The Academic to Rock Dublin Castle for New Year's Eve Countdown Concert Matinee 2026
New Year's Festival Dublin has revealed the lineup for its Countdown Concert Matinee 2026, with The Academic leading an exciting bill of Irish talent at Dublin Castle on December 31th.
Dublin's New Year's Eve celebrations are getting off to an early start, with The Academic set to headline a special afternoon of live music at Dublin Castle. Joining the indie favourites are THEATRE, KK Lewis and DJ Shelly Gray, promising plenty of tunes, festive atmosphere and a family-friendly countdown to welcome 2027.
The Academic Lead a Cracking Irish Lineup
Known for their infectious guitar hooks, catchy indie anthems and energetic live shows, The Academic have built a loyal following far beyond Ireland. Having played stages across Europe, North America and Southeast Asia, the band will bring their unmistakable sound to one of Dublin's most iconic venues for a special New Year's Eve performance.
Joining them are rising Irish act THEATRE, whose atmospheric blend of gothic rock, folk and shoegaze has been turning heads, alongside Dublin singer-songwriter KK Lewis, who brings her soulful mix of R&B and pop to the lineup. DJ Shelly Gray will also be on hand, spinning crowd favourites and keeping the party atmosphere going.
An Early Countdown for All Ages
The Countdown Concert Matinee offers a chance to experience the magic of New Year's Eve without staying up until midnight. Festivalgoers can enjoy a special early countdown spectacle at Dublin Castle, making it an ideal outing for families, younger music fans and anyone looking to kick off their celebrations in style.
Countdown Concert Matinee 2026 Tickets
Tickets for the Countdown Concert Matinee go on sale Wednesday, October 14, at 10am through Ticketmaster. Single tickets cost €9.90, while family tickets are priced at €24.90 for two adults and two children. Additional booking fees apply, under-16s must be accompanied by an adult, and the event is subject to licence.
More New Year's Festival Dublin Celebrations
The matinee is just one highlight of New Year's Festival Dublin 2026, which runs from December 30 to January 1st. Aaron Rowe will headline the main New Year's Eve Countdown Concert at Dublin Castle, alongside The Academic and the matinee's special guests, with early bird tickets priced at €44.90 before fees.
Elsewhere, the three-day festival will feature the Echoes of Ireland Concerts, NYF Dublin Music Trail, the colourful New Year's Day Procession and free concerts at Dublin Castle and Meeting House Square. It's all part of a packed programme bringing Irish music, entertainment and festive celebrations to the capital.
Countdown Concert Matinee at Dublin Castle
With The Academic leading a strong lineup of homegrown talent, the Countdown Concert Matinee at Dublin Castle looks like a brilliant way to get New Year's Eve celebrations underway. Affordable tickets, great live music and an early countdown make this one worth adding to your festive plans. Dublin, get ready to ring in 2027!
Countdown Concert- Ticket Details
Early bird tickets priced €44.90 on sale now from Ticketmaster.
Additional Ticketmaster charges will apply. Subject to 12.5% Ticketmaster service charge per ticket (max €10.50). This concert is strictly over 18's. Event subject to licence.
