Organisers of the inaugural Night and Day Festival, which took place last weekend on the grounds of Clonalis House, say they were ‘blown away’ by the positive reaction from revellers and artists alike.
Organiser Craig Hughes said the event passed off without incident with visitors enjoying live music and political debate.
“The response has been overwhelming so far to be honest. The atmosphere was amazing across the weekend. There were no arrests and it all passed off safely which is the most important thing,” he said.
“We could have sold more tickets but these things take time to grow – but overall we were blown away by the response. It was great seeing all the smiles on people’s faces and to be able to bring the Night and Day Festival to Castlerea was amazing”.
Festival-goers converged on the picturesque surrounds of Clonalis House from Saturday afternoon, with many camping over the weekend.
Visitors last weekend were treated to political discussion on the Sol Stage with local TDs as well as Minister for Justice Helen McEntee and Minister Simon Harris, while there was live music on the Queen Medb and Luna Stages throughout both days.
Local artists FEEF and Arlene joined acts such as Villagers, John Grant, The Mary Wallopers, Junior Brother, The Zutons, Orla Gartland and Cathy Davey across the weekend while the Sol Stage provided entertainment late into the night on both Saturday and Sunday.
“The festival was filmed by TG4 for a five-part series which will be aired at the end of October/beginning of November so we are looking forward to seeing it on the small screen,” Craig said.
“It was a great weekend and even the bands really enjoyed it. A Smyth, who performed on Sunday night, said it was one of the best gigs he’s ever had.
“We’ve spent this week getting the site back in the condition it was given to us and then we’ll digest it all before looking ahead to next year,” he concluded.
