It’s summer, which means one thing, lots and lots of music festivals.
While some music festivals are strictly over 18s, many Irish outdoor concerts allow children and have special family-friendly spaces.
I’ve always loved festivals and can’t wait to share the experience with my children.
If you’re looking to rock out with the kids this summer here are three Irish music festivals that you can bring the tots to.
Body & SoulÂ
Located in Westmeath, Body & Soul runs from June 22 to June 24.
I don’t know if my nine-month-old would be quite up for camping just yet but once she is, this is definitely a festival we’ll be visiting as a family.
Body & Soul offer special camping grounds for families with dedicated toilets, hot showers, family friendly traders, storytelling sessions and hot water bottles. There’s even a special entrance for those bringing children to make your arrival smoother.
The festival has a Soul Kids programme with lots of activities including yoga and creative workshops.
A family weekend camping pass cost €199. The event is for adults over 20 years of age but children under the age of twelve can attend when accompanied by a parent or guardian.
The Beatyard
This is one I have on the books to bring the kids to this year.
Beatyard, based in Dun Laoghaire, is a weekend festival running from August 3 to 5, with music and fun that all the family can enjoy.
There’s no camping involved, you just pop along on the day and enjoy activities including Imaginosity and The Kidsyard.
For teens, they have Studioyard, where they will have coder dojo, lego building and music production.
My son is obsessed with The Jacksons so when I heard they were playing I just knew this was something I had to bring him along to.
Children’s tickets are €5 but toddlers under two go free.
Electric Picnic
One of the best known Irish music festivals, Electric Picnic has become an annual ritual for a lot of people, including parents.
It wasn’t a festival I realised you could bring children to until last year when a friend of mine brought her two sons.
Each year the Picnic boasts an impressive lineup and it’s great to know that even if you can’t get a sitter, you don’t have to miss out on seeing your favourite artist.
Taking part in Co. Laois from August 31 to September 2, they have a special area for children and a reception for babies, toddlers and children up to age twelve.
A family weekend ticket costs €454. Children under twelve must be accompanied by a parent or guardian who is over 18 years old at all times and those wishing to stay in the ‘Family Campsite’ must have children 12 years or younger in the group.
