Boasting a well deserved reputation as one of Ireland’s most unique independent music festivals, this weekend sees Vantastival perform its swansong at Beaulieu House and Gardens. The gorgeous seventeenth-century estate outside Drogheda will host three days of music, family fun, food, campervan culture, and magical community spirit as Ireland’s most beloved independent festival celebrates its last edition at Beaulieu.
As Festival Director Louise Tangney says, “Beaulieu has been the heart of Vantastival for nearly ten years, and it’s where we have created countless memories together. This year we want to honour that history with a weekend full of music, colour, laughter and community spirit. Rather than saying goodbye, we see it as one last chance to fill these grounds with joy. It’s going to be the most ambitious, vibrant, and positive edition of Vantastival yet, and we can’t wait to welcome everyone back to make it truly unforgettable.’”
With a series of happenings promising an unforgettable weekend of music, food, and campervan culture for the whole family, we’ve put together everything festival-goers need to know, from stage times to exciting new experiences and hidden gems across the site.
On The Bill…
The line-up for this farewell edition features a stellar array of Irish and international talent, with headline sets from Orbital’s Phil Hartnoll, HousePlants, Susan O’Neill, and Junior Brother, while singer-songwriter Gemma Hayes will deliver a heartfelt performance on Sunday to close the weekend in style. Trad and folk fans can look forward to the sounds of The Bonny Men, Ispíní na hÉireann, and Corner Boy, while electronic fanswill be treated to the atmospheric beats of Elaine Mai, the late-night energy of the Crow’s Nest, and the return of Dublin producer Neosupervital.
True to form, Vantastival also shines a spotlight on hidden gems and emerging artists, with this year’s OUR Generation programme showcasing inspiring performances by Ireland’s next wave of young musicians. The weekend will also feature special experiences such as the Renegade Rascals Fire Show, blending flame-twirling spectacle with live music for a fiery late-night highlight.
Stage Times…
The stage times for Vantastival are staggered across the Woodland Stage, Tow Bar Stage, and Glasshouse Stage, giving festivalgoers a packed weekend of music from Friday through Sunday.
On Friday, the Woodland Stage kicks off at 6PM with MBUR and runs late into the night with Elaine Mai closing at 11:30PM, while the Tow Bar Stage keeps the energy flowing with acts like Resin, Sun Mahshene, and The Last Vinci.
On Saturday, music starts earlier, with OUR Generation opening the Tow Bar Stage at 11:30AM, followed by a steady stream of performances across all three stages throughout the day, finishing with HousePlants at 11:30PM on the Woodland Stage and The Twisted Sisters at 10:45PM on the Tow Bar Stage.
Sunday continues the momentum, with The Lags opening the Tow Bar Stage at 1PM, and acts including The Cacks, Reevah, Corner Boy, and Gemma Hayes leading into a big finish. The night closes with Phil Hartnoll on the Woodland Stage at 11:30PM, alongside Jinx Lennon wrapping up the Tow Bar Stage at 11:10PM.
Beyond the Stage…
Families will once again find a home at Vantastival, with the Enchanted Garden Kids’ Camp providing an expanded programme of entertainment for younger attendees, with a ‘BEE Kind’ nature theme through the weekend. Children can enjoy circus skills workshops, comedy, open mic opportunities, giant bubbles, face painting, and lots more. The festival’s family-friendly ethos remains at its core.
Vantastival is not just about the main stages. Hidden corners and intimate spaces have always been part of its magic, and 2025 will be no different. The Glasshouse Stage, housed in a converted Georgian pavilion, will host stripped-back acoustic performances offering quiet moments away from the bustle of the arena. Juicebox Comedy also returns to the Crow’s Nest, bringing some of Ireland’s sharpest comedians, with David McSavage closing out Sunday evening’s sessions in Beaulieu’s woodland hideaway before the DJs take over.
Throughout the weekend, walkabout performers and spontaneous pop-up sessions will delight audiences, while secret céilís and woodland adventures remind everyone that Vantastival is as much about discovery as it is about music.
Bites and Bevvies…
This year’s food village will showcase some of Ireland’s finest street food traders, with a feast of flavours and creative treats to keep festival goers fueled all weekend. Tuck into favourites like Home Fries, or grab a juicy burger, hot dog, or steak sandwich from the ever-popular Silverline Catering. The Big Blue Bus will be serving up all the hits to pizza lovers throughout the weekend, while plant-based eaters are spoiled for choice with hearty veggie dishes from The Crazy Vegetable and Bish Bosh.
The Hartrey Kitchen brings artisanal Indian curry pastes and spice blends, while Crepewagon serves up irresistible crêpes, churros, and other fresh family-made delights. Sweet tooths too are catered for, with JJ Ices offering ice cream and slushies, and decorate-your-own vegan cakes from The Dreaded Ginger. Wash it all own with quality coffee, perfect for a morning boost or a midday recharge courtesy of The Brew Crew Cafe and Coffee Bean Brothers. Raise a glass with Brehon Brewhouse from Carrickmacross, who will be pouring a range of their locally crafted beers.
The much-loved Cully & Sully Campervan Cook-Off takes place on Sunday afternoon, in a contest that challenges campervan chefs to prepare a two-course meal using only their van’s facilities, with identical ingredients provided for all contestants. It is competitive, unpredictable, and quintessentially Vantastival.
Dress to Impress…
Dressing for Vantastival is all about comfort, creativity, and being prepared for whatever the Irish skies decide to throw your way. It is a good idea to bring sturdy boots for dancing and plenty of layers that you can add or remove as the weather shifts. Since rain showers often arrive uninvited, a waterproof jacket is essential. Festivalgoers are encouraged to embrace sustainable style by rewearing old favourites, borrowing from friends, or supporting local brands.
Tent campers should bring a solid and reliable tent, a warm sleeping bag, and a camping mat is highly recommended for extra comfort. A reusable water bottle is a must with water refill points located throughout the site. Bringing a reusable coffee cup or mug is also highly encouraged. To help with waste management, pack rubbish bags to keep recycling and landfill waste separate. Smokers are encouraged to bring a portable ashtray with a lid.
Getting There…
Getting to Vantastival is easy and convenient, with the festival site located just forty-five minutes north of Dublin along the M1 motorway. Drogheda is also well served by both Irish Rail and Bus Éireann, making public transport a viable option for those who want to leave the car at home. For drivers, free on-site parking is provided, and for campervan enthusiasts, there is the added bonus of being able to park right beside the arena at no extra charge.
Those who prefer tents will find a welcoming campsite close to the heart of the action, ensuring everyone can soak up the festival atmosphere regardless of how they choose to camp. The campsite opens at 2PM on Friday the 19th of September for those with weekend tickets. The car park and box office will close at 11PM on Friday and reopen from 10AM to 10PM on Saturday the 20th and Sunday the 21st for those with day tickets.
Words: Martina Murray
The final edition of Vantastival takes place at Beaulieu House and Gardens, Drogheda from Friday 19th to Sunday 21st September. Tickets are are available now via Eventbrite and vantastival.com/tickets.
