According to Electric Picnic organizers, no vapes or cigarettes will be sold at the festival this year, marking a total commercial ban on nicotine inhaling products at the Co Laois event. The policy builds on a 2023 prohibition against single-use disposable vapes, which officials implemented to protect the Stradbally Estate grounds and local wildlife.
Electric Picnic Enforces Total Ban on Vapes and Cigarettes
Festival-goers will not be able to purchase any nicotine inhaling products on-site this year. According to the festival’s official website, “there are no nicotine inhaling products (vapes and cigarettes) being sold at Electric Picnic this year.”
In previous years, a handful of dedicated vendors were permitted to sell cigarettes, while general traders faced strict rules barring them from selling tobacco products. Tobacco kiosks have steadily disappeared from the main arena, while vendors selling vapes and nicotine pouches grew more common.
Did You Know?
Crowds of 80,000 people are expected at the Co Laois festival in Stradbally Estate. The event runs from Friday, 28 August, until Sunday, 30 August, featuring headline acts such as Lewis Capaldi, Gorillaz, CMAT, Zara Larsson, Fontaines D.C., and Amble.
Environmental Concerns and the 2023 Disposable Vape Prohibition
The wider crackdown on vaping at the festival began in 2023, when organizers banned single-use disposable vapes and added them to the prohibited items list. According to the festival website, disposable vapes are “made of a mixed compound of materials which make them very difficult to recycle and hazardous to the environment if not disposed of correctly.”
Organizers noted that the decision was necessary “in order to protect the land the festival site is on” and prevent harm to the animals living at Stradbally Hall. Any single-use vapes brought onto the grounds by attendees are confiscated by security and not returned.
The Rise of Nicotine Pouches and Industry Partnerships
Nicotine pouches—small rectangles containing nicotine, flavorings, and other ingredients placed between the lip and gum—became increasingly popular.
This shift sparked controversy when Velo, a British American Tobacco brand selling tobacco-free nicotine pouches, became an official festival partner for 2025. According to reports, the sponsorship deal drew sharp criticism from the Irish Cancer Society. Velo remains listed as an Electric Picnic partner on the festival’s website.
Meanwhile, new legislation enacted in February bans “temporary or moveable premises,” including pop-up shops and market stalls, from selling vapes and cigarettes. The Journal reported that it has contacted Londis, the official campsite shop for Electric Picnic, along with festival organizers, for clarification on whether nicotine pouches fall under the current sales ban.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bring my own vape to Electric Picnic?
Reusable devices are permitted, but single-use disposable vapes are strictly prohibited, will be confiscated upon discovery, and will not be returned to attendees.
Are cigarettes available for purchase at the festival?
No. According to the festival website, no cigarettes or vapes are being sold at Electric Picnic this year.
What artists are headlining the event?
The lineup includes Lewis Capaldi, Gorillaz, CMAT, Zara Larsson, Fontaines D.C., and Amble.
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