Here are the most frequently asked questions but if you need any more detail follow the links or email office@hebceltfest.com
The festival runs for four days, can I buy one ticket that covers all?
This is not a single venue event so you cannot buy one ticket that covers all events.
The festival starts on Wednesday with a concert in An Lanntair. This venue hosts concerts over the four days (Wed-Sat). There are also events held in other venues around the island.
The festival arena opens on Thursday evening and runs from 7pm that day and from 2pm on Friday / Saturday. You can purchase a day ticket or a main arena weekend ticket to cover this venue.
The timings of events between venues overlap so you may have to make a choice between them.
There are also late night events for which you can buy a ticket.
There are a range of activities and concerts both in and out of town, some of which are free to access.
See town venues and community venues.
What does a weekend ticket cover?
You can save cash with an arena weekend ticket – this would cover all acts appearing across the three stages in the festival arena from Thursday to Saturday.
Concessions (or discounts) are available but there are limits on the number of these tickets so get them early. Full details from ticket page.
It is essential that when collecting tickets that you bring the booking reference number with you. This is supplied with your order. If asking a friend or relative to pick up tickets then you will need to supply them with written authorisation.
What time does the arena open?
'Doors' open at 6.30pm on Thursday night and from 1.30pm on Friday and Saturday. Entertainment starts at 7pm on Thursday night and from 2pm over Friday and Saturday. Music programme ends approximately 11.30pm each evening. It can run over and is all dependant on encores etc.
Gates are closed for last admittance at 10pm sharp each night. Strictly no admittance after this time regardless of whether you have a ticket.
Can I take my own seat to the main arena?
We do provide some occasional seating around the festival arena but you are also permitted to take your own seating if required. However, do not locate seats in walkways or within the main structures during busy periods as they can be a trip hazard. Please do not be offended if you are asked to move; our security personnel are there to ensure the safety of all.
Details on access and seating for disabled patrons (and so much more).
Can I leave the arena and come back again?
Yes of course you can. Ensure wristbands are kept on to re-enter the festival site but you will need to return before 10pm when the gates are closed. All under 18s must be accompanied by an adult to re-enter.
Is there food available?
There is a catering area within the festival arena offering a wide range of food, soft drinks, teas and coffee, so 'if you've not had your tea' then you can get it there!
Full bar facilities, soft drinks and other refreshments are available onsite. Please do not attempt to take alcohol with you to the main arena - it will be confiscated.
You are permitted to take your own food into the festival arena with you together with soft drinks which must be in sealed containers.
Can I take my dog into the festival?
Sorry, no animals with the exception of registered assistance dogs are permitted within festival venues.
Is camping included in my ticket?
We cannot provide camping with tickets but there are several campsites around the island the nearest being at Laxdale Holiday Park. Read more details on accommodation.
How do I get to the festival?
See our Travel information page for more information.
What are the late night activities?
There are ceilidh dances and / or festival clubs held each night over Wednesday – Saturday. Door opening times vary from 10.30pm. The programme for these events may include ceilidh dances or a series of performance spots by artists from across the festival programme so you may get the opportunity to see someone you missed or catch that act you really wanted to see again. Exact details on these programmes will be publicised closer to the festival.
Separate tickets are required for these events and due to venue limitations tickets will be in high demand.
Venues have full bar facilities and offer late night snacks.
Opening hours vary subject to local licensing laws and strictly over 18s only.
Recommended reading for all arena festival goers covering all safety aspects and terms and conditions of sale from here.