

Then, there’s the Steam Rally in Stradbally celebrating its 60th from August 4 to 5. It warms up the crowd for the Electric Picnic from August 16 to 182 and August 16-18, 20241.

Plus, the Rosenallis Festival on the Mountain and Bonny Baby competitions in mid-August cater to different tastes2.

For art fans, the Summer events guide includes the Twin Trees Festival. It offers a three-day workshop from August 22 to 252.

The big finale is the National Ploughing Championships in Ratheniska from September 17 to 19. It’s Europe’s biggest outdoor farming event, attracting a quarter million visitors2 and 17th-19th September 20241.

Wrap up the season at the Applefest in Abbeyleix. Here, you can see apple pressing and enjoy wood-fired pizza in late September2.

Rosenallis Festival on the Mountain

The Rosenallis Festival on the Mountain is a top event among Laois’ traditional festivals. It unites local communities with visitors. This celebration happens in mid-August. It has been loved since 1962 but was paused for five years and then restarted22. Organised by the Rosenallis Development Association and the Rosenallis and District Vintage and Classic Club, it mixes vintage rallies’ charm with tradition’s nostalgia22.

The Rosenallis Mountain Festival has lots to offer. It includes fun contests like a bonny baby and a glamorous granny contest. These bring a friendly competitive flavour to the fun. You’ll also find a dog show, vintage machines, and plenty of local food stalls22. Entrance costs €10 for adults. Kids can join for free, making it perfect for families22.

The next Rosenallis Festival and Vintage Rally will be on Sunday, August 20, 2023, at the Festival Field in Rosenallis22. Last year, over 2,000 people attended, showing its close-knit community and high spirits23. This year, there will be more activities for everyone22.

The festival helps support local causes and charities. All earnings go to these important projects22. Events like this help strengthen Laois’ cultures and economy. They also bring people together for fun and joy. With traditional games, art, live music, and more, the Rosenallis Mountain Festival offers something for everyone22.

Twin Trees Festival

The Twin Trees Festival 2024 promises to be a unique mix of art and wellness. Located in the beautiful Ballinakill, it runs from 22nd to 25th August. This festival is a key event in Laois’ calendar of art celebrations.

Art Workshops

At the Twin Trees Festival 2024, the three-day En Plein Air art workshop stands out. It’s an outdoor painting event for anyone over 18. One day costs €40, while three days are €10024. Participants will paint at beautiful locations. This makes the Twin Trees Festival a leading event in Laois for art enthusiasts.

Yoga and Outdoor Activities

For those looking for wellness events in Laois, there’s something special. The festival offers outdoor yoga at Heywood Gardens, a serene spot. It gives everyone a chance to relax. Also, there’s a fishing contest at the village lake for more active fun. All these activities turn the Twin Trees Festival into a complete experience.

Conclusion

The summer of 2024 in Laois looks set to be amazing. It’s packed with festivals everyone will love. For those who enjoy traditional music, there’s the Portlaoise Tradfest. If you’re into heritage, check out the Timahoe Heritage Festival. We’ve detailed the big festivals so you can enjoy the best of Laois25.

The Laois Garden Festival and Durrow Scarecrow Festival show real community spirit. They also let creativity shine. For those looking to dance, Forest Fest and the Old Fort Quarter Festival are ideal. Mountmellick Arts Centre will have the All-Ireland Drama Finals. They promise nights full of great theatre25.

For culture and wellness trends, the Twin Trees Festival is perfect. Don’t miss the health activities. Top artists like Paddy Critchley and Lia Laimbock will showcase their work. This shows Laois’ strong support for the arts26. Attending these events lets us dive into local life. It creates memories and a better understanding of Laois’ rich history and its lively community.

To sum up, Laois’ summer 2024 is a feast of celebration. There’s something for everyone – whether you love history, art, or music. The cultural guide for Laois in 2024 is your passport to an amazing season. You’ll be amazed by the mix of old traditions and new ideas. Laois makes this summer stand out from the rest.

FAQ

When does the Portlaoise Tradfest take place in 2024?

The Portlaoise Tradfest happens on the May Bank Holiday weekend. It covers May 4th to 6th.

What are the main attractions of the Slieve Bloom Walking Festival?

The Slieve Bloom Walking Festival has seven guided walks. They vary in difficulty and go through Laois’ beautiful landscapes.

What types of events can we expect at the Timahoe Heritage Festival?

The Timahoe Heritage Festival will have Viking reenactments and history talks. Plus, a 5km road race, funfair, and family games near the round tower.

What vehicles can participate in the Gordon Bennett Classic Car Run?

The Gordon Bennett Classic Car Run is for cars more than 30 years old.

Who are some of the featured speakers at the Laois Garden Festival?

Gardening experts like Frances Tophill from the BBC and Karl Wright will speak. Also, John Jones from Crettyard, Laois.

What kind of live music can we expect at the Old Fort Quarter Festival?

The Old Fort Quarter Festival will have bands like Smash Hits and Transmitter.

What makes the Folly Festival unique?

The Folly Festival is special because it has an equal mix of male and female comedians and musicians.

Which notable acts are performing at Forest Fest?

Forest Fest features 80s and 90s music icons like The Cult and The Human League. Plus, Irish stars such as The Divine Comedy and DJ Jenny Greene.

What is the main highlight of the Durrow Scarecrow Festival?

The All Ireland Scarecrow Championships is the big event at the Durrow Scarecrow Festival.

When is the Stradbally Steam Rally taking place?

The Stradbally Steam Rally runs on August 4th and 5th.

What are some of the main attractions at Electric Picnic 2024?

Electric Picnic 2024 includes top acts like Kylie and Calvin Harris. It’s expecting 75,000 fans.

What activities can we find at the Rosenallis Festival on the Mountain?

The Rosenallis Festival has a range of activities. These include a baby and granny contest, a dog show, and much more.

What does the Twin Trees Festival offer for art and well-being enthusiasts?

The Twin Trees Festival is great for art and well-being. It has an art workshop, outdoor yoga, and a fishing contest.

References:

  1. Festivals Events in Offaly and Laois 2024 Slieve Bloom MTB festival
  2. Your essential guide to the packed schedule of Laois festivals in 2024
  3. Take a hike: 10 of the best walking and outdoor festivals around Ireland in 2024
  4. The Ultimate Guide To Art And Culture Festivals Ireland 2024
  5. June Bank Holiday events, Midlands | Midlands Ireland
  6. Saint Mochua – Timahoe Heritage Festival 2024
  7. Gordon Bennett run celebrated classic cars from a bygone era in Laois
  8. Competing in the Gordon Bennett Rally, we feel the crunch in our 98-year-old racing car
  9. June Bank Holiday events, Midlands | Midlands Ireland
  10. Curious Gardens is a series of one-day walled garden festivals in Doneraile Estate, Cork and Emo Court, Laois this September | Nialler9
  11. Old Fort Quarter Festival, Portlaoise
  12. Your essential guide to the packed schedule of Laois festivals in 2024
  13. Main Lineup – Forest Fest
  14. Forest Fest3 – boutique festival in Emo confirmed for summer 2024 return – Laois Today
  15. Durrow Scarecrow Festival
  16. Behind the scenes at the Durrow Scarecrow Festival 2023
  17. Durrow Scarecrow Festival, July 28 to August 5
  18. Stradbally Steam Rally
  19. It’s back! National Steam Rally takes place in Stradbally this Bank Holiday weekend, August 6-7 – Laois Today
  20. Electric Picnic reveals lineup of more than 50 acts for 2024 music festival
  21. Electric Picnic 2024
  22. Beloved Laois traditional mountain festival set to rise again
  23. Rainbow Gathering could make sensational return to Rosenallis more than 30 years on from first historic visit – Laois Today
  24. Summer Camps Archive – Open Up
  25. Your full guide to 2024 All-Ireland Drama Finals as Laois venue announced as host – Laois Today
  26. The Laois Arthouse and Library

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