Lacken Strand sets the scene for thousands of teens

THE drug and alcohol-free music festival Band on the Strand returns for its 10th anniversary to Lacken Strand in Mayo tomorrow (Saturday).

Some 2,000 young people, from all over Ireland, will attend the teen beach event, organised by Ireland’s leading youth organisation Foróige.

Sean Campbell, CEO of Foróige, said: “This event has been organised entirely by volunteers and young people, and the resulting festival which brings together amazing acts like The Frank & Walters, Le Galaxie and much more, is a testament to what can be achieved through strong community spirit.

It’s set to be a fantastic spectacle, with Rocket Pyrotechnics doing fireworks, Inferno putting on a fire show, a giant air balloon, inflatable attractions and the large main stage set up on the beach.

For 10 years now Band on the Strand has allowed young people to socialise, have fun, and enjoy music in an unbelievable setting, and even more importantly in a safe and healthy environment.

This event is about celebrating young people, it’s about encouraging them to act responsibly in their lives and it’s about coming together as a community and supporting their journey which is all too often a difficult one.

I want to thank the volunteers for the immense amount of work that has gone into organising this event, and for facilitating the work of Foróige with young people, empowering them to be the best that they can be.”