Going to Sea Sessions this weekend? Here’s what to expect 

Festival season came back with a bang earlier this month when the likes of Forbidden Fruit, AVA Festival and Sligo’s Wild Roots ushered music-lovers inside their hallowed gates for the first time in over two years. 

Heralding a return to live music and the carefree outdoor festivities that used to constitute summer in Ireland, patrons donned their finest fancies (and wellies) as they trudged through the muck to see their favourite performers. Next on the comeback list? Sea Sessions which will light up the beachy Donegal town of Bundoran this weekend. 

A number of big acts will take to the stage over the course of the weekend, including performers such as Tinie Tempah, Kodaline, Basement Jaxx, The Academic, Fia Moon, Joel Corry, Wyvern Lingo and Gemmy Dunleavy amongst others. T

Aside from the music… what else can festival-goers expect? Below are some highlights. 

Barefoot Beach Sports

The incredibly popular Barefoot Beach Sports, sponsored by Barefoot Wine, will feature a mix of different activities ranging from volleyball to soccer, rugby, frisbee and yoga too. Open to all Sea Sessions attendees (from teams to individuals), it’s all about having a laugh so don’t worry about actually being *good* at any of the above. 

All proceeds raised will go to charity partners and event hosts Liquid Therapy, a multi-award-winning charity with its base in South Donegal who provide a supported environment that enables young people to experience the physical and therapeutic benefits of the surf and ocean, through child-led and individually tailored programs. 

Tag rugby and soccer 

The tag rugby and soccer events run on the Saturday of the festival on the Surfers’ Village beside Waterworld – just a five-minute walk from the festival site. Each tournament runs on a knockout format with the two highest-scoring teams progressing on to the second round. Prizes include tickets for Sea Sessions 2023. 

Beach volleyball

Hosted by Beach Volleyball Ireland, they’ll be running a mixture of display games and workshops aimed at teaching people the basics of the sport. All the action will take place on the main beach in Bundoran, right in front of the festival site. There will also be open courts for those of you who want to give it a go – just head to the main beach area on Saturday to register.

Beach frisbee

Display games and workshops will take place on the main beach on Saturday with a social competition scheduled for the Sunday. You can register your interest with the crew who will be setting up on the main beach from 11am on Saturday morning.

Beach yoga

A calming beach yoga session will also take place on the main beach (between Lifeguard flags). Hosted by a qualified yoga instructor, registration starts at 10:30am with sessions running from 11am to 12noon. Be sure to bring your own mat or towel. 

What to do in Bundoran

Surfing at Tullan Strand

Arguably one of the most popular things to do in Bundoran, surfing at Tullan Strand is a favourite with both locals and visitors alike. Several surf schools operate in the area who will provide you with both the equipment and the know-how you need to catch a wave. 

Fish and chips from Mr T’s

Fish and chips by the sea? It may not be groundbreaking but it’s highly recommended. Mr T’s may not look like much from the outside, but it’s a Bundoran institution… who are we to argue?

Bird’s eye view of Bundoran

Close to the main beach, you’ll find the Adventure Park, one of Bundoran’s most recognisable sights. Boasting quite an impressive array of different rides and attractions – from bumper cars to go-karts – it’s the Ferris wheel that really steals the show. Giving you uninterrupted views of Donegal Bay (and the festival site below), it’s the perfect place to just take a breath and drink it all in. 

Other info

Stage times

Dos/don’ts

Everything else you need to know ahead of the festival is included in this Instagram carousel so be sure to give it a quick once over before you get on the road.