The first Electric Picnic took place in 2004. It was a single-day event headlined by the Belgian electronic duet 2 Many DJs, composed of Stephen and David Dewaele. The line-up also included Plump DJ's, David Kitt, Super Furry Animals, Jurassic5, Grand Master Flash, Arrested Development and Groove Armada. The event attracted about 10,000 music lovers.
The present-day Electric Picnic is a three-day event that draws nearly 50,000 festival-goers every year. It is noted for its eclectic line-up, a positive and relaxed atmosphere, and more emphasis on quality festival services and eco-friendly initiatives.
The festival encompasses different genres and styles of music, including alternative, indie and dance. Its music choice is more electric than most mainstream festivals, which is reflected in the name of the festival. Over the years, Electric Picnic has hosted many notable international acts, including Fatboy Slim, Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds, Basement Jaxx, Massive Attack, Pet Shop Boys, Björk, The Chemical Brothers, LCD Soundsystem, Sex Pistols, My Bloody Valentine, Arctic Monkeys, and many others.
Concerts takes place on several stages, including the Main Stage, Electric Arena, Rankin’s Wood, Cosby Tent and Little Big Tent. Along with the music program, the festival incorporates other attractions, including film screenings, a silent disco, the Comedy Tent, and the Body and Soul Arena offering an ambient lounge with beanbags, tarot card readings and massages, and other activities for festival-goers of all ages.
Electric Picnic takes place at Stradbally Hall, a large house in the heart of Stradbally owned by the Cosby family. Thomas Cosby, the current owner of the estate, is the one who initiated the Electric Picnic festival. The festival has a camping site, and many attendees prefer to stay there because camping with other festival-goers adds to the unique experience that Electric Picnic offers.
Photo: Jamie Tanner
