Forest Fest has been named Festival / Event of the Year 2025 at the Midlands 103 Hospitality Awards, announced at a gala ball in the Tullamore Court Hotel last night, Monday, 10 November.
The award recognises Forest Fest’s exceptional contribution to arts, culture and tourism in the Midlands, and celebrates its continued growth as one of Ireland’s most loved independent music and arts festivals. Since its inception in 2021, Forest Fest has become synonymous with a welcoming atmosphere, world-class live performances, and a strong sense of community, all set against the beautiful backdrop of Emo Village, Co. Laois.
Collecting the award, Festival Director and founder Philip Meagher said:
“We’re absolutely thrilled to receive this recognition from the Midlands 103 Hospitality Awards. It’s a real privilege to be honoured by our own community – the people who have supported Forest Fest from day one. Forest Fest was founded to bring a world-class line-up to music lovers who appreciate quality acts in a boutique, accessible setting where everything is within walking distance and the atmosphere feels like home. The festival was built on a simple idea: to celebrate music, creativity and togetherness in a comfortable, sustainable and family-friendly environment. This award is a tribute to the incredible team, artists, partners and festival-goers who bring that vision to life every year.”
Forest Fest extends its congratulations to the other outstanding nominees in the category: Electric Picnic (Stradbally), National Ploughing Championships (Tullamore), Mullingar Blues & Jazz Festival, and Tullamore Show & FBD National Livestock Show – each of whom contribute greatly to the Midlands’ vibrant cultural and events landscape.
ABOUT FOREST FEST
Founded by Laois native Philip Meagher, Forest Fest was established with a clear mission: to bring world-class music to people who appreciate quality line-ups and a premium festival experience. It’s a festival for those who want to see the kind of acts that haven’t played together in Ireland in decades — line-ups so good, you’d think you were looking at a poster for Féile 1995, Glastonbury 2000 or Oxegen 2009.
Forest Fest champions indie, Britpop and rock at their finest, while also showcasing the very best in homegrown talent across its dedicated trad, folk and new music stages. The entire village of Emo becomes the festival site, meaning everything — music, food, camping and parking — is just a short walk away.
Looking ahead to Forest Fest 2026, the team is reimagining the site to make it even more enjoyable, comfortable and accessible for festivalgoers — with a more walkable layout, improved amenities, more toilets, additional food and drink vendors, and extra space in the arena, camping and campervan areas.
The vision for the future is clear: to continue growing Forest Fest into one of Ireland’s best-loved festivals while maintaining the boutique atmosphere and premium experience that set it apart — a truly independent event that can compete with the best festivals worldwide.
Save the Date
Forest Fest 2026 will take place in Emo Village, Co. Laois, from Friday 24 – Sunday 26 July 2026. Festival-goers can look forward to another unforgettable weekend of music, arts, and community spirit.
Main photo credit – Brian Bastic