1 The events

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

Take Liffey Lights Midnight Moments – a spectacular symphony of lights, music and daring acrobatics. Gasp in awe as Heliosphere’s high-flyers spin through the sky while attached to giant helium balloons. Marvel at the skill of the Flyboarders as they perform their incredible stunts across the River Liffey.

And of course, no celebration is complete without music – the 3Countdown Concert returns with Irish chart-toppers Kodaline counting down to the big moment. And the fun just doesn’t stop – the 3New Year’s Day Celebrations features music, jugglers, mime artists and stilt walkers. 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 like Wild Boar Braise with Parsnip Crisps. A must-try. 

Need a snack on the go? Try the Temple Bar Food Market. This foodie paradise is nestled among the streets of the cultural quarter. And there will be plenty of street food on offer on Custom House Quay – right in the middle of the New Year 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 3Countdown Concert you have dozens of options on what to do next. Stretch your legs on a Fab Food Trail, test your wits with a Treasure Hunt, 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.