Max HeyraudA new festival is set to hit the Wild Atlantic Way in Bundoran, Donegal, as Saltwater Festival unveils its first lineup, promising a blend of electronic, live, and experimental sounds against the stunning backdrop of Ireland’s northwest coastline
Taking place in the vibrant surf town of Bundoran, County Donegal, Saltwater Festival will run over two days, coinciding with the World Surf League Junior Pro event. This emerging coastal festival aims to create a world-class cultural experience that celebrates music, surf culture, and the natural beauty of the Atlantic coast.
The headline acts are a testament to the festival’s bold, curated vision. Leading the bill is Gerd Janson, one of Europe’s most respected selectors and producers. Joining him is KiNK, celebrated internationally for his high-octane live performances that push boundaries and captivate audiences. Adding to the diverse soundscape are UK producer and DJ Elkka, genre-defying Irish artist Black Traffic, Mungo’s HiFi, Kerry’s SHEE, and BBC 6 Music’s Tom Ravenscroft, Holly Lester and more.
Ryan Vail, music producer and advocate of the festival, shared his enthusiasm: “As an artist and producer, Saltwater is the kind of festival I’ve always wanted to see in Ireland, intimate, high-quality, and built with real care. It’s not just about booking names; it’s about creating an experience that feels connected to the place, the people, and the energy of the coast.”
The festival’s venues are carefully chosen to create an intimate and atmospheric experience. The main stages are located across Bundoran, including the Surfers’ Village beside Waterworld and the Rockshore Garden near Madden’s Bar & the Chasing Bull. Headline performances run from 6 pm to 10 pm at Surfers’ Village, with late-night afterparties hosted at Paris Nightclub, where Black Traffic will continue the party into the early hours with a high-spec, raw club atmosphere.
Saltwater isn’t about scale, it’s about intention. We’ve built something rooted in place, driven by music, and shaped by the energy of the Atlantic. Every space, every artist, every detail is chosen with care.”, adds Daniel Browne, one of the Festival organisers.
