Oakfest 2024 - wonderful weekend of music and fun up ahead

By Rebecca Crockett

MUSIC legend Chris Norman is gearing up to headline Oakfest this Saturday as Oakfield Park in Raphoe opens its gates to Donegal’s top family-friendly music festival.

The fun and entertainment starts at 1.30pm with a brilliant programme of musical acts lined up.

Norman will take the stage at 9pm and before all that, festival-goers can enjoy a range of musical talent, from old favourites to new finds, playing throughout the day.

Chris Norman is one of the star attractions this weekend. After finding fame as front man for rock band Smokie, their 1976 hit, ‘Living Next Door to Alice’ reached number 1 in Ireland and earned them international success.

Norman is also known for his 1978 duet ‘Stumblin’ in’ with previous Oakfest headliner Suzi Quatro who graced the stage in 2023. The pair took the rock n’ roll hit to number 4 on the American music charts and can still be found on music charts worldwide today.

Starting the festivities at 2:30 pm The Ephades make their Oakfest debut. The Letterkenny band have been chosen as one of the four final acts for the local hero competition at Highland Radio as part of Irish Music Month.

Other big names coming to Raphoe include English glam rock band MUD at 8pm who fans will know from their 70’s singles, ‘Tiger Feet’ and ‘Dynamite’.

Just before that, Toploader will take the stage at 7 pm. The band, who have fans like Noel Gallagher and Robbie Williams, were made famous by their 2009 cover of ‘Dancing in the Moonlight ‘.

Also performing are British dance group D:ream at 6:15 pm, Strabane favourites The Pontius Pilots at 5 pm, and Oakfest regulars Rory & The Island at 3:30 pm.

On Sunday, ticketholders will be treated to the sounds of ABBA, Taylor Swift, and Queen as tribute bands Arrival! Lauren Porter of So Taylor Swift and Supersonic Queen take to the stage throughout the day.

For more information on all the acts performing across the weekend please visit their website or follow them on Facebook.

A shuttle bus is also available from Sonny McSwine’s/McCafferty’s in Letterkenny at 1 pm and 2 pm, with a return from Oakfest at 11 pm. Alternatively, you can get picked up at The Diamond from 1:45 pm and 2:45 pm.

The cost of transport is €5 per adult each way with free travel for children. For more information or to book your seat, contact McGettigan Travel on 074 9205350.

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