As 2025 draws to a close, there’s no better time to start thinking about how you, and your friends or family, will celebrate the arrival of 2026! Whether you’re after big city fireworks, traditional Irish music, or family-friendly fun, the cities and towns we serve are buzzing with New Year’s Eve plans.
Here’s our guide to New Year’s Eve 2025 events across the JJ Kavanagh network:
Dublin – The Capital’s Legendary Countdown
Dublin plays host to one of Ireland’s biggest New Year’s Eve celebrations, with a full New Year’s Festival spanning 30 December–1 January across the city centre, Dublin Castle and cultural venues. Expect live music, street food, concerts and a spectacular fireworks display at midnight, many events are ticketed, so book ahead!
Highlights:
- New Year’s Festival performances around Dublin Castle and Temple Bar.
- Fireworks displays at Dún Laoghaire Harbour and coastal points.
- Parties and live music at venues like Rascals Brewing or Fitzsimons in Temple Bar.
Whether you’re looking for family fun, cultural experiences or epic nightlife, Dublin’s New Year’s Eve scene has something for everyone.
Limerick – Parties & Elegant Dinners
Limerick has growing New Year’s Eve buzz with a mix of casual parties and refined celebrations:
- Party at The Old Stand Bar — a great local party option.
- Savoy Hotel New Year’s Eve Ball — a glamorous dinner, prosecco reception and dancing for a stylish start to 2026.
- New Year’s Eve dinner at The Limerick Strand — special four-course dining with live music and bubbly at midnight.
Whether you want cocktails and dancing or a memorable dinner with views of the River Shannon, Limerick delivers.
Waterford – Family & Community NYE Fun
Waterford’s festive momentum continues into New Year’s Eve with events perfect for families and local groups:
- Cuidiú’s New Year’s Eve Party in Tramore — a fun, early evening event for little ones with crafts and a countdown.
Other Waterford City venues, pubs and hotels often host dinner nights and celebrations ringing in 2026 together.
Waterford’s welcoming vibe means whether you watch fireworks, enjoy a cosy meal or spend the evening with friends, there’s community spirit in every corner.
Kilkenny – Festive Fun & Countdown Parties
Kilkenny comes alive for New Year’s Eve with several fun events for locals and visitors alike:
- Sing in the New Year at St. Mary’s Cathedral — a warm, music-filled tradition.
- New Year’s Eve Warm-Up Party at Christy’s Bar — a lively social night out before the big countdown.
Kilkenny’s medieval streets and cosy pubs make for a magical backdrop as the clock strikes midnight.
Carlow – Elegant Local Celebrations
Carlow’s Woodford Dolmen Hotel is hosting a New Year’s Eve party and music experience, featuring live bands and entertainment that runs into the early hours.
This makes Carlow a fantastic stop for travellers who prefer music, dancing, and a lively hotel atmosphere without the hustle of a big city.
Why Choose JJ Kavanagh?
Free Wifi
On-board wifi
USB Charging
USB points at each seat
Toilets
For your convenience
Comfort
Very comfortable seats
Baggage
Ample allowance
With an average vehicle age of less than four years, our coach fleet is one of the most modern, reliable, and comfortable in the European marketplace. We invest significantly in upgrading and expanding our fleet annually to provide you with the best travel experience. Our commitment to maintaining a young and technologically advanced fleet ensures that you receive top-quality service and comfort on every journey.
Plan Your New Year’s Eve Celebration
From vibrant city countdowns in Dublin to lively parties and cosy celebrations across Kilkenny, Limerick, Waterford and beyond, every stop offers its own way to welcome the year ahead. Let JJ Kavanagh take care of the travel, so you can focus on the celebrations, the countdown, and starting 2026 in style.