The countdown to 2027 is already under way in Dublin. The New Year’s Festival has announced the headline act for its 31 December concert at Dublin Castle: Irish singer Aaron Rowe. Tickets go on general sale on Wednesday 30 September 2026 at 10am, while the festival promises three days of events in the capital, from 30 December to 1 January. The detailed programme has yet to be announced.
New Year 2027 in Dublin takes shape
Aaron Rowe in concert at the castle on 31 December
Dublin Castle will provide the setting for the Countdown Concert, the city’s major New Year’s Eve music event. Aaron Rowe will share the bill with The Academic, THEATRE, KK Lewis and DJ Shelly Gray. The artist made his name on Ireland’s live music scene before performing alongside Lewis Capaldi, Dermot Kennedy and Sam Fender. For travellers, it is a chance to experience the countdown in the heart of the city, at a historic venue rather than watching it on a pub screen.
The evening concert is for over-18s only. Early-bird tickets are priced at €44.90, plus Ticketmaster fees, and will go on sale on 30 September at 10am. The organisers state that the event remains subject to approval. Check the final price and conditions on the official programme page before booking.
Three days of celebrations in the capital
Music, a parade and events across Dublin
The New Year’s Festival Dublin is scheduled to run from Wednesday 30 December 2026 to Friday 1 January 2027. Alongside the castle concert, organisers are planning concerts at Meeting House Square, a city-wide music trail (NYF Dublin Music Trail), a procession and New Year’s Day events. An earlier concert session on 31 December is also among the events announced.
At this stage, the timings, artists and entry conditions for several events have not yet been confirmed. It would therefore be premature to plan an entire stay around a particular performance or assume that every event is free. The official festival website will publish details as announcements are made.
How should you plan a New Year’s Eve stay?
Book early, then keep your evening flexible
If the Aaron Rowe concert is your priority, start by checking ticket availability before choosing accommodation. To enjoy the events on 1 January too, a stay from 30 December to 2 January allows more time than simply spending one night in the city. Dublin Castle is in the city centre; choosing accommodation within walking distance or planning your journey back will prevent you from having to rely on last-minute transport after midnight.
As bus, Luas and DART timetables for New Year’s Eve 2026 have not yet been detailed, check Transport for Ireland closer to your departure date. For other evening ideas and an introduction to local customs, see our page on New Year in Ireland.
Information checked on 29 September 2026 with New Year’s Festival Dublin. The programme and practical arrangements may change.
