The Westport Music and Arts Festival, set for this autumn, will now be called “Westival”, with a new date and more diverse attractions.

The festival will take place from October 24 to the 29, in order to avoid the busy summer days and the early school year craze. Conor Wilson, co-founder of MOTHER (Club, Body & Soul and Electric Picnic), moved to Westport to reinvent the event’s brand and add some new flavor to the 42-year-old festival.

“We are delighted to announce our new name, new dates for the festival. I believe that Westival has a broad appeal, and we are looking forward to attracting new audiences with it. The logo represents a modern and progressive festival, and it serves to be instantly recognisable, and uniquely Westport, as it playfully celebrates the beauty of the town overlooked by Croagh Patrick,” Wilson said.

The festival’s venue has changed to an intimate indoor area including the gothic Trinity Church and the modern Town Hall Theatre.

So far one portion of the itinerary has been announced: IDENTITY. This exhibition will feature sculptures that were created utilizing recycled and repurposed material as their medium. The theme reflects Westport’s reputation as one of the leading eco-friendly towns in its area.

Following its long-standing tradition of promoting literary excellence, a poetry competition will be held at the festival as well. Submissions are currently being accepted; the grand prize is €1,000.

There is an open call for all artists, musicians and volunteers who want to participate. Those interested should contact festival administrators. A full programme will be released in early August, showcasing all the international and local acts.