Electric Picnic traffic is expected to build around Stradbally from today, Thursday, 27th August, with Gardaí urging anyone travelling to the festival from Drogheda, Louth, Meath, and elsewhere to plan their journey in advance.
Large volumes of traffic are expected in the Co Laois area through to Monday, 31st August.
Festival-goers are being encouraged to use public transport where possible. Portlaoise and Portarlington are the closest train stations, with shuttle bus services operating between the stations and the festival.
Anyone driving is being asked to follow the official Garda traffic plan, roadside signage and directions from Gardaí rather than relying solely on sat-nav or navigation apps.
Route from Dublin and the North
For motorists travelling to Electric Picnic from Drogheda, Louth, Meath or the wider North East, the Garda traffic plan directs most cars travelling south on the M7 to leave at Junction 16, Ballydavis Interchange.
Drivers should then:
- take the R445 towards Portlaoise
- turn left onto the R425
- continue through Bloomfield Roundabout towards Sheffield, Lamberton Junction and Money Cross
- turn left at Money Cross and follow directions to the designated car parks
There are separate routes for buses, campervans, accessible parking and family camping, so anyone in those categories should check the full traffic plan before travelling.
Gardaí have specifically warned that following electronic navigation devices instead of official traffic directions may lead to delays or problems accessing the festival site.
Car parks open from 2pm
General Electric Picnic car parks open from 2pm today, Thursday, 27th August.
Roadside parking will not be permitted in the area and Gardaí say tow trucks will be used to remove vehicles parked on roadsides.
There will also be no collection point at any festival car park over the weekend.
Anyone collecting or dropping off festival-goers must use the official pick-up and drop-off facility just off the N80 on the Portlaoise side of Stradbally.
Buses and taxis will also use this area.
Gardaí issue road safety reminder
With thousands of people travelling to and from the festival, Gardaí are also asking motorists to take their time and avoid distractions.
Drivers are being reminded to:
- slow down and allow extra time
- make sure everyone in the vehicle is wearing a seatbelt
- keep phones out of reach while driving, including in traffic
- organise music or playlists before setting off
- take a break if feeling tired
Drivers are also being reminded never to drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs, including the morning after drinking.
Garda checkpoints will operate during the weekend, including checks for intoxicated driving.
Anyone travelling to Electric Picnic is advised to check the full Garda traffic plan before leaving and to follow official signs and Garda directions once approaching Stradbally. https://bit.ly/4zDKAGK
An Garda Siochana endeavours to accommodate patrons coming to and from this event to do so as safely and efficiently as possible.
