Dublin City centre is to again host a free thrilling November celebration recognising its award for consistent excellence across its evening and night time economy.
The third annual Dublin by Night Fest will mark the city retaining the prestigious Purple Flag – presented to cities with consistently vibrant, family friendly nightlife.
Last year’s events attracted over 40,000 across two nights.
This year, organisers expect an even bigger crowd as the event enlarges to encompass both north and southsides on the one night, Saturday November 1st.
Events showcasing the best of Dublin’s night-time economy will take place on the iconic thoroughfares of Dame Street, College Green and Capel Street, connecting the city to mark the start of the Winter in Dublin programme, which highlights authentically Dublin events happening from November to January
There will be a diverse range of entertainment across the music, visual arts, culture, food and business experience sectors. And it will showcase some of Ireland’s emerging musical talent.
Attractions include 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.
According to Lord Mayor of Dublin, Cllr Ray McAdam, who launched the event, the city should be proud of its continuing Purple Flag status.
“Dublin by Night Fest will act as a brilliant incentive for Dubliners, visitors and families to experience the vast range of music, culture, food and shopping on offer in our capital city,” he said.
The festival is 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 is 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 only 40 European cities to hold a Purple Flag, a status it has held since 2013. It is awarded for two years.
Minister for Culture, Communications and Sport, Patrick O’Donovan TD, welcomed the opportunity to celebrate and promote Dublin’s night time economy.
“I am delighted to support this festival for a third year. It offers a diverse range cultural events for locals and visitors to enjoy and will once again showcase what our capital city has to offer in the evening and night time.”
Liz Halpin, Head of Dublin at Fáilte Ireland, said Dublin by Night Fest is a powerful display of how Dublin’s evening and night time economy continues to evolve, not just as a vibrant visitor destination but as a culturally rich experience for all.
“We are proud that this year’s festival also marks the launch of Winter in Dublin programme, supported by Fáilte Ireland and the city stakeholders, which shines a spotlight on the very best experiences the city has to offer through the winter season.”
According to Dublin Town CEO, Richard Guiney, the city is facing its night time challenges head on.
“There is a growing platform to deliver a wonderful experience for all in the city, day and night.
“Achieving and maintaining our Purple Flag necessitates co-operation from all the city’s key stakeholders.
“We believe this mutual effort will deliver the city Dubliners want.”
