Ireland · IRISH MUSIC & DANCE SHOWS
Good irish music & dance shows fill up weeks ahead and the great ones go first. Below: the 9 to book early, what each includes and how they differ.
From 3 to 5 pm above Merchants Arch Bar on Wellington Quay, musicians such as Jim or Gary host Irish songs, stories, and live instruments while professional dancers perform and teach three group dances. You get a reserved table, a full bar, and a friendly social setting in Temple Bar.
“Amazing experience! Would say it’s a have to do while in Dublin! Traveling with a group from 2 to 80 and everyone is having a blast”
Meet upstairs at The Merchants Arch in Temple Bar for a two-hour Irish music and dance session. Local dancers teach easy steps, then perform with a live singer and musicians. You’ll have a reserved table overlooking the Ha’Penny Bridge, with drinks available to buy.
“the singer was fantastic just a pity I could not join in the dancing as I had a injury as this looked so much fun”
At Leisureland Theatre in Salthill, you’ll see Trad on the Prom’s world-class dancers, musicians, and singers in a two-hour Irish music and dance show. The cast includes talent linked to Riverdance, Lord of the Dance, and The Chieftains, with storytelling, traditional instruments, and a chance to meet performers afterward.
“I absolutely love it! Such a high quality show. Enjoyed every bit of it!”
Spend two hours at Galway’s Trad on the Prom, where Irish musicians, singers, champion dancers, and fiddler Máirín Fahy bring traditional culture to life with a modern stage show. Doors open at 8pm, performances begin at 8:30pm, and admission costs $42.34.
“It was great fun. Here visiting family, husband recently became Irish citizen nice to connect with his culture.”
Walk from Temple Bar to St Patrick’s Cathedral with a musician-guide such as Ciaran, Sean, Dylan, or Shaun. Expect folk ballads, poems, Gaelic songs, Dublin lore, and short talks at Smock Alley, Fishamble Street, Christ Church Cathedral, Dublin Castle, and the Liffey.
“We had a great time in this tour. Sean our guide was wonderful. Learned some great music history of Dublin and heard some great songs sling the way. Highly recommend this tour!”
Join a local Dublin musician such as Sean, Ciarán, Dylan, or Jimmy for a two-hour walking tour of songs, folklore, and city history. Expect live mandolin or vocal performances, chances to sing along, historic sites, and practical Dublin tips. The tour starts and ends by The Old Storehouse pub.
“One of our favorite tours in Dublin, nicely paced, and fun to learn a little bit about the musical history of Ireland :)”
Meet at Claddagh Hall by Nimmo’s Pier for a 60 to 90-minute Irish dance class led by experienced teachers including Siobhan. Learn Riverdance-style steps, Sean Nós, and group Céilí dancing, with music, history, practice, and plenty of laughs. No dance background is needed.
“Belle initiation à plusieurs danses traditionnelles dans la joie et la bonne humeur toute la famille a adoré ! ( ados et mari)”
Join dance teacher Louise O’Connor for a friendly 90-minute introduction to Irish set dancing at The Burren Inn in Tubber, County Clare. You’ll learn simple group dances, hear traditional music, and dance with a small group of up to 15 people. The class is in English and suits beginners.
“I had an amazing time at Louise's classes. It's so good that I keep coming back for more. The atmosphere is friendly and inclusive. Everyone is smiling and having fun. Such great vibes. We are all friends by the end of the night. I would definitely recommend.”
At Claddagh Hall in Galway’s old fishing village, an English-speaking professional instructor introduces you to Irish dance, from sean-nós and céilí steps to Riverdance-style movement. Expect a friendly 90-minute class with music, history, and plenty of chances to join in, at $34 per person.
“A truly extraordinary experience, thanks to our teacher. I highly recommend taking this opportunity to discover new things, share new experiences, and share smiles.”
Pick a coast road, a castle or a counter.
