Merry Ploughboys Irish Night
Traditional Irish dinner and live music show at the Merry Ploughboy Irish Music Pub in Dublin. An evening of interactive music, song and dance with a three-course meal; meet on location. Options typically start in the early evening (see schedule).
In Collaboration with Merry Ploughboy Irish Night. Updated on March 11, 2026.
This itinerary was created in collaboration with Merry Ploughboy Irish Night, inspired by the tour Merry Ploughboys Irish Night. Please check the tour information during your booking process.
Highlights
- Award-winning Irish dinner & show (multiple years recognised)
- Pub owned and run by traditional musicians — interactive music, song & dance
- Includes an Irish three-course meal and a lively, social atmosphere
Explore all itineraries in Dublin.
Itinerary
Day 1
Merry Ploughboys Irish Night (evening performance)
Meet at the Merry Ploughboy Pub in central Dublin for the traditional Irish music night. The event combines a three-course Irish dinner with an engaging live performance featuring music, song and dance led by the pub’s resident musicians. Doors typically open before the advertised start time to allow seating and meal service prior to the main performance.
- Monday12:30 – 11:30 PM
- Tuesday12:30 – 11:30 PM
- Wednesday12:30 – 11:30 PM
- Thursday12:30 – 11:30 PM
- Friday12:30 PM – 12:30 AM
- Saturday12:30 PM – 12:30 AM
- Sunday12:30 – 11:00 PM
Tips from local experts:
- Arrive 15–20 minutes before the scheduled start (for example, 18:10 for an 18:30 start) to be seated promptly and order any drinks before the performance.
- The venue is in central Dublin — short taxi or rideshare trips from major central points (e.g., O'Connell Street, Temple Bar) are the quickest after a night out; check Dublin Bus routes if you prefer public transport.
- If you plan to buy alcoholic drinks bring a government-issued photo ID; the atmosphere is lively and participatory — dress casual-smart and keep personal items close during standing or dance sections.
Itinerary Attributes
| Days | 1 |
| Highlights | 3 |
| Season | - |
| Month | - |
| Persona | Friends |
| Transfers | - |
| Restaurants | - |
| Total Activities | 1 |
| Total Places | 1 |
| Activities Types | Nightlife |
Why this experience
You sit in a centuries-old pub, candlelight dancing on wooden beams, as a bodhránist strikes the first notes. Before you know it, the room erupts in song—locals and visitors alike, voices blending with fiddle and guitar. The Merry Ploughboy Irish Night is where you taste authentic Irish hospitality: a three-course traditional meal paired with live musicians, dancers in full swing, and the kind of singalong that stays with you long after the evening ends.
The beauty of this experience is that it unfolds naturally. You're not watching a show—you're part of the story. The musicians work the room, drawing out participation, sharing stories between sets. The dance performances range from formal choreography to spontaneous footwork that leaves you grinning. By the third course, you'll understand why this evening has been recognized year after year as Dublin's most beloved Irish cultural experience.
Before you go
- Best time: Autumn and spring offer comfortable temperatures for the journey to Rathfarnham and create the warmest dining atmosphere. Winter is equally magical if you appreciate cozy, intimate indoor evenings.
- Budget: Check the booking widget for current tour pricing. This includes the three-course meal, drinks, live music, and return bus transfer from the city centre.
- Difficulty: Easy — this is a seated dinner experience. No physical demands.
- What to bring: Smart-casual clothing. The pub is warm and lively, so layers are useful if you're sensitive to temperature.
- Getting there: Return bus transfer is included from central Dublin locations. You'll be picked up and dropped off near your accommodation or a central meeting point. No need to arrange your own transport.
- Accessibility: The venue is a traditional pub with some narrow corridors and stairs. Contact the operator in advance if mobility assistance is needed.
Frequently asked questions
Is this a touristy experience or authentic Irish culture? It's both. Yes, visitors come here, but so do locals—many return year after year. The musicians and dancers are seasoned performers who know how to draw real participation, not just observation. You're in a real pub, eating real food, hearing real Irish music, not a theatrical set.
What if I'm not a singer or dancer? You don't have to be. The beauty of the evening is that you can sit back and enjoy, or join in as much as you like. No one is forced to perform, and your presence alone adds to the energy.
Can I book this for a special occasion? The operator specializes in evening performances, and group bookings for celebrations can be arranged. Check with them about customization options when you book.
What's included in this itinerary? This itinerary on TheNextGuide is free to read and follow at your own pace. The Merry Ploughboy Irish Night is a fully guided, bookable experience—you'll book through the widget, show up at the pickup point, and the operator handles everything from there.
Complete your trip in Dublin
Make the most of your Dublin evening with these complementary experiences.
- Howth Harbour cliffs and sunset — A scenic water-based alternative if you prefer coastal views to indoor dining.
- Irish Whiskey Museum & Gallery guided tour — Pair your evening with an afternoon learning Ireland's whiskey heritage and tasting premium blends.
- Small-group craft beer trail — Explore Dublin's modern brewing scene alongside traditional Irish music culture.
Browse all Dublin itineraries at TheNextGuide.
Last updated: April 2026
