Since the first Electric Picnic festival was held in 2004, the phrase “I’ve always wanted to go to Ireland, but I’ve never had the chance,” has never seemed so redundant. In an age where we are spoilt for choice in arts festivals, Electric Picnic has established itself as an event that delivers something truly special. Held at Stradbally Hall - a 600-acre estate in County Laois - the setting is, this year, as spectacular as the line-up.
The main attractions include the musical phenomenon that is Arcade Fire, as well as Pulp’s glorious reunion show and, for those more dance music inclined, Underworld and The Chemical Brothers to look forward to. Whatever your musical persuasion, the main stages are unlikely to disappoint, but Electric Picnic doesn’t just rest on its headlining laurels. Elsewhere, there are NY stalwarts Interpol and The Rapture, as well as such up and coming bands as Los Angeles quartet Warpaint and indie-pop sensations The Drums. With acts as diverse as Public Enemy and (Dublin’s own) Sinead O’Connor, Electric Picnic also boasts one of the most eclectic line-ups of the mainstream festivals.Electric Picnic isn’t just about the music, of course. Those in need of comic relief can make their way to the ever popular Comedy & Spoken word corner, where the brightest comedians, breakthrough and established, will be keeping Irish eyes smiling. The Spoken Word Area will also be providing stimulation for the mind with a range of speakers, interviews, experiments and plenty of uniquely Irish activities in a tent dedicated to Gaelic.
The Body & Soul Village will once again be providing plenty of bohemian pleasures; art installations, holistic therapies, theatrical performances and impromptu gigs. Far from being a quirky aside to the main festival, the Body & Soul Village has a diverse and exciting programme of its own. If last year’s performance from Caribou is anything to go by, The Body & Soul Village will be the place to be to catch some unforgettable experiences. Expect the unexpected.
Electric Picnic provides more than your average three-dayer. You’ll get an amazing musical line-up (that doesn’t include U2 or Coldplay in any shape or form), as well as a plethora of comedic, artistic, literary and therapeutic experiences that promise to make Glastonbury look positively quaint. If you’ve never been to Ireland, now is the time.