Thousands of teenagers from across Ireland travelled to Longford at the weekend to take part in Ireland’s largest drug and alcohol free music festival for young people. Now in its second year, the hugely popular Foróige HYPE Youth Festival proves that teenagers do not need drugs or alcohol to have a good time.
“HYPE Youth Fest gives teenagers the chance to enjoy a fantastic festival experience in an alcohol and drug free environment. We know that half of Irish teenagers aged 15 and 16 years old report drinking in the past month. This is a shocking statistic and one that needs to be addressed. Teenagers need access to drug and alcohol free events, such as the HYPE Youth Fest, where they can enjoy their favourite music, meet friends and generally have a great time - all in a safe environment – and that is exactly what we are providing today.” said volunteer organiser Ruth McGarry Quinn.
More than 3,500 12 to 18-year-olds enjoyed themselves on the grounds of Longford Rugby Club on Saturday. The Original Rude Boys, Silhouette, Storyfold and AudioPilot all performed at the festival with a DJ set at the end of the evening provided by iRadio DJ Fergal D’Arcy. The festival also boasted disco tents, water waltzing, street entertainers, inflatable theme parks and a diary room. The photos from the day can be found here: http://on.fb.me/13UOesT
