18-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Irish Independent
Meath welcomes country stars and Irish Elvis for largest inclusive music and arts festival
The festival, Ablefest, co-founded by Shay Casserley and Kevin Farrell has been running since 2018, and is a non-profit event that highlights the importance of inclusivity and accessibility.
Since 2018, Ablefest has donated thousands to charities in Ireland and are now looking into sponsoring some respite care for a family from the proceeds of the festival.
The festival has partnered with Meath County Council for its sixth year, setting the standard for inclusive celebrations in Ireland and working with other festivals, including TradFest in Dublin and The St Patricks Festival in Killarney, Co. Kerry.
This year's line-up will feature music from Jake Carter, Johnny Brady, Brian Mullen, Catch 22, Matt Leavy, and Irish Elvis, as well as having an array of art and activity stations.
There will also be a multisensory area, holistic therapy and yoga, and staffed sensory pods.
Festival director Kevin Farrell said: 'Ablefest is the first and largest accessible festival in Ireland, where 1.2 million people have a disability, and I am proud to welcome people from all over the country to Fairyhouse for a fantastic event.'
Chief executive of Meath County Council Kieran Kehoe said that the festival showcases Co. Meath as an 'inclusive county for people of all abilities'.
'The excellent line-up and supportive festival environment will ensure Ablefest 2025 will undoubtedly be a great day out for all,' he said.
Everyone is welcome to attend the festival, with tickets available online. One carer (with valid ID) can also attend free of charge with each ticket holder.
The organisers of Ablefest have created a video on their Facebook page, outlining every aspect of what to expect at their festival in order to provide support to any attendees.
