Electric Picnic 2022: Triumphant return as rain plays weekend-long set

Rain, mud, and more rain was the theme of this year’s Electric Picnic festival as more than 70,000 people descended on Stradbally, Co. Laois for the first time since 2019.

With an extended capacity and new layout, the 2022 version of the festival was the largest in its history but will be remembered as one of the wettest.

A dry Friday and Sunday afternoon sandwiched bouts of torrential downpours throughout the weekend which led to thousands of ponchos and welly boots make their summer debut.

However, the rain did little to dampen the spirits of the of the revelers who basked in the return of live sweaty music, late-night forest raves, and campside craic.

The festival was also graced with fantastic performances from dozens of artists, with many in fine form.

Aussie psych-rock band Tame Impala were a particular highlight on the Saturday headline slot while modern indie-rock legends Arctic Monkeys played a stomper of a set on a rain-laden Sunday evening.

Pixies, Khruangbin, CMAT, Disclosure, and Kneecap were also the pick of a standout bunch of memorable performances throughout the weekend.

Welcome back, Picnic.

The Coronas performed on the Main Stage on Sunday afternoon in front of an eager and thankfully dry crowd.

The Apres Ski DJ area was a treat for those who enjoy a winter-themed party.

Pixies played a hit-filled set in Electric Arena on Friday evening.

Sean Byrne and Darragh Bermingham from south Dublin enjoy the offerings in the Trailer Park area.

Fontaines D.C. played to a boisterous crowd on Friday night.

The sun finally came out on Sunday afternoon as festival goers braved the mud in areas such as Salty Dog.