Don’t pack away the deck chairs just yet.

Rebecca Storm, Jack O’Rourke and comedian Ross Browne are among the acts tipped to take to the big stage at Fota House and Gardens this September as part of Swing by the Lee.

The alfresco fun will be set in the Bell Field, in front of Fota House and Gardens, with a series of socially distanced concerts taking place on September 11th and 12th, 2021. Ticketholders are invited to bring blankets, chairs and goodies to enjoy too, so it could be a budget-friendly way to get the gang together.

The concerts see a return of two Swing in the Park shows, with more than 20 well-known performers including The Songstress, The Loungeman, Fiona Kennedy, Lorna Moore, Aine Carroll, Gill McGee, violin duo Violini and many more performing hit songs from the swing, jazz and soul era, and a second show including hits from musical theatre and Disney for all the family to enjoy.

“We’ve focused on bringing acts who entertain all the family, in a very relaxed space, with huge distancing available, for people to be able to enjoy the return of live music and comedy.” said festival curator Marguerite O’Connor, of Starlight Entertainment.

“It has been over 18 months since musicians and performers have been able to perform live. We’ve thankfully kept music alive through online shows since lockdown but to be able to do this in a safe, outdoor space, to audiences who have missed going to these shows, is very exciting”.

Catering and treats will be available on site from vendors, and if you don’t own a chair, you can also purchase one as an option when buying your tickets (available from €11.53 here). The location is also accessible by rail, and the Fota House and Gardens are free to wander around in between shows. 

Image: Jack O’Rourke shot by Miki Barlok