The Folly Festival: Great music, food, family-fun and castle views on offer this weekend

Festival season rolls on this weekend with one of Ireland's most unique events as The Folly Festival takes over the grounds of Cullohill Castle in Co Laois this Friday and Saturday, July 4 and 5.

Billed as Ireland's first gender-balanced festival, The Folly blends music, food, heritage and family-friendly fun in an intimate, historic setting.

Here's everything you need to know before you head to Cullohill:

The Line-Up

Music fans can expect a diverse mix of acts across both nights. Friday night's bill includes The Jerry Fish Electric Sideshow, Lisa McHugh, Clodagh Lawlor and Cliona McDonald, with organisers announcing new additions Down The Line and Nív.

On Saturday, Chasing Abbey, Ruaile Buaile, Barry Deegan, Aislinn Townsend and Cullohill Comhaltas are set to take to the stage.

Beyond the Music

Foodies are in for a treat. The Folly's "Taste of Laois" experience will showcase local produce, with artisan stalls offering everything from organic oats and sauces to juices and cocktails.

Cookery demonstrations will feature well-known names including Graham Herterich, known as The Cupcake Bloke, who will be sharing his sausage roll secrets and signing copies of his books. Ballymaloe chef Rory O'Connell returns to his childhood home turf for a demo titled "Coming Home", while Scarlett and Tamsin Allen, granddaughters of Myrtle Allen, will demonstrate jam and butter making.

Saturday morning kicks off with the Cullohill Mountain Walk, introduced by RTÉ's Doireann Ní Ghlacáin, offering spectacular views and followed by a well-earned local breakfast. For those after a gentler pace, foraging walks with Wild Food Mary will explore the countryside later in the day.

History buffs can learn more about the castle's heritage during a special talk and walk to mark Cullohill Castle's 600th anniversary, led by Professor Pádraig Ó Macháin. Meanwhile, artist Marie Moylan will be painting the castle live, bringing another layer of creativity to the event.

John Scanlan, organiser of the Folly Festival, said: "This weekend promises to prove very special, not only are we celebrating the 600th anniversary of the iconic Cullohill Castle, we have an incredible line up to suit all musical tastes.

"In addition to the musical lineup there is numerous alternative activities for everyone of all ages from food stalls and demos, to children’s activities and much more. There is an extensive car park at the Folly which we ask all festival goers to avail of, to avoid congestion in the village."

Family Fun

Families are well catered for, with Saturday daytime events in Nancy's Yard including face painting, tractor rides, games, magic shows, and performances from Cullohill Comhaltas.

There will also be a dog show, vintage cars, art exhibitions and the Great Folly Bake Off taking place in the village.

Daytime events are free for festival ticket holders, while non-ticket holders can access daytime activities for €5.

Getting There and Tickets

There's extensive parking available on site, and organisers are encouraging festivalgoers to use it to ease congestion in the village.

Weather-wise, there's no heatwave expected. Ireland's Weather Channel forecaster Cathal Nolan says festivalgoers can look forward to pleasant conditions, with temperatures of 17 to 20 degrees on Friday and 15 to 18 degrees on Saturday.

Tickets for The Folly Festival cost €60 for the weekend, with day passes also available. They can be purchased online at thefolly.ie/tickets or in person at local outlets in Cullohill and Urlingford. Children under 14 go free with a ticket-holding adult.

Whether you're there for the music, the food, the castle backdrop or just a great community atmosphere, The Folly Festival promises a memorable summer weekend in Laois.

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