Camp it up at Ballinlough Castle

The MILK Festival 2010, taking place in the grounds of Ballinlough Castle, Clonmellon at the weekend, claims to be Europe's first ever music festival for the LGBT community. The estate will be transformed into a technicoloured dream world, for one day of outrageous fun, on Saturday 14th August. With over 70 acts to choose from, MILK festival revellers can strut their stuff to some of the hottest acts around, from noon to midnight as a Mardi Gras Style atmosphere takes over. Sophie Ellis Bextor and Alexandra Burke will add some glamour to the main stage, while icons Bananarama and Samantha Fox will join Right Said Fred in bringing it back to the 8Os! The funky sounds of renowned superstar Roisin Murphy and international DJs including Seb Fontaine, Bodyrox and Luciana will have crowds dancing to their beat at the 'Pink Palace'. Comedy sensation, Katherine Lynch will take to the stage of the Alternative Tent, which will play host to some of Ireland's creative community including Von Trash and drag queen, Veda Beaux Reves. As well as top music acts and DJ's, festival revellers can check out the cinema tent and chill out in the luxurious chillout zone, complete with Brazilian cocktail bar. A full range of culinary delights will also be on offer in the Mad Hatters Food Village. In the VIP area enjoy a private bar and top nosh from an exclusive VIP MILK festival menu designed by top chef, Conrad Gallagher. Those looking to stay the night, can camp it up in the designated camping area or for a touch of luxury, reserve a space in the Tipi Camping Village. The boutique Tipis include beds, bedding and unique interior decoration. For more information and a full list of acts log onto www.milk2010.ie Standard tickets are priced at €99.99 and VIP tickets are priced at €125, booking fees apply; tickets are available online at www.milk2010.ie and Ticket Master outlets nationwide www.ticketmaster.ie.