Lightning Seeds, Kate Nash, Ed Byrne, Mark McCabe & more set to take to the stage in Limavady

Thousands of people are expected to attend the award-winning three-day Stendhal Festival.

The annual outdoor event, at Ballymully Cottage Farm in Limavady, kicks off from Friday with music, comedy performances, dances and workshops.

The Lightning Seeds and Kate Nash are among the headline music acts, with homegrown talent such as Joshua Burnside, The Florentinas and Duke Special also set to take to the stage.

While, comedy lovers will be able to enjoy performances by comedians Ed Byrne, Emer Maguire and more.

Last year’s event attracted more than 28,500 visitors, with around 1,300 participants taking part.

It is estimated this year’s festival could generate an economic benefit of approximately £790,000 for the tourism economy.

Since its inception in 2011 the programme has grown to become one of the largest independent music and arts festivals in Northern Ireland.

Festival Director Ross Parkhill says that everything is shaping up to be a memorable celebration.

He said: “The festival has been an incredible journey for everyone involved. There have been massive highs and plenty of lows but to think that we are going to be opening the gates for a fifteenth time this July is something we probably didn’t think we would be doing when we started this all in 2011.”

He added “We have grown from a daydream into the island of Irelands largest and longest running independent festival and we can’t wait to celebrate that with everyone this summer.

“Thank you to everyone who bought tickets before we announced the line-up, your support is as amazing as it is vital to us, the independent festival sector continues to struggle in the current climate and your constant and unwavering support has allowed us to continue flying the flag for independent events and for independent and indigenous artists.”

Stendhal has been boosted this year with renewed support from Tourism Northern Ireland who have welcomed the festival into their portfolio of events which qualify for support under the International Tourism Fund.

Siobhan McGuigan, Head of Events at Tourism NI, said: “Stendhal Festival is a shining example of the authentic festival experience Northern Ireland has to offer.

“Tourism NI is proud to support this vibrant event, which not only draws international talent but also champions our exceptional homegrown artists.

“Visitors to Stendhal will truly ‘Embrace a Giant Spirit’ through a unique, immersive celebration set against the stunning backdrop of this part of Northern Ireland.”

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