If you’re trying to decide which destination to celebrate New Year’s eve, look no further than the city that really knows the meaning of the craic, Dublin. To round off the year, Ireland’s capital hosts a three day festival and welcomes visitors as well as locals with open arms – they have been voted top 5 of the friendliest cities in the world after all. Between December 30th and January 1st the city is alive with parades, pyrotechnics, magic shows and exclusive concerts, with almost all events offering free admission. New Year’s eve in Dublin is starting to sound like the plan right? Read on for more reasons…
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The New Year’s Festival
Why have just one countdown when you can have three? That’s the sentiment, and one very good reason why you should spend New Year's eve in Dublin. All spectacular to watch, Custom House, one of Dublin’s most iconic landmarks, takes centre stage for bringing in the New Year with pyrotechnic and laser shows illuminating the river and the sky. The Liffey Lights Midnight Moment is a light and music show held twice in the evening, a matinee performance for little ones to enjoy, then the real deal starting at 11.30pm. Lastly, the Countdown Concert, an unforgettable gig with a line-up including Walking on Cars, Ash, Aimee and Lisa McHugh planned for 2019.
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New Year’s Day Concert
Celebrating New Year’s eve in Dublin doesn’t finish at midnight. On 1st January the New Year’s Day Concert keeps the party going with family-friendly events in Temple Bar. Some of Ireland’s finest musicians turn out to perform along with pop up street entertainment to keep all the members of the family in the festival spirit.
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Procession of Light
One of the highlights of New Year’s Eve in Dublin is the Procession of Light, a magical parade that leaves you feeling wowed. Follow the journey and watch the streets of Dublin dance in colour, or better still, grab a lantern and join the spectacle. A feast for the senses, you’ll be dazzled by dramatic costumes and curious performances. It begins at St. Stephen’s Green, travels through Temple Bar and ends towards Dublin Castle.
While a three day celebration is reason enough to spend New year’s eve in Dublin, we’ve not yet even mentioned the corners of this city waiting to be discovered. From pub hopping Temple Bar to wandering the impressive gardens at St. Stephen’s Green and discovering the Book of Kells at Trinity College. When the New Year festivities are over, hop on a Big Bus tour and let our live guides bring this city to life for you.
