Young Laois Swifties to flock to Portlaoise summer festival

A Laois festival packed with something for all across one summer weekend in Portlaoise is promised by the organisers of the Old Fort Quarter Festival, which returns for its 2025 instalment.

Now a staple on the Laois summer events calendar, the festival organisers promise to bring together the very best of talent in Laois and beyond - from top-tier music and pop culture to hands-on fun, creative performances, and historical discovery.

They say the Old Fort Festival is set to light up Portlaoise from Friday to Sunday, June 27 to 29, offering a weekend "bursting with live music, family-friendly activities, rich local heritage, and community celebration".

The Old Fort team are promising three nights of live music "you won’t want to miss" at the Fort Outdoor Performance & Events Space in stunning surrounds of Fort Protector.

Friday night features the returning popular acts The Whistlin’ Donkeys with The Dooley Brothers. Dan McCabe & Band followed by the legendary Aslan star on Saturday night. MORE BELOW PICTURE.

Pictured: The Dooley Brothers are back again. Pic: Alf Harvey

Rounding out the weekend entertainment on Sunday night are festival favourites from Portlaoise Transmitter and Smash Hits!

On Sunday afternoon, the festival welcomes Taylor Switch ‘The Eras Be Grand Tour’, which the organisers say will be perfect for younger fans and families. Tickets are priced at €25, free for accompanying adults who have a weekend pass.

Expect chart-topping hits and a fun, vibrant performance to bring the crowd together.

Sunday also features a live band stage on Lower Main Street that will showcase local artists and performers.

Beyond the music, Old Fort team invite you to explore almost 500 years of history in Portlaoise, centred on the Fort Protector with so much free activities spread throughout the town.

The Festival features medieval heritage displays and guided tours by Laois Heritage Society, exploring the rich history of Portlaoise and the Old Fort Quarter. MORE BELOW PICTURE.

Pictured: St Francis School staff enjoy the 2024 festival. Pic: Alf Harvey

Celtic Con returns this year to the Dunamaise Arts Centre on Saturday (12–5pm). It promises to bring the vibrant world of comics, sci-fi, fantasy, gaming, and anime to life in Portlaoise.

Another attraction is the artisan craft and food market on Sunday, with the team promising the best creators from Laois and beyond.

The festival also features street performers who they say will bring added colour and surprise to the streets. Portlaoise Library will also host a series of community events on Saturday.

Another aspect of the day will be community and sports groups running interactive games and challenges for all ages.

Thanks to Laois Climate Action, the festival team say the event will continue its commitment to sustainability with eco-friendly practices throughout the weekend. This will include waste reduction and green infrastructure initiatives.

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The Old Fort Quarter Festival Committee extend sincere thanks to all our supporters and sponsors who make the event possible. These include: Laois County Council, Dunamaise Arts Centre, Laois Heritage Society, Creative Ireland Laois, Laois Libraries, LOETB, Downtown Portlaoise, Bord Na Móna, Diageo, Elaine Dunne Solicitors, Kavanaghs Bar and Laois Partnership Company. MORE BELOW PICTURE.

Pictured: Enjoying the Festival in 2024. Pic: Alf Harvey

For tickets, updates, and full event details, visit the main festival website: https://oldfortquarter.com/

You can also follow the Old Fort Quarter Festival on social media for all the latest announcements, behind-the-scenes sneak peeks, and exclusive content.

The festival team invite you to Portlaoise for an unforgettable celebration so they want you to mark your calendars now – June 27th to 29th!

The weekend concerts are ticketed only and strictly for over 18s. Nightly tickets cost €40 (Friday and Saturday) and €35 (Sunday). Early bird weekend passes will cost €75, with the full price €95.

Tickets are on sale from 1 pm on Friday, May 9, via the Dunamaise Arts Centre Box Office or online at www.oldfortquarter.com