The magic of music returns to the heart of Croí at Electric Picnic 2026 as the much-loved Electric Keys stage makes its highly anticipated comeback to the enchanting surroundings of Stradbally Estate.
Following a hugely successful debut last year, Electric Keys once again opens its doors to musicians of all ages, styles and abilities, offering festivalgoers a unique opportunity to become part of Ireland’s largest music and arts festival. Whether you are a seasoned performer or someone ready to step onto a stage for the very first time, Electric Keys promises an unforgettable platform to share your sound with thousands of Picnickers across the weekend.
Nestled beneath the trees in one of the festival’s most atmospheric settings, Electric Keys is centred around a stand-alone piano and celebrates the spontaneity, creativity and community spirit that make Electric Picnic so special.
Throughout the festival, curated performance slots will showcase carefully selected artists performing everything from classical and folk to contemporary, jazz and experimental sounds. Solo musicians and ensembles of up to four accompanying performers are invited to apply, with performers encouraged to bring along additional instruments including guitars, violins, accordions and more to create truly memorable live moments.
Applications are now officially open, with hopeful performers asked to submit their details alongside a short audio or video clip demonstrating their musical talents before the closing deadline of 11.59pm on 5th June 2026. Due to overwhelming interest following the stage’s debut year, the application window has been extended, giving aspiring performers even more time to perfect their pieces and submit their entries. Successful applicants will be notified by 3rd July ahead of this year’s festival, taking place from 28th to 30th August.
To ensure every performance sounds its very best, the Electric Keys space will once again feature a professional four-channel PA system complete with microphone support for vocals and additional live instruments, allowing artists flexibility in how they present their sets.
Beyond the scheduled performances, the stage will remain open from sunrise to sunset throughout the weekend, inviting spontaneous musical moments as festivalgoers gather to play, sing and collaborate beneath the canopy of Stradbally Estate. Electric Keys continues to celebrate the joy of live music in its purest form, transforming fleeting performances into magical memories that will echo throughout Electric Picnic long after the final note fades.
