OXEGEN kicked off in style yesterday with some of the world?s biggest artists and a host of celebs joining the 75,000 fans in attendance across the weekend. 1. US hip-hop star Jay-Z was a highlight of the Friday night line up, sending fans wild with a hit packed set. He flew in to Dublin on a private jet accompanied by wife Beyonce, who watched her husband from side of stage.
The rapper thanked fans for coming to see him, saying; ?I feel like Ireland could be my second home… you might be the wildest crowd I?ve ever seen,? adding; ?Oxegen I?ve had a beautiful time with you tonight, you guys have been an amazing crowd?.
Indie heroes Arcade Fire made sure last night?s Main Stage bill ended on a high, playing on until the early hours. Frontman Win Butler told fans ?We?re so excited to be here?!
2. Celebs mingled with fans and enjoyed the inimitable OXEGEN atmosphere. Laura Whitmore hung out in the artist area and joined fans at the main stage for Jay-Z?s set.
Among other stars spotted yesterday were Xpose girls Lisa Cannon and Karen Foster, Westlife?s Mark Feehily, rugby stars, Cian Healy and Jamie Heaslip, Newcastle United stars and former boxing world champ Bernard Dunne.
American rock stars The Black Keys mingled with fans in the VIP area where they played round of crazy golf.
3. Our artist liaison team has also been busy making sure that all our acts special requests are catered for. Some of the more unusual riders so far have been low calorie ?skinny water?, dumbbells, Twister, Vuvuzelas, Ace Of Spades Champagne at over ?300 a bottle!
One artist insisted his room was a chocolate free zone so as not to spoil their diet while another wanted their dressing room maintained at a constant temperature of 70F.
The new OXEGEN branded Dunlop welly has also been a hit with the bands, with JAY-Z requesting 20 pairs of his crew and assistants.
No expense was spared either in OXEGEN?s artist catering area yesterday. Luxury grub included Braised Shank of Lamb with a Thyme & Mint Jus and Escallop of Salmon with Lime and Coriander Salsa.
4. Fans are gearing up for a great day of music and fun with Muse, The Black Eyed Peas, Kasabian, Dizzee Rascal and Florence & The Machine just some of the stars playing today.
Day Tickets are available from the official box office on site at ?99.50 (incl booking fee).
5. IMPORTANT TRAVEL INFORMATION
Day ticket holders on Saturday should go to GOFFs Free Park & Ride situated off Junction 8 of the N7 where they can use the free shuttle service to OXEGEN. The Gardai and Stewards are on hand to provide parking directions and help