5 reasons Dublin is THE place to celebrate the New Year

1 The events

Come and join us in Dublin as the New Year’s Festival lights up the city with three spectacular countdown events! Against the iconic backdrop of the Custom House, excited revellers from all over the world will come together to ring in the New Year.

A highlight will be the Liffey Lights Midnight Moment: a dazzling spectacle of lights and music featuring lasers and aqua beams dancing across the midnight sky – in perfect harmony with live DJs and percussionists.

And of course, no celebration is complete without music – the Countdown Concert returns with Irish rock band Walking On Cars, together with special guests Ash, Aimee and Lisa McHugh, counting down to the big moment. Does Dublin know how to party or what?

2 The food

Between all those festivities, you’re going to work up quite an appetite. Dublin’s finest eateries mix the best of edgy, contemporary dining with homespun, traditional fare done right. Try L. Mulligan. Grocer, where hearty soups are served up beside cutting-edge main courses.

Need a snack on the go? Try the Temple Bar Food Market. This foodie paradise is in the heart of the city's cultural quarter. And there will be plenty of street food on offer at Custom House Quay – right in the middle of the New Year's Festival action. So you can dive right back in when you've had your fill. 

3 The attractions

In between all the festivities, leave some time to explore Dublin’s cultural curiosities. Trinity College houses the Book of Kells, a stunning manuscript of unbelievable intricacy. Enjoy the interactive exhibitions at EPIC – the Irish Emigration Museum in Dublin's Docklands, and discover stories of how Irish emigrants shaped the world. 

Maybe check out the 360-degree views from the top of the Guinness Storehouse, before visiting one of the city's wonderful national museums (entry is free)! And, of course, don't miss out on the quirky exhibits at the Little Museum of Dublin. 

4 The craic

Dublin is one of the top 5 friendliest cities in the world: fact. The locals of Dublin will welcome you with open arms, ready to grab a coffee or a pint or just have a chat with you about their favourite places. We even have a name for it – City of a Thousand Welcomes – described by many as the ‘best free thing to do in Europe’. Just sign up and you’ll be introduced to your guide. 

During the festival, make even more friends while you pause for thought and dream up some resolutions, clap along with some incredible street performers, be wowed by the music or simply hang out! 

5 The views

After you've danced the night away at the New Year's Eve Countdown Concert you have dozens of options on what to do next. Stretch your legs on a Fab Food Trail, test your nerve with the Skyline Tour atop Croke Park, or head out to the towns and villages sandwiched between the mountains and sea...

Hop on a DART (train) to Dalkey, Dun Laoghaire, Malahide or Howth and simply breathe in that fresh sea air, chill out in cute cafés or restaurants or explore the heritage of these pretty spots. Finish your day with a trip back to the city for a chilled-out tour of Christ Church Cathedral or one of the city's many galleries. Absolute bliss.