As 2018 winds down to a close, it’s time to put down that selection box and break out those dancing shoes.
There are a host of great gigs and events happening around the country this New Year’s Eve – and we’ve laid out the pick of the bunch below.
Turning Pirate Mixtape, Vicar Street, Dublin.
Over the past nine years, Vicar Street’s Turning Pirate Mixtape has welcomed some of Ireland’s most loved musicians to the New Year’s stage – and this year is no different.
With the likes of Wallis Bird, Cathy Davey and Booka Brass set to join a host of others alongside the star-studded house band, look no further for your final holiday hooley.
Whelans, Dublin.
Whelans has plenty to offer this year with former Republic of Loose front man Mik Pyro offering up a sneak peak at his upcoming solo album – alongside the hits from the band’s back-catalogue.
Upstairs meanwhile, there is the opportunity to catch Dublin-based Orchid Collective, following their impressive showing at Other Voices.
3Countdown
This year’s 3Coundown Concert at Customs House Quay will welcome Dublin’s platinum selling artist Gavin James. Support on the night will come from Irish American folk duo Hudson Taylor and, Wild Youth and Inhaler.
Tickets priced at €29.90 include entry to the Liffey Lights Midnight event, ringing in the New Year from 11:30pm with lights, drums, lasers and DJs.
Midas Touch, Golden Palace Party, Loughcrew House
This BYOB event promises to honour the women of Ireland – hailing 2018 as the year “Irish women stood tall, proud, and strengthened each other’s battles.”
The night celebrates Hatshepsut, the Queen who became King in ancient Egyptian times and with gold, glitter and top tunes from the likes of AE Mak and Reveller on offer, what better way to close out the year?
Tickets from €45 include bus transfer to the venue from Mountjoy Square.
NYE Ball at the Sugar Club
The NYE Ball at the Sugar Club in Dublin boasts performances from Arveene, Aoife Nic Ceanna and Kelly Ann Byrne.
One Night Stand
Dublin’s Powerscourt Centre fully opens its doors for this annual New Year’s extravaganza. With acts like Enzo Siragusa and East End Dubs joining some of Dublin’s finest this one is a must for anyone who wants to dance their way into 2019.
New Years Eve at The Shaw
Berlin-based Daniel Wang will join DJ Conor L and a range of other Bodytonic names for a kicking night of tunes and tasty tracks at Dublin’s Bernard Shaw.
Hothouse Flowers, Cork Opera House
The Hothouse Flowers are taking to the stage in the Cork Opera House to showcase new material from their new album, ‘Lets Do This Thing’ – alongside the hits from right across their career.
Support on the night from Clare Sands & Gerald Ahern plus a DJ set from Cork RedFM's Colm O' Sullivan.
Róisín Dubh NYE Party, Galway
Irish electronic duo Le Boom will be joined by Paddy Hanna, Kneecap and Bob Skeleton at the annual Róisín Dubh shindig. Anyone who loves the craic and bit of a bop should look no further.
Hermitage Green, Dolan’s Warehouse Limerick
“Limerick’s favourite sons” Hermitage Green return to Dolans to ring in the new year and celebrate the release of their new EP Gold and Rust.
Sweet Hearts New Year’s Eve Charity Ball, Limerick
For something a little bit different, why not dust down your dickey bow and gown and head along to the second Sweet Hearts New Year’s Eve Charity Ball in aid of The Irish Heart Foundation at the Savoy Hotel.
Attendees will be treated to six-course dinner surrounded by the music of Jazz Lite – followed by a night of dancing.
There is also a special charity in aid of the IHF. Tickets available here.
