Body and Soul Festival to Take a Break in Pursuit of Innovation

The widely celebrated Body & Soul festival has announced plans to temporarily halt its annual event, embarking on a journey to reimagine its future offerings. This decision comes after fourteen successful years of hosting festival-goers at the serene Ballinlough Castle grounds in County Westmeath.

The festival team conveyed through a statement on their website that they are seeking to 'evolve beyond the current format.' However, they have not yet disclosed specific details on what new experiences will replace the existing festival setup.

Since its inception in 2010, Body & Soul has consistently sold out, attracting attendees with a lineup of diverse performers. Past headliners have included renowned acts such as Róisín Murphy, Princess Nokia, Kojaque, and Caribou.

With the aim of conceptualizing 'something bold and new,' the organizers expressed that a pause in the festival's regular programming is necessary. This hiatus will allow them to fully concentrate on crafting and perfecting their fresh vision for the festival's future.

The festival's pause is seen as an opportunity for the team to 'think bigger' and potentially revolutionize the festival landscape. Despite the event's silence in the upcoming period, the organizers reassure that behind the scenes, intense creative planning is underway. They promise a grand reveal of their revamped concept when it's fully formed and ready for public enjoyment.

In 2019, Body & Soul made a strategic decision to end its 16-year partnership with Electric Picnic, redirecting its focus towards curating a more intimate and community-driven festival experience. This shift underscored their commitment to innovation and setting new benchmarks in the festival scene.

festival, hiatus, innovation