More acts added to Forest Fest line-up

WITH just over four months to go the promoters of Forest Fest have added another 24 acts to their line-up over the three day festival event.

Already announced acts include Manic Street Preachers, Franz Ferdinand, Travis, Orbital, The Stranglers, Bad Manners, Billy Bragg, Pillow Queens, Hermitage Green, Something Happens and The Riptide Movement.

The 24 new acts announced include Alabama 3, The Magic Numbers, Nick Lowe, Robert Finley, The 4 of Us, Mary Coughlan, Sharon Shannon, Jack Lukeman, Thumper, Kiera Dignam, Paddy Casey and Queen tribute act Qween.

This year marks the fourth edition of the Laois music festival which takes place on the grounds of Emo Court from Friday 25 to Sunday 27 July.

Founder of Forest Fest Phillip Meagher said: “I'm really thrilled by the growth and evolution of the festival over the last three years and the enthusiastic support that we have received from all sections of the music-loving public. Our event is focused on providing the very best in long-established legendary domestic and international acts while also giving an opportunity to the very best emerging and local talent.

"We are primarily focused on a more mature, music-loving, fun-loving audience, and we are committed to providing a very comfortable and convenient experience, with free parking and a strictly limited number, ensuring a boutique feeling throughout the weekend. All facilities are within a short walking distance.

"We offer the best of international and domestic artists, with food and drink options that include all the usual brands, plus local and craft beers, a whiskey corner, and a cocktail bar. We create a relaxed, fun party atmosphere and, as people have commented, it’s like being at the biggest family barbecue you will ever attend—with the difference being that the likes of Manic Street Preachers, Franz Ferdinand, and Travis drop by with their guitars to provide the entertainment!

"Every detail has been carefully considered and curated to deliver an unforgettable weekend of world-class music, great company, and an unbeatable atmosphere.” 

Day-by-Day Announced Line-up: 

 • Friday, 25th July:

Franz Ferdinand, The Dandy Warhols, Tom Meighan (ex-Kasabian), The Farm, Alabama 3, Something Happens, The 4 of Us, Cry Before Dawn, Harvest, Daft Punk Tribute, Live Forever (Oasis tribute), Madra Salach 

 • Saturday, 26th July:

Manic Street Preachers (exclusive Irish summer 2025 performance), Orbital, The Stranglers, Kula Shaker, Peter Hook & The Light, Therapy?, Pillow Queens, Aoife Destruction & The Nilz, Thumper, Teenage Fanclub, Reef, Kerbdog, Mary Coughlan, Sharon Shannon, The Olllam, Coach Party, Dirty Blonde, The Riptide Movement, Kevin Coneff Dublin Trio, Kiera Dignam 

 • Sunday, 27th July:

Travis, Billy Bragg, Tony Hadley (ex-Spandau Ballet), The Magic Numbers, Bad Manners, Nick Lowe, Robert Finley, Qween (Queen tribute), Jack L, Paddy Casey, Sack, Hermitage Green, Andrew Strong, Ryan Sheridan, Frankie Gavin and De Dannan, Bingo Loco.