Athlone’s newest music festival kicks off next weekend with an eclectic mix of home-grown musicians, emerging talent, and family entertainment. Running across the August bank holiday weekend Athlone Music Festival will see some 25 musicians and bands play in Athlone Town Football Stadium on Saturday July 31 and Sunday August 1.
Organiser Ultan Moran and music industry expert Ray Rose have sourced firmly established Irish artists including Sharon Shannon, Hazel O’Connor, and Imelda May, as well as up and coming musicians such as Wireless, Huey and the Hobgoblins, and Heathers to perform over the two days.
Speaking to the Advertiser Ultan explained that this festival is not a once-off venture and will definitely return next year. “We have no sponsors this year, the festival is financially backed by ourselves. This will happen again next year, and it will get bigger.”
“We want people to get behind it, we have around 25 acts over the two days and lots of family entertainment. And we’re already looking at next year. We have a five year plan for this festival and want to see it grow,” he added.
The music line up for Saturday July 31 includes Sharon Shannon and the Big Band, Imelda May, Mundy, Heathers, Mad Dog Mcrea, Very Angry Girls, and Mullingar favourites The Aftermath.
Sunday’s line up features The Undertones, Hazel O’Connor and the Subterraneans, Big Generator, Frantic Jack, Futures Apart, Hickory Wind, and The Woodbines, to name but a few.
Adult and children’s entertainment includes bouncy castles, bungee jumps, face painting, food stalls, and traders.
Doors open at 10am on Saturday and Sunday and music will start at midday each day.
Tickets are available from www.ticketmaster.ie and various outlets.
For more information log on to www.athlonemusicfestival.com
