Record 80,000 attend Dublin by Night Fest

A combined record crowd of over 80,000 attended the third annual Dublin by Night Fest across three city centre venues at the weekend.

The free annual outdoor celebration of Dublin’s award-winning evening and night time economy drew unprecedented numbers across Saturday night, double the numbers of the two night event in 2024.

They were drawn to a diverse range of entertainment showcasing some of Ireland’s emerging musical talent and also featuring the visual arts, culture, food and business experience sectors.

Lord Mayor of Dublin, Cllr Ray McAdam, said the event highlighted the best of the capital after dark.

“Dublin By Night Fest 2025 showcased the very best of Dublin,” he said.

“It was an unforgettable experience for thousands of families, friend groups and people of all ages.

“It proved a great showcase of our wonderful city, and proof of a real thirst for similar events to bring people to the city centre from near and far.”

Dublin by Night Fest marked the city retaining the prestigious Purple Flag – presented to cities with consistently vibrant, family friendly nightlife.

This year, for the first time, the free event encompassed both north and southsides, on one night.

Events showcasing the best of Dublin’s night-time economy took place on Dame Street, College Green and Capel Street, connecting the city to mark the start of Fáilte Ireland’s Winter in Dublin programme.

Winter in Dublin highlights authentically Dublin events happening from November to January.

Saturday evening’s attractions included live outdoor performances, street animation, arts and culture installations, market stalls from local businesses, food offerings from Dublin’s top restaurants and cafes, and cookery demonstrations by renowned Dublin chefs.

The festival was jointly organised by Dublin Town, the businesses collective for Dublin City centre, and key driver of initiatives around Purple Flag; Dublin City Council, Fáilte Ireland and the Department of Culture, Communications and Sport. It was supported by An Garda Síochána.

A Purple Flag is an award for reaching a standard of excellence in the evening and night time economy through a diverse cultural offering which is non-alcohol dependent, family friendly, safe and vibrant.

Dublin is one of 40 European cities to hold a Purple Flag, a status it has held since 2013. It is awarded for two years.

Eoin Lyons, Director of Marketing and Communications for Dublin Town, said it was a proud night for the city.

“It takes the support of a city to put on a show like this, so we could not be more thankful to everyone who attended, and for the support of our partners in Dublin City Council, Failte Ireland, and the Department of Culture Communications and Sport,” he said.

“It was a proud night for Dublin, and already we cannot wait for next year.”