Thousands of music, Mayo and Glen Hansard fans descend on All Together Now

This August bank holiday weekend, the All Together Now festival once again transformed Waterford into a vibrant hub for music enthusiasts, drawing a crowd estimated at 35,000. The event, known for its eclectic lineup, featured headline performances from Britpop legends Pulp, Belfast’s politically charged hip-hop trio Kneecap, and the renowned electronic duo Disclosure.

Festivalgoers from across Ireland and beyond converged on the site, many having anticipated the weekend for months. Among the attendees was Enda Bourke, a fan from Mayo, who contemplated relinquishing his ticket due to his county’s historic football victory shortly before the festival began. Still, he ultimately chose to attend, balancing his sporting loyalties with his passion for live music.

The festival atmosphere was marked by a mix of celebration and community spirit. Juliette Coyne, a 25-year-old festival newcomer celebrating her birthday, described the event as a welcome respite from daily routines and a chance to relax with friends amidst the music. Despite minor logistical challenges like campsite accessibility, attendees praised the overall organization and accessibility of the festival, with many traveling by car and finding the journey manageable.

All Together Now also attracted families, highlighting its broad appeal across age groups. For instance, siblings Goldie and Giles Murray from Enniskillen attended the festival as a special gift, eager to experience performances by artists such as Kneecap and sample the diverse culinary options available onsite.

Experienced festival attendees shared practical insights for navigating the busy grounds. Molly Power, a veteran of the event, emphasized the importance of establishing clear meeting points with friends, employing creative markers like distinctive flags and soft toys to reunite after exploring the sprawling site.

The festival also carried a note of tribute, with attendees reflecting on the recent passing of celebrated Irish musician Glen Hansard. Fans from various parts of the country expressed hopes for commemorations in his honor during the weekend’s performances.

Musically, the festival showcased a range of genres, from Pulp’s Britpop anthems to Kneecap’s sharp, socially conscious lyrics and Disclosure’s innovative electronic beats. This diversity underscored All Together Now’s reputation as a platform for both established acts and emerging artists, fostering a dynamic cultural exchange.

While the festival’s operational aspects, including stage scheduling and onsite facilities, were generally well-received, some attendees noted room for improvement in areas such as campsite amenities. Nonetheless, the overall consensus painted All Together Now as a highlight of Ireland’s summer music calendar, offering a rich blend of artistry and communal experience.

As the event concluded, reflections centered on its capacity to unite disparate audiences through a shared love of music. The festival’s ongoing success in attracting large, diverse crowds signals its growing significance within the national cultural landscape, reinforcing Waterford’s status as a key destination for live music enthusiasts.

Details regarding future iterations of the festival remain forthcoming, though the weekend’s turnout and enthusiastic reception suggest that All Together Now will continue to be a staple of Ireland’s vibrant festival scene.