Dublin is a city of music. You’ll find that there is live music almost everywhere – from pubs to theatres and concert halls. However, even more great voices can be found in the city’s streets, as Dublin’s busking culture is one of the most vibrant in Europe. From trad sessions to soulful acoustic sets, there’s a bit of everything, and sometimes, you even discover great upcoming artists whose careers you’ll love following for years to come. In this post, we’ll let you know where you can find busking hotspots in the city to experience this unique street music scene.
Grafton Street
This one’s a given, as Grafton Street is Dublin’s most famous busking spot. On the shopping street in central Dublin, many big names got their start – including Hozier, Damien Rice, and Keywest. From early afternoon until late in the evening, there are buskers on the street, often with large crowds vibing to their music. The acts range from singer-songwriters and trad musicians to bands, rappers, or even theatrical performers – each one definitely worth a stop.
Henry Street & O’Connell Street
Another busy shopping area, another busking hotspot in Dublin. A little less polished than the scenery in Grafton Street, Henry and O’Connell Streets often are the stage for young musicians, street drummers, or even bagpipe players. So make sure to keep an eye and an ear out for those talents when you’re exploring Dublin’s northside – whether you’re shopping or on your way to a pub or a bar in the evening.
Temple Bar
In Temple Bar, tradition meets tourists from all over the world. The area is known for its pubs and nightlife, but the cobblestone streets also host some great street performances. As many tourists stroll along the lanes with their colourful houses, it’s mostly traditional Irish music, fiddlers, or bodhrán players that can be found here. So whether you are from Dublin or you’re on your travels – the talent, liveliness, and energy that come with the crowds are definitely worth a visit.
Ha’penny Bridge & Liffey Quays
Another special scenery accompanying the buskers’ performances is the Liffey. On the riverside or when you’re crossing Dublin’s iconic Ha’penny Bridge, you might be greeted by the sound of a guitarist, saxophonist, or violinist. The instruments, in combination with the backdrop of the River Liffey and the city lights in the evenings create a special atmosphere you’ll want to indulge in.
Let the busking hotspots find you
Dublin’s busking culture is certainly one of the reasons why you should visit the city. And most of the time, you’ll experience the best and most energetic performances when you’re just on your way through the city and come by one of its busking hotspots. Make sure to stop for a while, listen to the buskers’ performances, and enjoy the energy from the musicians – often you’ll find yourself in the crowd singing along. And not to forget: For special occasions, like concerts or seasonal events, you might even see superstars like Coldplay or Bono on Grafton Street returning to their busking roots.
Image sources:
Header: Matthew Maaskant on Unsplash
1) David Field on Unsplash
2) Frank Huang on Unsplash
3) Anna Church on Unsplash
4) Matteo Grando on Unsplash
5) Jordan Harrison on Unsplash
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