The 7 Hills Blues Fest is set to energise Armagh City once again this summer, offering an immersive and vibrant experience for blues enthusiasts, families, and culture seekers.

The festival will run from Friday, August 1st to Sunday, August 3rd, featuring over 40 free gigs spread across 15 venues, highlighting the best in local, national, and international blues and roots music.

A significant aspect of this year's festival is its continued role as a platform for discovering and celebrating fresh talent. The line-up includes exciting new artists such as 2024 Buskfest winners Banshee, making their 7 Hills debut, and the return of 17-year-old guitar sensation Zac Mac.

Banshee expressed their excitement: "Being part of 7 Hills is a great chance for us to share our music with more people. The festival is special because it supports new artists like us while also bringing in well-known musicians. Winning last year's Buskfest meant a lot and this is another exciting step for our band and a way to meet others who love this kind of music. We're really happy to be part of a festival that brings everyone together to enjoy live music and help artists grow." Since its inception, 7 Hills has celebrated Armagh's rich musical heritage. This year's roster boasts major names in the blues scene, including vocalist Clara Rose, the legendary Rob Strong (often hailed as Ireland's Godfather of Soul), fan favorites Crow Black Chicken, the Pat McManus Band, and acclaimed acts such as Ben Reel and the Ronnie Greer Trio. Other returning artists include Led Hedley, Chris Taplin Band, Rubber Plants, and Cork's Two Time Polka. Local talent will also be showcased with performances from Villiers and the Villains, Courtnay Giffin, 4 Shuck Men, and Freedom 35s.

Lord Mayor of Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon, Councillor Sarah Duffy, remarked, "7 Hills Blues Fest has grown into one of the most anticipated cultural events in our region, boosting footfall and benefiting our local traders. It offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich heritage of blues and roots music while exploring the charm and vibrancy of Armagh City. Whether you are a passionate music lover, a family seeking quality entertainment, or someone eager to experience our city's culture, 7 Hills has something for everyone. We look forward to welcoming everyone to this flagship event that truly connects us all through the power of music and community."

Rob Strong added: "Playing here is always a highlight of the summer for me – it's a place where the spirit of blues music truly comes alive. The city's intimate venues create a unique connection between artists and audiences, making every performance feel personal. 7 Hills not only honours the rich traditions of blues but also pushes the music forward, keeping it fresh and exciting."

Organised by Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council, the festival is a major annual event attracting hundreds of visitors. The weekend will kick off with lunchtime performances on the bandstand, followed by activities throughout the weekend including the MD Rafferty Music School Live Lounge, free street acts, face painting, and balloon modelling. Adding to the excitement, Saturday will feature an artisan market at the Shambles in the city centre, offering a wide range of treats, eats, and more, creating a fun-filled program for all ages.

For more information visit visitarmagh.com/7hills