Under blue skies and surrounded by the lush forest in Emo Village in County Laois, Forest Fest 2025 kicked off its opening day with a bang on Friday, July 25th. With record-breaking crowds and sunshine that lingered into the late evening, it was clear from the outset that this year’s festival wasn’t just back it was bigger, better, and buzzing with energy.
Spread across four unique stages The Forest Stage, The Perfect Day, The Village Stage, and The Fleadh Stage.
Friday was a feast of music that spanned decades and genres. From the nostalgia of ’80s and ’90s indie legends to fresh-faced talent and pulsing traditional tunes, there was a sound for everyone drifting through the trees.
The Forest Stage – Nostalgia Meets Electric Energy
Opening the Forest Stage was Irish alt-rock stalwarts Something Happens, whose blend of jangly guitars and heartfelt hooks immediately set the tone. Their cult-hit “Parachute” had fans singing along, pint in hand, arms in the air. It felt like a homecoming of sorts.
Next up was Tom Meighan, the former Kasabian frontman, who showed he’s firmly carving out a solo identity with swagger and edge. Then came one of the day’s biggest highlights: Franz Ferdinand. The Scottish rockers had the crowd in the palm of their hand from the moment the riff of “Take Me Out” kicked in easily one of the day’s most electrifying moments.
The Dandy Warhols brought their signature cool with a laid-back but tight set that reminded everyone just how many hits they’ve got in the locker. And to close the night? A high-octane tribute to Oasis by Live Forever that turned the packed main stage into a communal karaoke. “Don’t Look Back In Anger” rang out over Emo Park like a hymn glorious stuff.
The Village Stage – Indie Heroes and Cult Favourites
Over at the Village Stage, there was no shortage of sing-along moments and surprise gems. Cry Before Dawn delivered a polished, emotive set that showed why they remain a beloved act in Irish music history. The Four of Us and The Farm kept the energy high with solid sets that straddled the line between nostalgia and genuine passion.
Alabama 3, best known for The Sopranos theme tune “Woke Up This Morning,” were a standout. Their bluesy, acid-house-infused style created a groove-filled pocket of madness in the early evening. The night wrapped up with a Daft Punk tribute that turned the Village into a full-on dance party robot helmets and all.
The Perfect Day Stage – Up-And-Comers Shine Bright
The Perfect Day stage lived up to its name, acting as the perfect home for rising talent and local favourites. Shark School and The Jobseekerz impressed early with punchy, energetic sets that turned curious wanderers into new fans. The Luna Boys and The Deadlines followed with performances that proved there’s no shortage of talent bubbling up in Ireland’s live music scene.
Closing things out was Thin As Lizzy, a tribute act with real fire. They tackled Phil Lynott’s back catalogue with heart and flair, giving “The Boys Are Back In Town” a fresh dose of festival magic as the sun dipped low.
The Fleadh Stage – Trad, Rhythm, and Soul
For those after something a bit more rooted in Irish tradition, the Fleadh Stage offered a welcome contrast. Madra Salach kicked things off and Cua followed with a fusion of folk that felt both ancient and new.
Moxie delivered one of the most intricate and musically rich performances of the day tight arrangements, infectious rhythms, and technical brilliance. Stocktons Wing, legends of Irish folk, proved they’ve still got the goods, rounding out a fantastic trad session that had toes tapping and bodhráns beating into the night.
Elsewhere Around the Grounds
Not to be overlooked, the dance tent was hopping all day with a rotating lineup of DJs who kept energy levels sky-high be. Whether you were there for house, techno, or guilty pleasure pop remixes, there was something for every dancer’s taste.
And then, of course, the weather. For a festival that’s seen its fair share of rain in past years, Friday felt like a gift.
Blue skies, 19 degrees, and a gentle breeze created the kind of summer day that makes every pint colder, every song louder, and every moment feel like magic.
As someone who’s been to Forest Fest before, I couldn’t help but notice how much larger and livelier it’s become. Friday’s turnout was the biggest I’ve seen yet, and the atmosphere was electric from start to finish.
Tom Meighan photos: (Forest Stage)
Jobseekers photo: ( Perfect Day Stage)
Franz Ferdinand photos: (Forest Stage)
The Farm photos: (The Village Stage)
Moxie photos: (The Fleadh Stage)
The Dandy Warhols: (The Forest Stage)
Alabama 3 photos: (The Village Stage)
Photos & words – Ian Mc Donnell @mcgigmusic