With many of Ireland’s music festivals taking place on the east coast and in the midlands, the west of the country has been neglected on the gig-binging front. Until now, that is. The first Westport Festival of Music and Performing Arts is set for June 23rd and 24th ,with a stellar line-up of both Irish and international acts.
Pitched as “a grown-up festival for music fans who treasure their record collection”, former Kinks frontman Ray Davies will headline the inaugural non-camping event in the Co Mayo town. Joining him on the bill are The Waterboys, Seasick Steve, Alison Moyet, Nick Lowe, Lloyd Cole, Tom Baxter, The Dubliners, Duke Special, Damien Dempsey, David Kitt, Eddi Reader and more. There will be two stages, an acoustic arena and a kids’ area “to rival any music festival in the world”, according to organisers, who say that under-12s can attend free with any ticket-paying adult.
A number of up-and- coming Irish acts will also perform, including The Minutes, Cars Love Girls, The Kanyu Tree and Rainy Boy Sleep, with more names still to be added.
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