The next big stop on the summer festival schedule takes place this summer solstice weekend when Body & Soul opens its doors once again on the grounds of Ballinlough Castle, Co Westmeath. One of Ireland's most memorable festival experience, Body & Soul has added legions of devoted fans since making its bow in 2010 owing to its unique and compelling blend of great music, food and the overall peaceful, laid back atmosphere.
This year's festival will be headlined by Goldfrapp, Caribou, Gary Numan (and lots more) but what else do you need to know before heading to Westmeath for the weekend? Read on and we'll tell you everything.
Where are we going exactly?
Westmeath, you're going to Westmeath. Ballinlough Castle, to be precise.
If you're travelling by car, follow this steps:
Option 1: From Mullingar direction
Exit N4 and head towards Delvin
Travel through Delvin turning right in Delvin onto the N51
Follow N51 turning left onto the L5525
Enter GATE A on your right
Option 2: From M3/N3/N52 (Clonmellon direction)
Travel M3/N3 North past toll plazas to N3 Kells roundabout
At N3 Kells roundabout take 1st exit N52 towards Clonmellon
In village continue forward N52 towards Delvin
Turn left onto the L5525
Enter GATE A on your left
Option 3: From Athboy direction
Travel on N51 turning right onto the L5525
Enter GATE A on your right
If you're more of bus person, then the next information is for you:
Body&Soul buses depart from Dublin (Custom House Quay). Tickets can be purchased at Custom House Quay and in Ballinlough or here. Bus tickets are €29 return.
When does the whole thing start?
The music will kick off on Friday and the full stage times are here. The campsite will be open from 3pm on Friday.
There'll be food, right?
And how! Body & Soul is famous for having one of the best festival food experiences Ireland has to offer. Whether you're carnivore, veggie or vegan, you'll find something to tickle your taste buds here. There'll also be a dedicated BBQ site.
Tell us some good news about the weather!
It could be a lot worse! Check below (thanks to www.met.ie)
Can I bring booze?
You can. There will be bars on site but you're also permitted to bring 24 cans of beer/cider and two bottles of wine per person (no glass permitted whatsoever) OR 1 750ml bottle of spirits and two bottles of wine.
I'm having such a great time! When do I have to leave?
You'll have to be packed up and ready to go by 2pm on Monday. Deal?
Can I bring my dog?
What? Why would you want to bring your dog? No, don't be ridiculous.
I need my beauty sleep, so what'll I do with all these revelers about the place?
Yes, there is a Quiet Campsite. It'll be signposted once you get to the festival.
Let's talk security...
Each campsite will have its own dedicated security crew, available for assistance 24 hours a day.
Can I come and go as much as I please each day?
It's a free country, you can do as you please!
Can I bring my young ones?
Well, that depends. 13-17 year olds are BANNED from the festival no matter what. However, children under 12 are admitted free of charge when accompanied by a parent (2 children max per ticket holding adult). Visit here for more info.
Anything else?
Ah, the usual festival stuff. Respect your neighbours, don't be a dick and enjoy yourself. And for god's sake, try the falafel wrap - it's mind-blowing.
More info: www.bodyandsoul.ie
