A new era for Dublin after dark - How nightlife is evolving beyond the pint

'Bright Nights, Big City - Culture, Music and the Future of the Night-Time Economy' brings together Irish and international experts for a global conversation on the future nightlife and culture

News Stephen Holland Local Democracy Reporter 11:28, 14 Jul 2026 View 2 Images Ray O'Donoghue (Dublin City Night-Time Advisor), DJ Kirstin Keegan, Ava McKechnie (Musician) , Colm Hanly (CEO of AIM Ireland) for AIM Ireland Bright Nights Big City

Over three million tickets for concerts, festivals, and live entertainment in Ireland were sold in 2025, and this is expected to grow even further in 2026.

“Ireland has become a global success story for live music and culture,” says Dublin City Council’s Night-Time Economy Advisor Ray O'Donoghue . With younger generations trading alcohol-centred socialising for experience-led activities, the city's night-time economy is shifting away from traditional, quiet pubs toward sold-out concerts and events.

The need to recognise the shifting nature of night-time culture informs ‘Bright Nights, Big City - Culture, Music and the Future of the Night-Time Economy’. This is a one-day conference organised by AIM Ireland in partnership with the Council's Night-Time Economy Office, and will take place on 22 September at the National Concert Hall.

“The challenge now is ensuring our cities evolve at the same pace. Great night-time economies don't happen by accident. They are built through partnerships between government, culture, hospitality, transport and local communities,” Mr O’Donoghue said.

“Around the world we're seeing cities invest in vibrant, welcoming and safe places beyond the traditional working day because they recognise the value they bring to communities, visitors and local economies. Bright Nights, Big City is about bringing those conversations to Ireland and learning from some of the people leading that change internationally."

View 2 Images Ray O'Donoghue (Dublin City Night-Time Advisor), Ava McKechnie (Musician) , Colm Hanly (CEO of AIM Ireland) for AIM Ireland Bright Nights Big City

Lord Mayor Daryl Barron welcomed the conference and highlighted the way Dublin’s nightlife “supports jobs, culture, tourism and community life”. “Bringing together Irish and international experts to share ideas and experiences is an important opportunity to help shape the future of our city after dark and ensure Dublin continues to develop as a safe, creative and world-class destination.” he said.

Since the pandemic, it’s clear there have been changes in consumer habits and hospitality has changed significantly as it’s adapted. Cities across Europe are recognising that in order to compete they must push past regular, everyday offers to attract residents, visitors, and investment.

This has resulted in more than 100 cities around the world appointing Night Mayors or Night-Time Advisors. As a recognition of the importance of collaboration between government and culture, they demonstrate how hospitality and local communities shape successful cities after hours.

In Ireland, that work is being supported by the Department of Culture, Communications and Sport through the national Night-Time Economy Advisor pilot programme and continued investment in grassroots music and culture. These initiatives recognise a thriving night-time economy depends on strong leadership paired with creative talent. This informs a global conversation, which is coming to Dublin this September.

This conference will explore how cities are responding to changing consumer behaviour, supporting grassroots culture and music, improving transport and public safety, and creating thriving destinations for residents and visitors alike. International case studies will sit alongside Irish perspectives, with a focus on collaboration, innovation and practical solutions.

Colm Hanley, Managing Director, AIM Ireland, said: "Every headline act starts somewhere. Today's grassroots venue is where we'll discover the next CMAT, Fontaines D.C. or Kneecap. Ireland's biggest concerts and festivals are a tremendous success story, but they're built on a foundation of independent artists, grassroots venues and local promoters.

“Supporting that ecosystem is essential - not only for the future of Irish music, but for creating vibrant cities and a thriving night-time economy. We're looking forward to welcoming speakers from Ireland and around the world to share ideas, challenge thinking and help shape what comes next."

Further speakers and programme details will be announced in the coming weeks.

This content is funded by the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme

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