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Spotlight

18th Jan 2023

4 spots to get your fix of live music, theatre and culture in Dublin this month

Lovin' Media

From ringing in the Lunar New Year to Temple Bar’s annual Tradfest celebrations, there’s a whole host of quality events taking place in Dublin this month.

Liven up those long winter days by taking a look at this lively calendar of cultural events taking place in Dublin this January – yes January!

Forgo the sofa and fill up the days and pack full the nights with some of the incredible cultural happenings taking place all over the city this month.

The Winter in Dublin programme is chockablock with happenings, from live gigs and cultural events to walking tours, festivals and family days out.

So whether it’s a day out with the kids, a couple’s break or a solo date, there’s something for everyone happening in Dublin’s fair city this month.

We’ve handpicked some of our favourite arts and cultural events taking place, so g’wan and add them to your calendar:

4. Tradfest Temple Bar – 25th-29th January

Dublin’s annual celebration of Irish music returns to Temple Bar this month, featuring a stellar line-up of new and established trad performers.

Over 50 live music concerts will take place across the city to mark the festival, but some highlights include the Smithwick’s Sessions at Temple Bar, Dublin Pride Night at The Button Factory, several trad performances at The Church Café and Women of Note at St. Patrick’s Cathedral, which celebrates a number of female artists from diverse backgrounds.

3. Dublin Lunar New Year Festival – 21st – 29th January 

The Lunar New Year Festival makes a triumphant return to the streets of Dublin, in celebration of the Year of the Rabbit.

Each year, the festival aims to engage and collaborate with communities that celebrate the Lunar New Year, including China, Vietnam and South Korea, with a line-up of diverse and exciting arts events. The festival’s flagship event at Meeting House Square promises some tasty Asian cuisine, fun Cantonese games and loads of music and dance performances throughout the day. Other highlights include Music @ The Museum and a vibrant celebration of light and music at UCD Confucius Institute.

Start planning your Winter in Dublin right here. 

2. Pop-up Theatre in historic venues – 28th January 

This month, you can enjoy a series of free, pop-up, performances that bring a number of iconic female historical figures to life, including Lady Mary Heath, Teresa Deevy and Eileen Gray.

These non-ticketed events will take place in locations with connections to famous figures including EPIC the Irish Emigration Museum, the Abbey Theatre and The National Museum of Ireland: Decorative Arts and History.

1. Dublin Music Trails: The Liberties

For some sightseeing with a musical twist, embark on one of VisitDublin’s Music Trails. Equipped with an online route map and an audio guide, you’ll discover some of the city’s hidden lyrical landmarks and musical heritage.

The Liberties trail reveals new truths about the area’s famous sites, exploring the crooks and crannies where some legendary artists have made their names over the years. From the music hall where Handel conducted the first performance of his Messiah, to the streets where Imelda May and Fontaines DC found their footing, it’s a great shout for all the music aficionados out there.