Festival and Event Insurance: What You Need in 2025

As Ireland’s festival and event scene continues to thrive, securing comprehensive insurance coverage becomes increasingly vital. As we approach the summer, Essential Insurances for Festivals becomes a regular search term in Ireland. Whether you’re a festival organiser, security company, vendor, or involved in logistics and transport, understanding festival and event insurance nuances is essential to safeguard your interests.​

Essential Insurances for Festivals

Organising a festival involves numerous components, each presenting unique risks. To ensure a successful and secure event, consider the following essential insurance coverages:​

Public Liability Insurance

This coverage protects against claims arising from injuries or property damage sustained by third parties during your event. Given the public nature of festivals, this insurance is fundamental. Notably, there was a 40% reduction in public liability claim volumes in 2023 compared to 2019, indicating the effectiveness of recent insurance reforms. 

Employer’s Liability Insurance

If you employ staff or volunteers, this insurance covers claims related to injuries or illnesses they might experience while working at your event.​ Read our previous blog here for more details.

Event Cancellation Insurance

Unforeseen circumstances such as extreme weather or other emergencies can lead to event cancellations. This insurance helps recoup financial losses associated with such disruptions.

Equipment Insurance

Festivals often rely on expensive equipment. This coverage protects against loss or damage to essential items like sound systems, lighting, and staging.​

Why You Need Protection

Participating in festivals, whether as an organiser or vendor, exposes you to various risks. Without adequate insurance, you could face significant financial liabilities from accidents, property damage, or unforeseen cancellations. For instance, in the first half of 2024, the median award value for personal injury claims in Ireland was €13,000, highlighting the potential financial impact of claims. ​

Types of Insurance Policies

Understanding the different insurance policies available can help tailor coverage to your specific needs:

• One-Day Event Insurance: Ideal for single-day events, covering liabilities and potential damages.​
• Multi-Day Event Insurance: Designed for events spanning several days, offering extended coverage.
• Annual Event Insurance: Suitable for organisers hosting multiple events throughout the year, providing continuous protection.​
• Vendor Insurance: Tailored for individual vendors, covering their participation in various events.​

Statistics on Insurance Claims and Accidents from Festivals in Ireland in 2024

While specific data on festival-related claims in 2024 is limited, broader trends in Ireland’s insurance landscape provide insight. The Injuries Resolution Board reported a 2% decrease in the number of claims submitted in the first half of 2024 compared to the same period in 2023. Motor Liability claims increased by 2%, while Employer Liability and Public Liability claims decreased by 5% and 8%, respectively.

Additionally, the average award value decreased by 22% from €23,877 in 2020 to €18,722 in the first half of 2024, reflecting the impact of the Personal Injuries Guidelines introduced in April 2021. Source: ​Injuries

Why a Tailored Insurance Package is Best

Every festival and event is unique, with specific risks and requirements. A tailored insurance package ensures comprehensive coverage that aligns with your event’s particular needs. At Phelan Caswell Insurance, we specialise in creating customised insurance solutions for events of all sizes across Ireland. Our expertise ensures that you’re protected against potential liabilities, allowing you to focus on delivering a successful event. ​

As festivals and events continue to be a vibrant part of Ireland’s cultural landscape, securing appropriate insurance coverage is paramount. By understanding the essential insurances, recognising the need for protection, and opting for tailored policies, you can mitigate risks effectively. Partnering with experienced providers like Phelan Caswell Insurance ensures that your event is safeguarded, allowing you to create memorable experiences with confidence.​

For expert advice on Events and Festivals Insurance in Ireland, contact our team today and let us help you safeguard your next big event!

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