Hidden gems! 6 EPIC Irish festivals on our Road Trip list this summer

Don't have a holiday abroad planned this year? No need to fall into a bad-weather related depression and start firing evils at anyone who so much as mentions the word "airport."

If there's one thing our little country does well, its summer festivals, and this year you'll be spoilt for choice.

Grab your tent and wellies, hop in the car, and before you know it you'll be having the time of your life – without the need for a boarding pass and a Bureau de Change.

Body & Soul
June 19 – 21
Ballinlough Castle, Westmeath

Body & Soul originally started off as an arts and music area within the grounds of Electric Picnic, and its since branched out into its own – completely wonderful – weekend. Think of B&S as Electric Picnic's smaller, artsier younger sister. Get your tickets fast though as we reckon it'll be a sell-out this year.

 

Castlepalooza
July 31- Aug 2
Charleville Castle, Tullamore, Co. Offaly

The very definition of a boutique festival, Castlepalooza takes place in a wooded wonderland on the grounds of Charleville Castle. And when we say 'on the grounds,' we mean it – you're a slip in the mud away from landing wellies-up in the beautifully tended gardens.

 

Indiependence
July 31 – Aug 2
Deer Farm, Mitchelstown, Co. Cork

Head south for INDIE, Munster's answer to Electric Picnic, with a stellar line-up of bands each year. Everyone from Kodaline to Basement Jaxx are playing this year.

 

Sea Sessions
June 19 – 21
Bundoran, Co. Donegal

Despite Ireland's vast coastline, there are few festivals that make use of our beach areas – except for Sea Sessions, which takes place right on the strand in Bundoran. Wrap up warm, kids, this is an Irish beach we're talking about.

 

Vantastival
May 1 – 3
Bellurgan Park, Co. Louth

This family-friendly festival takes place every May Bank Holiday. As the name suggests, campervans are a big focus at this festival – you can park on site at no extra charge – but there's also a separate campsite for those using tents. Another teeny tiny festival that's gained huge popularity in recent years, since it started in 2010.

 

Another Love Story
Aug 21 – 23
Killyon Manor, Co. Meath

This tiny festival is only in its second year, but we're already in love. Expect to see some amazing new music, meet a gorgeous crowd of people and generally have a weekend of all-round magical antics.

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