The dodgy chip van and dubious burger stand, the trademarks of so many big Irish outdoors events, are banished from Woodstock demesne this weekend, writes Kevin O'Sullivan
Instead, those attending the two-day musical spectacular in Inistioge, Co Kilkenny, will have on offer sumptuous products of the Slow Food movement - sushi, smoothies, gourmet pies, Irish cheeses and crepes.
"Not a chip pan in sight," declares Marion Gowran of Kilkenny Arts Festival with pride - the 10-day festival opens today.The menu at Woodstock complements, she believes, the musical fare. Patrons are strongly advised to come for a picnic, "a sure way to enjoy a magical summer's evening in the beautiful surroundings of one of Ireland's best-loved gardens". Fingers crossed that the weather is kind.
The food will be unquestionably more healthy than the traditional greasy chips or burger, but she prefers to put the emphasis on "interesting" - a bit like a very good country market but totally dominated by "food to go".
Up to 5,000 people are expected to see the Northern Chamber Orchestra play classical and baroque music tomorrow, including Handel's Music for the Royal Fireworks with pyro- technics from wizards Walk the Plank, already well known to Kilkenny audiences.
Crowds of up to 10,000 are expected for Sunday when the fruits of the Slow Food way will again be available.
Mundy, Jerry Fish and the Mudbug Club and the Hothouse Flowers are the headline acts for a billing featuring both well-known and emerging artists including Declan O'Rourke, Dubliner Mark Geary and Mexican guitar sensations Rodrigo Y Gabriella. Local talent includes Reverie performing with their lead singer Ronan Ryan.
Admission: € 20 seated/ € 7.50 standing/€ 15 family standing (max 2 adults, total 4). Doors open at 3 p.m. (for 4 p.m. concert) on Sunday - admission €25.Buses depart from The Parade, Kilkenny Castle, € 10 return.
