Dublin: Irish Dance Party at Temple Bar Pub with Live Music

Summary

Irish music laughter & dance steps upstairs in Temple Bar

You’ll join locals and travelers upstairs at Merchants Arch Bar for an Irish Dance Party in Dublin’s Temple Bar district. Learn group dance steps from award-winning dancers, enjoy live Irish music, and relax between dances at your reserved table with food or drinks available. Expect laughter, stories, and moments where you actually feel part of Dublin — not just watching from the sidelines.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect to sweat in a Dublin pub, but here we were — upstairs at Merchants Arch Bar, right by the river, with my shoes sticking a little to the old wooden floor. The Irish Dance Party started off kind of casual, everyone at their own tables (ours was reserved, which felt oddly fancy for me). Our host — a musician with that quick Dublin wit — kicked things off with a song I half-recognized from somewhere. He explained the story behind it, something about lost love and whiskey, and I caught myself grinning before I’d even touched my pint.

The dancers came out next. I mean, they made it look easy — those sharp taps and spins. Then suddenly it was our turn. “Don’t worry if you’ve two left feet,” one of them joked as she showed us the steps. The first round was all clapping and laughter; my friend nearly tripped over me trying to keep up. I could smell someone’s shepherd’s pie drifting by from the bar menu while we shuffled around in a big circle. Honestly, I was more out of breath than expected but weirdly proud when we finally got it right (sort of).

Between dances there was time to just sit back and watch — four performances in total, each one different. There was this moment when the singer slowed things down and told a story about growing up nearby; you could hear people getting quiet for a second, just listening to him pick at his guitar. That stuck with me more than I thought it would. And yeah, Li laughed when I tried to say “sláinte” properly (I’m still not sure I nailed it). The whole thing lasted about two hours but felt quicker somehow… maybe that’s always true when you’re having fun or slightly embarrassed by your own dancing.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Attend Irish Dance Party event

• Arrive at Merchants Arch Bar
• Take seat at reserved table
• Enjoy pint of Guinness
• Watch four dance performances
• Learn three group Irish dances
• Listen to Irish singer and MC
• Order food and drinks from menu

Top questions

Where does the Irish Dance Party in Dublin take place?

The event is held upstairs at Merchants Arch Bar, 49 Wellington Quay in Temple Bar.

How long does the Irish Dance Party last?

The experience lasts for two hours.

Are there live performances during the event?

Yes, there are four choreographed performances by professional Irish dancers and live music throughout.

Do guests participate in dancing?

Yes, guests are taught three group Irish dances by the instructors during the party.

Is food or drink available during the event?

Yes, there is a full bar and menu serving Irish food available throughout.

Is this suitable for children or families?

Yes, children must be accompanied by an adult and youths are welcome.

What should I wear to the Irish Dance Party?

Comfortable clothing is recommended for dancing.

Are public transportation options nearby?

Yes, public transportation is available close to Merchants Arch Bar.

What’s included

Your afternoon includes entry to The Irish Dance Party upstairs at Merchants Arch Bar in Dublin’s Temple Bar area; reserved seating at your own table; all activities like group dance lessons led by award-winning dancers; four live performances; plus plenty of time to enjoy drinks or food from the full bar and menu while soaking up local music and stories before heading out into Dublin again.