Homefest Preview, this happening is happening, Saturday, July 18th from 1pm
By Conor O’Neill
You’ve had the kids at home for what seems like a God-forsaken-lifetime, and now they’re on holidays, yes, I do hear mass weeping… the Silly Season is over and the weather forecast gives it to lash down for the foreseeable.
Well, here’s a solution with no wellies needed, no marathon car journeys with the young-uns repeatedly asking, ‘are we there yet?’ and all within the confines of your own home.
2020’s family friendly HOMEfest ‘Camp Dalfest at Home’ promises to bring a bit of festie fun to both young and old alike. Traditionally held at Glenarm Castle, the organisers this year are following the route of many creatives to try and keep the collective sanity ticking along for just a few hours at a time.
When, where, how, I hear you ask? Well, with safety sort of possible, artists are turning up to Glenarm. Popular TV presenter, Stephen Mulhern, will be introducing music acts from both across the Irish Sea and a few more home-grown talents. The line-up includes the well knowns such as Alexandra Burke, Derry’s own Nadine Coyle, Nathan Carter, and to swoon mothers’ hearts, 80s Pat Sharp with his records in tow for a DJ set completes the line-up.
For those more off the beaten track, local talent includes the likes of Dea Matrona, Anna’s Number and Songbirds.
So what to entertain the children? Kids’ TV megastar Justin will be there to entertain as with our very own Eamonn Holmes with Bedtime Stories and my favourite 80s puppet Sootie – well, Sweep was, but he will be making an appearance. Of course, a few surprises also help. HOMEfest have a few extras they’re not giving away, so expect a few non-listed to make appearances here and there.
Most of the line-up is shown off proud on loud on the big colourful banner illustrating this piece.
What is definite is a bombastic, fantastic fireworks display to end the evening.
Festival director, Nigel Campbell said: “The past few months have been an incredibly challenging time for everyone, and while it is disappointing that we cannot welcome festival goers to the site this year, we are still very keen to stage a safe festival for everyone to enjoy.
“We are delighted to announce our first online festival, HOMEfest ‘Camp at Dalfest at Home’ in partnership with Mid and east Antrim Borough Council. We hope everyone will join us from the safety of their own homes as wee broadcast live on a digital platform for the first time ever!
“We wold like to thank our partners, Mid and East Antrim Council, all our sponsors and especially to everyone who has supported us over the years.”
The event is free, though to you out there who can afford and are willing to donate a non-compulsory mere 20 quid: virtual ticket buyers will be excited to know that during the event they’ll be entered into competitions during the event.
Official media partners include: Downtown Radio; Downtown Country and Cool FM.
Charity partners include Age NI and the Northern Ireland Children’s Hospice.
HOMEfest runs on Saturday July 18th from 1pm
For further details visit: http://www.dalriadafest.co.uk or dalsiadofestivalFacebook for Twitter and Instagram #DALFEST
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