Athy's Greenfields Festival promises stellar line-up 

ATHY Greenfields Festival is gearing up for its most ambitious year yet this May bank holiday weekend, with organisers promising an action-packed weekend of music and family fun that is set to elevate the beloved two-day event to new heights.

Now in its most challenging year to date, Greenfields will host four stages and more than 80 acts across the two days.

The festival is organised by a team including Dan and Edwina Curtis and Fran O’Mara.

Speaking about the build-up, one of the organisers, Amanda Smyth, couldn’t hide her excitement: “We just can’t wait to put on the production that we know we can do. We have a great team of people involved from all different departments. It’s ultra-exciting.” 

Headlining the main stage are some of Ireland’s biggest names in music, with Gavin James and The Stunning taking over Sunday night, while The Whistling Donkeys and Aslan are set to entertain crowds on Saturday. Other acts performing at the festival include Robert Grace and Dublin rapper Casper Walsh as well as Jerry Fish, and Switch Disco, among many, many others. 

In an exciting twist, this year will see the debut of a brand-new country music stage, complete with a mega-dance floor, aimed at offering something for every musical taste.

Another highlight is the outdoor Heineken stage, which will host an all-DJ lineup on Sunday, a move that came from listening to audience feedback and aiming to tick every box for festival-goers.

“We’re touching on nearly every genre of music,” Amanda said. “The site has already started, and the countdown is on – we’re ready for it.” 

But Greenfields isn’t just about music. The festival is also family-friendly, with KidsFest offering free entry for under-12s when accompanied by an adult. Young attendees can enjoy a range of free activities, including magic shows, face painting, a pamper parlour, and a freestyle football skills camp.

The vintage carnival will also return this year, so expect your favourite rides at this year’s festival.

Foodies will be spoiled for choice, too, with a dedicated food arena offering global cuisine to satisfy all palates. Beverage options are expanding as well, with new partnerships this year including White Claw and Stradbally craft brewery Ballykilcavan, alongside long-time supporter Heineken.

A special highlight for emerging talent comes through the festival’s Battle of the Bands competition. Finalists not only compete for the title but get the chance to perform at the festival itself – a major milestone for any up-and-coming act.

“For many of them, making it to the final was already a win,” said Amanda. “Just getting to play at Greenfields is a huge deal.” As the final preparations come together, the team remains energised.

“I thrive on it,” Amanda said. “I’m not in this on my own – we have a great crew. We’re just excited for everybody to come along and enjoy two days of fun and our vision for what Greenfields is all about.” 

Tickets are still available via the Greenfields Festival website and The Auld Shebeen bar.

And the cherry on top? “The weather is looking fantastic,” Amanda confirmed.

With an ever-expanding line-up and community spirit at its heart, Greenfields 2025 looks set to have its most unforgettable year yet.