Northern Ireland is set to get its first socially distanced music festival this August. Unlocked will take place over two weekends (August 21-22, then again on 28-29) and will be the first event of its kind in the country.
Devised by the organisers of Stendhal Festival, Unlocked’s plans are subject to the government’s policy on mass gatherings in August. However, according to proposals on its website, the idea is to have a capacity of between 500 and 1000 people on a site across 25 acres of land, with temperature checks on entry and distancing across the festival, including bars and campsites.
A comprehensive guide to social distancing has been outlined by the festival on its website, with plans for alcohol limits to prevent people from accidentally breaking distance, regular toilet cleaning to minimise any potential virus spread, and limits on who can camp in any given tent.
All in all, it’s certainly a different way of looking at festivals, though it’s hard to say right now whether it’ll be a fun one. Tickets will be available online from July 4, although no line-up has currently been announced.