It can often be a nightmare trying to decide where to spend New Year’s Eve, especially when you’re on a budget. Luckily, there are a number of events around the country where you can ring in the new year without breaking the bank.
In Dublin, there will be free fireworks displays in both Howth and Dún Laoghaire for the second year running. The displays will run simultaneously, both beginning at 7pm on New Year’s Eve.
To see the stunning display, the main viewing area in Howth will be in Pier Park, but it will be visible from Burrow Beach and Portmarnock Beach. In Dun Laoghaire, the fireworks will be viewable along the east pier.
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In Dublin city centre, the Procession of Light will begin at 4pm, making its way from Cook Street, along Dame Street, up to Dublin Castle. Onlookers can expect a number of street performers and marching bands making their way through the city’s streets.
There will be an early countdown in Galway city, ringing in the new year at 8:30 pm. This free event runs from 6-9 pm and will include performances by the Galway Ukelele Tribe, TBL8 and PrYmary Colours.
This event will take place on the historical grounds of St Nicholas Collegiate Church and will also include light and arts displays.
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In Dingle, there will be a free fireworks display starting at 8 pm at the marina. This will be followed by a midnight countdown, including a projected clock to ring in the new year.
New Year’s Eve is also the last day of Corkmas in Cork city. It marks the last chance for visitors to enjoy the large Ferris wheel and carousel placed in the city’s Grand Parade.
There are also several free events for those with enough energy to leave the house on New Year’s Day. In Dublin, there is a programme of free, family-friendly activities in Dublin Castle taking place from 1-5 pm.
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Dublin Castle will be hosting performances by Kíla, Chasing Abbey, Grooveline, and Still Blue. Several music venues in the city will also be open for free daytime events; more information on these is available here.
For those looking to clear the cobwebs away in Limerick, there will be a sober rave taking place at Wickham Way, starting at 4 pm on New Year’s Day.
For those who are willing to part with what little Christmas cash they have left over, there will be a New Year’s Eve countdown concert in Dublin Castle. This includes two ticketed events, with the 8 pm concert, headlined by Inhaler, already sold out.
The 4 pm matinees, however, still have tickets available. A family ticket, including two adults and two children, costs just €24.90. The concert will see performances by Florence Road and Biird and will include a ‘midnight moment’ countdown at 6:30 pm.