Countdown: The Top Ten Independent Music Festivals in Ireland - Number 8, 7 & 6

Continuing my countdown of the top ten independent music festivals in Ireland this summer. You can read part one (numbers 10 and 9) here: http://bit.ly/9gQT9x

Anyway on with today's entries:

8. The Castlebar Blues Festival
Where? Castlebar Town
When? June 4th to 7th
Why? Ireland's best blues festival is in its 18th year - the longest running blues festival in the country. This year sees headline performances from Imelda May, Willie Nelson and Status Quo, alongside a well established series of workshops, demos and CD and record fairs designed to encourage the youth of the festival to fall in love with the blues and keep the tradition alive. And best of all - the live shows are free.
More Information available at http://www.castlebarblues.com/2010.blues.festival.html

7. Athlone Music Festival
Where? Athlone Town Football Club in Athlone Town
When? Saturday 31st July and Sunday 1st August
Why? A pretty decent mix of acts grace Athlone this year: among them are Sharon Shannon & The Big Band (feat. Imelda May & Mundy), The Undertones, Big Generator, Heathers, Hazel O'Connor & The Subterraneans (feat. Clare Hines) and more. This year will see two big marquees and a variety of musical, comedy and cabaret acts. Tickets are reasonably priced too - €50 for over 16 year olds, €30 for under 16s.
More Information available at http://www.athlonemusicfestival.com/ while tickets are available from http://www.ticketmaster.ie/Athlone-Music-Festival-tickets/artist/1035078, as well as various outlets in Athlone and Tullamore.

6. Knockanstockan Music Festival
Where? Blessington Lakes, Co. Wicklow
When? July 23rd to 25th
Why? Now in it's fourth year, Knockantockan promises to be bigger and better than ever before with three stages and over 100 acts. The festival is renowned for its relaxed vibe and is completely run by volunteers. As well as that, free camping is offered, while dozens of underground and unsigned acts get the chance to perform each year. The musical highlights this year are And So i Watch You From Afar, Prairie Dawgs, Mute Fish, The Rye, Hot Sprockets and Alright The Captain.
More Information is available at http://www.knockanstockan.ie/ and tickets, priced at €75 are available at http://www.knockanstockan.ie/tickets/

Tomorrow will see part three in the countdown. It will be numbers 5 and 4, while the top 3 will then be counted down separately with more info on each to be given. Hope you're enjoying it so far!