Northern Ireland

Host of stars take to the stage in Co Antrim for unique 'festival at home' experience

Singer Nadine Coyle performed at Homefest at Glenarm Castle. Picture by Paul Faith
Singer Nadine Coyle performed at Homefest at Glenarm Castle. Picture by Paul Faith Singer Nadine Coyle performed at Homefest at Glenarm Castle. Picture by Paul Faith

A HOST of stars took to the stage in Co Antrim on Saturday for a unique 'festival at home' experience.

Singers Nadine Coyle and Alexandra Burke as well as country music star Nathan Carter were among the celebrities to perform virtually at this year's Homefest ‘Camp Dalfest at Home’ at Glenarm Castle.

Actor Martin Kemp was also involved in the festival, which was broadcast live from the castle into people's home.

The annual event is normally known as the Daldriada food and music festival, which usually attracts more than 30,000 people to the grounds of the castle every year.

But this year it was rebranded `Homefest: Camp Dalfest', amid the Covid-19 pandemic restrictions in place.

The event, which was hosted by TV presenter Stephen Mulhern, was the digital response to ensure the spirit of the hugely popular festival is kept alive until it returns next year.

All ages were catered for during the show, with children's entertainment including a sing-a-long with Justin, a garden party with The Sooty Show and bedtime stories with Eamonn Holmes.

A massive fireworks display against the backdrop of Glenarm Castle brought Homefest to an end.

Organisers had urged those who still want to enjoy the festival to set up camp sites in their own back gardens.

The festival was broadcast live for for free, but viewers also had the option of purchasing a £20 non-compulsory virtual festival ticket which will go towards the cost of the event.

Those who purchased a virtual ticket were also entered into competition draws.