No nudity at erotic festival say organisers

Organisers of an erotic festival in Northern Ireland have said there will be no public nudity or public sexual activity.
Narrow Water CastleNarrow Water Castle
Narrow Water Castle

Bliss Ireland said the event at Narrow Water Castle in Co Down would also be alcohol and drugs-free.

The plans have been strongly criticised by one of the castle’s trustees.

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Bliss Ireland tweeted: “There is no public nudity nor sexual activity at the Bliss Festival and all our events are strictly over 18 and alcohol and drug free.

“Having the Bliss Festival alcohol and drug-free is really important, it allows those in addiction recovery to attend - important in Ireland.

“It is truly a beautiful event, more about intimacy, connection and relationship than what is being portrayed. Consent is a fundamental cornerstone of what we do at Bliss Festival.”

A “sexual freedom” event including hot tubs, massage, rituals, performances and ceremonies is proposed for next month within the grand grounds overlooking Carlingford Lough.

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Bliss Ireland said it hired the venue intending to promote sexual health and pleasure in mind, body and spirit and added that any sex acts would be private.

The Bliss Ireland website said it organises events which aim to foster and promote sexual freedom, health and pleasure in mind, body and spirit.

“The summer festival offers workshops, talks, presentations, performances, rituals, ceremonies, massage and other wellness experiences, delicious food, art, entertainment and much more at a venue immersed in natural beauty for approximately 400 people - all over the age of 18 are welcome irrespective of sexual orientation, gender, relationship status, religious or spiritual beliefs or practices, ability and age.

“All Bliss Ireland events are free from the recreational use of drugs and alcohol.”