For the first time, a bar at Barn Dance

THE BD FESTIVAL is Glendalough returns for its 11th year in March and will include fully licensed bar facilities for the first time.

For the past ten years, the festival has taken place on Good Friday and has operated a BYO (bring your own) policy in relation to alcohol for all ticket holders. But the changing of licensing legislation to lift the Good Friday sale of alcohol ban means revellers will be treated to a fully stocked bar.

Festival promoter Brian McDermott said: ‘For the last ten years we have been one of the few events taking place on Good Friday. The festival began as a very small event in 2008 with just 400 people and in 11 years it has grown to 4,000, becoming a firm fixture on the Easter calendar.

‘Due to the country’s strict licensing laws for Good Friday, we introduced BYO which proved incredibly popular. We will continue to operate this policy.

‘However, we welcome the new licensing legislation which means we can provide full bar facilities, which will give festival goers even more choice and enhance their experience and enjoyment.’

The festival takes place on the grounds of Glendalough House, consisting of fifteen hundred acre estate of mountainside, woodlands, pastures, rolling parklands and historic buildings.

Acts confirmed for this year include the legendary Kerri Chandler, pictured left, one of house music’s originators, Belgian house DJ The Magician, for his first 2018 gig on Irish shores, Perc, an internationally touring DJ and live act, label owner and one of the most respected producers in modern electronic music and Boots and Kats, with the distinctive disco and funk duo guaranteed to move the crowd with their eclectic set. Other performers will be DJ collective Fleetmac Wood, 1990s tribute band Smash Hits and Bingo Loco, which is bingo with a difference to include rave rounds, CO2 guns, confetti cannons, conga lines and dance offs.

There will also be a Food Market and a selection of stalls to cater to your every need.