Buskfest music festival returns to Banbridge in June – The Irish News

The annual Buskfest music festival is set to return to Banbridge, County Down on Saturday 13 June.
The events have been framed as a “celebration of local arts” with live music and street performances taking place. Attendance is free and a large turnout is expected.
A competition where emerging musicians of all ages compete in front of a large crowd for a prize fund of £3,500 will be judged by BBC Radio Ulster presenter Ralph McLean. The event’s organisers have asked for anyone who’s interested to sign up via the Buskfest official website.
Other prize-winning competitions will take place throughout the day.
Mr McLean said: “What makes it so special is the platform it gives for performers of all kinds to step out, be heard, and connect with an audience. Every year I’m blown away by the range and quality of talent on show. Whether you’re a solo singer, a band, or something in between, there’s a space for you here”.
Free family-friendly activities will be taking place in the afternoon to ensure that there is fun for all ages.
The festival’s evening finale will take place in the town centre and will feature a large lineup of talent which includes last year’s winners, the rock band Banshee and other local favourites including The Reiley’s and The Nooks.
The festival is organised by the Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council. It has taken place in Banbridge every year since 2004 and has grown into a staple of the community. It has been credited for allowing local talent to perform in front of hundreds of people and has helped to give opportunities for participants to perform in larger festivals, especially if they are competition winners.
But to most of the town residents, it shows how live music can bring anyone from any background together through the variety of different arts.
The festival’s activities and live music will take place from 2:00PM to 5:00PM followed by the prize give away and evening concert that will finish at 8:30PM.
Registration for performers has now opened in the festival’s official website and will close on 13 June.
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