Delighted to be voted no4 in the best festivals poll in the Irish times. Forest Fest was conceived by local solicitor and visionary promoter Philip Meagher.
This indie music festival has, in a few short years, blossomed into a beloved event, captivating both first-time festival-goers and seasoned music aficionados.
The Genesis: A Dream Amidst Uncertainty
The journey of Forest Fest began in 2022, a time when the world was emerging from the shadows of the COVID-19 pandemic. Launching a new indie music festival in Ireland during such uncertain times was a bold endeavour.
Yet, with unwavering determination, Meagher and his dedicated team curated an event that promised intimacy, quality music, and a family-friendly atmosphere. The inaugural festival was met with enthusiasm, setting the stage for future successes.
Accolades and Recognition: A Testament to Excellence
The resilience and commitment of the Forest Fest team did not go unnoticed. The festival was honoured with the Midland Hospitality Award for two consecutive years, underscoring its dedication to providing an exceptional experience.
Further cementing its reputation, The Irish Times recently ranked Forest Fest as the No. 4 best festival in Ireland, placing it ahead of long-established events—a remarkable achievement for such a young festival.
Curated Excellence: Music at Its Heart
At the core of Forest Fest is a meticulously curated lineup that spans genres and generations. The festival has consistently attracted top-tier talent, ensuring that music remains the focal point.
From iconic acts like Suede,The Cult, Peter Hook, James and The Stunning to name but a few to contemporary favorites such as Pillow Queens, Dream Wife and Hermitage Green, the diversity and quality of performances have been stellar.
Our perfect day stage hosting and highlighting up and coming talent from Ireland and the UK. The addition of the Fleadh Stage introduced festival-goers to the rich tapestry of Irish folk and traditional music, featuring luminaries like Paul Brady and Sharon Shannon, Andy Irvine, and Daoirí Farrell.
In 2024 the Ibiza tent was added bringing pulsating beats and euphoric melodies from legendary DJ’s.
Beyond Music: A Tapestry of Art and Culture
Forest Fest offers more than just music. The Port Art Collective infuses the festival with creativity and magic, engaging attendees of all ages.
The Makers’ Tents buzz with activities like open mic sessions, wood carving, and crafts, while the sensory tent and Brat Bhríde provide spaces for reflection and connection.
Street art, circus performances, and a vibrant funfair add layers of excitement, ensuring there’s something for everyone.
Culinary Delights and Local Partnerships
A commitment to supporting local businesses is evident throughout the festival. Gourmet and street food stalls offer a plethora of culinary delights, while local craft brewers like Ballykilcavan and Wicklow Wolf serve exceptional beers.
For those seeking a touch of luxury, Pitched Perfect, a local enterprise, provides top-notch glamping facilities, allowing attendees to immerse themselves in comfort amidst the festivities.
Accessibility: Convenience at Its Best
One of the most lauded aspects of Forest Fest is its accessibility. The festival’s thoughtfully designed layout ensures that all stages and attractions are within a short stroll, eliminating the long treks that often plague larger festivals.
This convenience enhances the overall experience, making it especially appealing to families and those who prefer a more relaxed festival environment.
For those camping we have a new site this year much closer to the main arena. Our glamping partners Pitched perfect are on board again offering a top notch luxury camping experience.
Looking Ahead: 2025 and Beyond
As Forest Fest approaches its 2025 edition, excitement is palpable. Each year, the organizers strive to elevate the experience, building upon past successes and feedback.
The upcoming festival promises an even more impressive lineup, enhanced facilities, and new artistic collaborations, all while staying true to its core values of community, quality, and accessibility.
With acts such as Franz Ferdinand, Manic Street Preachers, Orbital, and Travis set to headline, Forest Fest 2025 indie music festival Ireland promises to be equally exciting.
Treat yourself to our exclusive VIP offering! Step into the luxurious VIP Marquee, complete with a private bar, expertly crafted cocktails, and cozy VIP seating for you to relax in style.
Groove to the beats of a live DJ and savor delicious snack food, and posh loos all within an intimate, elevated setting.
In a landscape crowded with festivals, Forest Fest stands out as a beacon of what passion, dedication, and community spirit can achieve. For both the casual attendee and the ardent music lover, it offers an experience that is as enriching as it is entertaining—a true testament to the vision of Philip Meagher and the unwavering support of all who make it possible
