Live Music In Dublin

From inspiring international artists through to waxing lyrical, Dublin is one song-filled city, with bars and pubs soundtracked nightly with a whole host of genres. Whether it's jigging to Irish trad at a backstreet pub or moshing at a rock gig, we've rounded up some of Dublin's best live music bars, pubs, clubs and venues for when Spotify just won't cut it.

Last edited by Scarlett Welch

Last updated on 1st December 2025




The Rag Trader

When only traditional Irish music in a vintage-look pub will do, The Rag Trader is where to head on Wednesday and Thursday nights from 8pm onwards. There's fireplaces, mis-matched furniture and trinkets galore across the space, while the bar also stocks over 100 whiskies - plus your usual stout, craft beer and cocktails.

The Old Orchard Inn

Situated in the Rathfarnham area, The Old Orchard Inn is a popular local boozer that often hosts live music performances. While you enjoy the show, sip killer cocktails or one of two exclusive beers brewed in-house.

That's not all though, as they've also got an extensive food menu - think peri peri chicken burgers, battered cod tacos or braised pork belly. As for the venue itself, expect a warm atmosphere and pretty interiors filled with plants.

Searsons

Make your way to Baggot Street to discover Searsons, a bustling pub where you'll be welcomed with cracking drinks and an even better atmosphere. The interiors are dark, cosy and inviting, and they even boast the title of Best Whiskey Bar in Ireland for 2024.

Sundays see live jazz musicians playing from 6.30pm, which you can enjoy alongside a wide range of pints or spirits. If you're feeling peckish, they've also got an all-day menu featuring the likes of honey mustard chicken tenders, homemade seafood chowder and Angus beef burgers.

The Fourth Corner Bar

A neighbourhood bar and event space in the Portobello area, The Fourth Corner promises a regular lineup of entertainment. They host both live bands and cracking DJ sets, with a dedicated stage area to watch them from.

Sip pints or cocktails while you enjoy the show, and be sure to check out their food menu too. Bolt Burger are in the kitchen, cooking up tasty patties and sides, from chicken wings to nachos.

Humphrey’s

Humphrey's is the perfect spot for live music lovers in Dublin! Every Thursday, the pub hosts a lively traditional (trad) music session that brings the best of Irish culture to the heart of the city.

Whether you're a local or a visitor, there's no better way to spend a Thursday night than with a pint in hand, surrounded by the sounds of live music. With its welcoming atmosphere, fantastic beers, and delicious tacos, Humphrey's offers a perfect combination of good food, great tunes, and a cosy vibe.

Disndat

Fancy seeing some fantastic artists perform in a traditional Irish pub? Then head to Disndat, a quirky venue in the city centre boasting a bustling atmosphere and live music seven nights a week. What's more, their cocktail selection is to die for - alongside plenty of pints as well.

The Cobblestone

Preserving Ireland's traditional music scene, The Cobblestone is a charming boozer in the heart of Smithfield. Expect rustic wooden interiors and comfortable seating, as well as a cracking range of beers behind the bar.

They host live music seven days a week, promising old-school performances from all kinds of artists, and it's one of the most famous traditional music pubs around. 

Kehoes Pub

A real Dublin live music experience, Kehoes Pub is keeping things low key with ale, trad music and original decor. Stop by on a Tuesday for acoustic tunes, which make for the perfect for a date night if you're snuggled up in one of their wooden clad booths.

The Porterhouse Temple Bar

An iconic spot for a pint in the city, the original Porterhouse also likes to keep it lively with traditional Irish music over the weekends. Head to this Temple Bar joint as they serve craft beer, Irish ale and lively tunes to see you into the wee hours.

The Academy

If you're looking for some international talent or the latest superstar, you can start at The Academy. The Middle Abbey Street plot puts on regular gigs, with past acts ranging from cult favourites Bowling For Soup through to Indie kids You Me At Six.

Opium

Opium is a cracking Dublin live music venue, club, bar and restaurant all rolled up into one. A relaxed restaurant serving the finest in Asian cuisine by day, this place transforms into a fun-loving party bar and raucous gig space when the night rolls in. 

The Workmans Club

One of Dublin's rowdier spots, The Workmans Club has hosted some huge names, including the likes of Cillian Murphy on the DJ decks, and Father John Misty crooning. When it's not cranking out live music, the bar is keeping you entertained with poetry readings, comedy and more.

Button Factory

Set in Temple Street, The Button Factory puts on shows five nights of the week, whether that be an EP release or a rock band trying out their electric guitar. If you're looking for a place to see some of the best live music in Dublin, this venue promises to deliver.