Ireland's Concert Scene in 2026: What to Expect
Ireland continues to be a vibrant hub for live music in 2026, with world-class venues across the country hosting everything from intimate acoustic sessions to massive stadium shows. Whether you're a fan of rock, pop, indie, electronic, or traditional Irish music, this year promises an incredible lineup of performances.
Major Venues Hosting Concerts in 2026
Dublin
- 3Arena - Ireland's largest indoor venue with a capacity of 13,000, hosting major international acts
- Aviva Stadium - For the biggest stadium tours and festivals
- Vicar Street - Intimate venue perfect for mid-sized acts and emerging artists
- The Olympia Theatre - Historic venue in the heart of Dublin
- The Academy - Popular spot for alternative and indie acts
Cork
- Live at the Marquee - Summer concert series featuring top Irish and international artists
- Cyprus Avenue - Intimate venue for emerging talent
- Páirc Uí Chaoimh - Stadium venue for major tours
Galway
- Leisureland - Multi-purpose venue hosting concerts and events
- Róisín Dubh - Beloved venue for indie and alternative music
Other Notable Venues
- INEC Killarney - Kerry's premier entertainment venue
- UCH Limerick - University Concert Hall hosting diverse performances
- Belfast SSE Arena - Major Northern Ireland venue
Music Festivals in Ireland 2026
Ireland's festival season typically runs from late spring through early autumn, offering multi-day experiences across various genres:
- Electric Picnic - One of Ireland's largest music and arts festivals, typically held in Stradbally, Co. Laois in late summer
- Longitude Festival - Dublin's premier urban music festival at Marlay Park
- Sea Sessions - Surf and music festival in Bundoran, Co. Donegal
- Forbidden Fruit - Alternative music festival in Dublin
- All Together Now - Boutique festival in Curraghmore Estate, Co. Waterford
Stadium & Large Outdoor Shows (Summer 2026)
| Artist / Event | Date(s) | Venue / Location |
|---|---|---|
| Emmylou Harris | January 18, 2026 | 3Arena, Dublin |
| TradFest (Festival) | January 21–25, 2026 | Temple Bar, Dublin |
| James Arthur | February 1, 2026 | 3Arena, Dublin |
| Jason Derülo | February 9, 2026 | 3Arena, Dublin |
| Imelda May | Feb 9–11, 2026 | Vicar Street, Dublin |
| Deftones | February 16, 2026 | 3Arena, Dublin |
| Tyler Childers | March 3, 2026 | 3Arena, Dublin |
| RAYE | March 4 & 5, 2026 | 3Arena, Dublin |
| Gorillaz | April 1 & 2, 2026 | 3Arena, Dublin |
| City of Derry Jazz Festival | April 30 – May 4, 2026 | Derry City |
| Paul Simon | May 20, 2026 | 3Arena, Dublin |
| Guns N' Roses | June 10, 2026 | 3Arena, Dublin |
| Metallica (M72 World Tour) | June 19 & 21, 2026 | Aviva Stadium, Dublin |
| Zach Bryan | June 20 & 21, 2026 | Páirc Uí Chaoimh, Cork |
| Katy Perry | June 24, 2026 | Malahide Castle, Dublin |
| Lily Allen | June 30 & July 1, 2026 | 3Arena, Dublin |
| The Wolfe Tones | July 3 & 4, 2026 | 3Arena, Dublin |
| Take That | July 4, 2026 | Aviva Stadium, Dublin |
| Dermot Kennedy | July 11 & 12, 2026 | Aviva Stadium, Dublin |
| Luke Combs | July 18 & 19, 2026 | Slane Castle, Meath |
| All Together Now (Festival) | July 30 – August 2, 2026 | Curraghmore Estate, Waterford |
| Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann | August 2–9, 2026 | Belfast |
| The Weeknd | August 22 & 23, 2026 | Croke Park, Dublin |
| Electric Picnic (Festival) | August 28–30, 2026 | Stradbally, Co. Laois |
| Bon Jovi | August 30, 2026 | Croke Park, Dublin |
| Westlife (Anniversary Tour) | September 10–26, 2026 | 3Arena, Dublin |
How to Get Tickets
Concert tickets in Ireland are typically available through:
- Ticketmaster Ireland - Primary ticketing platform for most major venues
- Eventbrite - Popular for smaller gigs and independent events
- Venue box offices - Direct purchases often available
- Artist presales - Sign up to artist mailing lists for early access
Pro tip: Tickets for popular shows sell out quickly in Ireland, so sign up for presale notifications and be ready when general sales open.
Planning Your Concert Experience
Getting There
Most major venues in Dublin are accessible via public transport including DART, Luas, and Dublin Bus. For venues outside Dublin, consider booking accommodation nearby or arranging transport in advance.
What to Bring
- Valid ID (required for most venues)
- Your ticket (digital or printed)
- Light jacket (Irish weather can be unpredictable!)
- Cash and card (some venues have cashless systems)
Commemorate Your Concert Experience
Looking for a unique way to remember your favorite concerts? Our personalized concert ticket prints transform your ticket stubs into beautiful keepsakes. With holographic foil finishes and minimalist design, they're the perfect way to display your music memories on your wall.
Stay Updated
Concert announcements happen throughout the year, so stay connected:
- Follow venue social media accounts
- Subscribe to ticketing platform newsletters
- Check artist tour announcements regularly
- Join Irish music fan communities online
Ireland's live music scene in 2026 promises unforgettable experiences across every genre. Whether you're catching an intimate gig in a local venue or experiencing a massive stadium show, there's something for every music lover this year.
This guide will be updated as new concerts are announced throughout 2026. Bookmark this page and check back regularly for the latest additions!