Armagh’s popular 7 Hills Blues Fest will return this August with yet another spectacular line-up of blues events which will take place across four jam-packed days.
The exciting schedule, which has just been announced, will welcome top class international acts to the city from Thursday 7th August through to Sunday 10th August.
Now in its fourth year, the 7 Hills Blues Fest has become an established and much anticipated event among the people of Armagh and visitors from much further afield.
This year’s festival will welcome international acts from across Europe, USA and beyond, as well as many local bands, treating music fans to a fantastic programme of events not to be missed.
The schedule will include 50 free gigs across various venues in the city, ensuring everyone can join the fun.
The big line up will see over 40 bands such as Ain’t Misbehavin’, Andy Whittaker and Soul Truth, Ben Reel Band, Grainne Duffy and Mark Braidner, all take to the stage in a variety of events including the ‘big ticket’ event and grand finale by Dave Specter’s blues band.
The internationally renowned band, which hails from Chicago, will play exclusively at the Armagh City Hotel.
The gig is the band’s first ever performance in Ireland, and they’re set to wow the crowds for one night only, officially drawing the festival to a close.
The city will also play host to a clutch of fantastic free events for families on the hunt for outdoor summer fun, with the return of the Bluez 4 Kidz workshop by the sensational Crow Katz, Picnic in the Palace demesne, graffiti artist Dermot McConaghy will also return as well as the outdoor festival in the Shambles Yard.
City centre visitors who would like to shop while listening to the great music can get themselves down to the Shambles Market, Mall Shopping Centre, Market Square andArt on the rails and – all of which will host a shopping experience with a difference.
Many of Armagh’s fabulous cafes and restaurants in Armagh will also have artists playing as part of the weekend-long event, so visitors are advised to check out the gig guide and book their table early.
Speaking ahead of the annual event, Lord Mayor, Cathy Rafferty, said: “I’m delighted to welcome back this fantastic summer event to Armagh city for the fourth year in a row. Each year, the festival goes from strength to strength and it’s very much looked forward to by local people and visitors alike, who come along to enjoy the wonderful atmosphere and hospitality that Armagh has to offer.
“With over 40 bands and more than 50 free gigs, including some fantastic fringe events, there’s something for everyone to enjoy whether you’re a seasoned blues fan or simply enjoy the great atmosphere live music offers. I’m looking forward to seeing crowds of people and welcoming visitors to our city for yet another successful Blues Fest.”
For more information visit www.armagh.co.uk/7hills follow 7 Hills Blues Fest on Facebook or call the Armagh Tourist Information Centre for more details 028 3752 1800.
