Band on the Strand, organised by Foróige District Council in Mayo, was a huge success once again this year. The heavy rainfall did not dampen spirits on Friday last as 1,800 party goers arrived to the youth event of the year on Lacken strand. The beachfront music festival is an alcohol and drug free gig which provides young people, aged 12 to 18 with a chance to enjoy all the fun of a summer festival without the huge price tag or the pressure to drink or take drugs.
Band on the Strand had its debut two years ago and has grown consistently since then. The club exchange system, set up by Bonniconlon Foróige Club last year, has played a big role in developing the event into a national gig attracting young people from all over Ireland. The club exchange links visiting clubs with Mayo based clubs and has proven really effective for the event, as well as a great way for young people to make new friends. This year more than 1,500 young people attended the event.
Entertainment was provided by youth bands UV5 from Cork, Liquid Coma from Blanchardstown in Dublin and local band, Struck, from Castlebar. Like most festivals, the bands were not the only entertainment. Food stalls, carnival games and a massive fireworks display ensured it was truly a night to remember.
