Dublin's nightlife booms as 200 events light up the city after dark
Dublin’s night-time economy has seen a major surge in activity over the past year.
This is a result of the launch of Dublin City Council’s Night-Time Economy Strategy, which has recently celebrated its first birthday. By the end of 2025, Dublin City’s Night-Time Advisor will have supported over 200 events that bring the city to life after dark.
This progress report comes as the Dublin by Festival prepares to take over Capel Street and Dame Street this Saturday, with organizers expecting crowds of more than 50,000 people. The festival, backed by the Department of Culture, Communications and Sport is just one of several initiatives that aim to transform Dublin during late-night hours.
Other developments include new safety measures such as the Dublin Nights Help Zone, known as The Nee-Naz, and ongoing work with the National Transport Authority to improve late-night transport.
The Dublin Nights Help Zone, supported by the Department of Justice and Dublin City Council , will operate from 6pm to 10pm on Capel Street. Following this, the service will continue every weekend through the Christmas period in its usual location on Camden Street, running from 10pm to 4am.
Both the Dublin by Night Festival and the Nee-Naw highlight the Night-Time Economy Strategy’s goal of providing low-cost and free cultural activities, while ensuring Dublin is more vibrant, safe and inclusive after dark.
Ray O’Donoghue, Dublin Night-Time Advisor, said: “In just over a year, we’ve shown what’s possible with the right focus on Dublin’s night-time economy—nearly 200 cultural events supported, several safety initiatives delivered, and progress with partners such as the NTA on late-night transport. “
“The Dublin by Night Festival is a strong example of how culture, safety and community can work together to create a thriving city after dark. The Nee-Naw is part of that change—ensuring people feel safe and supported so they can enjoy themselves. With the right support, there’s plenty more we can achieve to make Dublin a vibrant, welcoming city at night.”
Richard Guiney, CEO of Dublin Town, added: “Dublin’s night-time offering has never been stronger, with the Dublin by Night Festival attracting tens of thousands of people into the city. The Nee-Naw is a fantastic example of innovation in action, providing reassurance and practical support so visitors and residents can enjoy the best of what our city has to offer. This kind of partnership is central to making Dublin a world-class destination after dark.”
This content is funded by the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme