Spend New Year’s Eve in Dublin City On A Tour
Fireworks, drinks, costumes and concerts — they’re all trademarks of the elaborate New Year’s Eve celebrations happening in cities around the world on December 31. But if you’re looking for the ultimate New Year’s Eve celebration – whether you’re interested in good eats, good beer, good sightseeing or a good party – you don’t need to look beyond the city of Dublin.
So what’s on the agenda for New Year’s Eve in Dublin this year? Just about everything, so get online and get your travel plans set in stone today.
The People’s Procession of Light
Whether you’re a seasoned veteran of the New Year’s Eve celebrations in Dublin or you’re visiting the city for the first time, you’re sure to be impressed with this magical parade of talent, lights and Irish history. This family-friendly procession features theatrical and musical performers that you’ll feel like you paid a pretty penny to see, but it’s actually an entirely free event.
Interested in getting involved? Bring a lantern from home or make one at a festival workshop and carry your light in the parade. Spectators line the streets long before the start of the event at 6 p.m. on December 31, so get there early for a better view.
The Countdown Concert
Wondering where the real party is at midnight? Don’t miss the much-anticipated Countdown Concert starting at 8 p.m. on December 31. This event is strictly 18 and up and it extends beyond midnight, so you and the 10,000 other music fans can celebrate the first minutes of 2014 together.
Every type of music from blues to 80s pop and local Irish tunes will be played, and the streets of Dublin will undoubtedly be jumping. For music lovers and party animals alike, the Countdown Concert is one of the world’s best places to be at midnight.
Get There Early and Stay Late
Although your purpose for visiting Dublin may be the partying and festivities, you won’t want to miss out on the celebrations before and after New Year’s Eve. Fall in love with the city on the aptly named Love Dublin Day held on December 30. A number of venues through town hold free cultural events, concerts, art fairs and festivals to throw you head first into the vibrancy of the city.
And although you may be feeling a little under the weather after a long night on New Year’s Eve, you’d better prepare for the kids to drag you to the Big Brunch on the first. Filled with kids activities, creativity stations, face painting, magic and more, your kids are certain to feel the same way you will about Dublin – it could very well be the best city in the world.