The Dublin City Night-Time Economy strategy outlines an “ambitious vision” to create a dynamic, inclusive and vibrant nightlife aimed at attracting both residents and visitors.
A new advisor, Ray O’Donoghue, has been appointed to oversee these plans as part of a pilot programme for an initial two-year period funded by the Department of Tourism.
The strategy is built around three core pillars – Cultural Activity, Mobility and Transport, and Safety – and aims to position Dublin as a “leading night-time destination in Europe”.
“This plan is a call to action for all stakeholders to unite in crafting a sustainable, exemplary and world-class nightlife,” Mr O’Donoghue said.
“It envisions a safer, more inclusive, and culturally vibrant Dublin. We want to make Dublin one of Europe’s top night-time destinations through tangible, on-the-ground initiatives.”
Ray O’Donoghue is leading the project to rejevunate the capital’s night-time economy
Some of the key measures of the strategy include: coordinating venues and cultural institutions to extend late-night events; establishing dedicated safe spaces in key nightlife districts; introducing pop-up events and gigs to enhance the overall night-time experience; and showcasing temporary public art installations and film screenings to infuse vibrancy into the city’s public and cultural spaces.
Other measures include improved lighting in high-traffic areas, promoting increased frequency of public transport, and launching campaigns with training to promote best practices, ensuring a nightlife free from discrimination.
A newly established Night-Time Economy Steering and Advisory Group will oversee and ensure the successful implementation of these initiatives.
Dublin City Council invites all stakeholders and the public to support and participate in this exciting new chapter for Dublin’s nightlife economy.
“This strategy marks a crucial step forward in reimagining Dublin’s nightlife. By supporting cultural vibrancy, we can unlock the full potential of our nightlife economy,” Catherine Martin, Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media, said.
“I believe that a thriving nightlife will not only boost the city’s economy but also strengthen our sense of community and make Dublin a more inclusive and exciting place to live and visit.
“This was a key aim of the Night-Time Economy Taskforce, and I am delighted that the new Night-Time Advisor role, supported by my Department in Dublin City and eight other locations across the country, is having a really positive impact, and I would like to thank Ray,” she added.
The news comes as Dublin Town announced the city has again been awarded a prestigious Purple Flag award for its night-time economy, a status it has held since 2013.
The accolade is an award for reaching a standard of excellence in the evening and night time economy through a diverse cultural offering which is non-alcohol dependent, family-friendly, safe and vibrant.
“Dublin City centre at night has experienced justifiable criticism, but it is addressing its challenges systematically,” said Dublin Town CEO, Richard Guiney.
“Securing the Purple Flag award for 2025 is evidence of the strength of city partnership and our determination to regain public support and engagement in the city, particularly after dark.”
