Crowds of Kildare people flocking to Forest Fest this weekend
Headliners include Echo & The Bunnymen, JAMES and Madness
Music fans from Kildare are flocking to Forest Fest 2026, with the three-day boutique festival set to welcome thousands of people to its new home at Bee's Wing Farm in Emo, Co. Laois all weekend.
Located just a short drive from Kildare via the M7, the festival has become a popular destination for music lovers across the county thanks to its mix of legendary acts, Irish artists and family-friendly atmosphere.
This year's move to a larger site will accommodate increased attendance while retaining the intimate feel that has become synonymous with Forest Fest.
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Headliners include Echo & The Bunnymen, JAMES and Madness, alongside an extensive line-up featuring Deacon Blue, The Charlatans, The Boomtown Rats, The Undertones, The Coronas, Paul Brady, Feeder, Kerbdog, Ned's Atomic Dustbin and The Wedding Present.
Traditional Irish music also takes centre stage on the Forest Fleadh Stage with performances from Kíla, Dervish and Jiggy, while the brand-new Kickin' Up Dust Arena will host country favourites Nathan Carter, Clíona Hagan, Michael English and Dave Lofts.
Festival organisers are encouraging Kildare attendees to travel sustainably.
Dedicated coaches will operate from Dublin and other regional centres, while frequent rail services to Portlaoise will connect with shuttle buses to the festival site.
Drivers travelling from Kildare can also access the venue easily via the M7, where free parking will be available.
General camping opens from midday on Friday, while the main arena opens at 2pm on Friday and midday on Saturday and Sunday.
Organisers have also reminded festival-goers to check the official app for stage times and event updates, and to familiarise themselves with the list of prohibited items before travelling.
Forest Fest is continuing its sustainability drive in 2026, with initiatives including reusable cups, expanded recycling, hybrid and solar-powered energy systems and biodiversity projects in partnership with Kildare Wildlife Rescue.
Attendees are also being encouraged to use public transport where possible and embrace a Leave No Trace approach throughout the weekend.