Dublin: Irish House Party Show & Dinner in Georgian Townhouse

Summary

Traditional Irish music, dance and stories in a cozy Dublin setting

You’ll slip into an 18th-century Dublin townhouse for an evening of live Irish music and champion dancing, with stories that make you laugh out loud and maybe even join in yourself. Enjoy a three-course dinner if you choose, meet locals who treat you like family, and leave feeling unexpectedly connected to Dublin’s spirit.

What’s the experience like?

I’ll be honest — I expected something cheesy when we walked into that old Georgian townhouse for the Irish House Party. But the first thing I noticed was the smell of baking bread (soda bread, maybe?) drifting from the kitchen, and a guy named Ciarán tuning his harp by the fire. He grinned at us like we were old friends, even though I was still awkwardly clutching my raincoat. There was this hum in the room — not loud, just people settling in, glasses clinking. You could almost forget it was a show at all.

We’d picked the dinner option (definitely recommend if you’re hungry), so before any music started they brought out plates of stew and something sweet with cream — I wish I’d asked for seconds. The main event kicked off with a burst of laughter; our host told some story about his uncle getting lost in Temple Bar after too much Guinness. Then suddenly there was music everywhere: uilleann pipes, bodhrán, fiddles — all played by these All Ireland champions who looked like they were having as much fun as we were. At one point they asked if anyone wanted to try the bodhrán and I volunteered (big mistake). Let’s just say rhythm is not my strong suit but everyone clapped along anyway.

I didn’t expect to get pulled into Irish dancing either — but somehow there I was, feet fumbling on polished wood while one of the dancers tried to teach me a step or two. She had this way of laughing without making you feel silly. The whole thing felt more like being at someone’s family gathering than any “show” I’ve seen before. Kids were welcome too; saw a little girl absolutely transfixed by the harpist’s fingers moving so fast it was almost hypnotic.

By the end, my cheeks hurt from smiling and I kept thinking about how different this was from any pub gig or touristy thing back home. There’s something about Dubliners — they make you feel part of their story for a night, even if you’re just passing through. Still hear those pipes in my head sometimes when it’s quiet.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Evening Irish house party experience

• Arrive at Irish House Party venue
• Enjoy three-course Irish dinner (optional)
• Watch live traditional Irish music
• Experience Irish dancing and storytelling
• Participate in entertainment or relax

Top questions

Is dinner included in the Irish House Party show?

Dinner is included only if you select the dinner & show option when booking.

Where does the Irish House Party take place?

The show is held in an 18th-century Georgian townhouse in Dublin.

Are drinks included with the ticket?

No, drinks are available from a full bar menu at your own expense during the show.

Is this suitable for children or families?

Yes, families with children aged 5 years and over are welcome at the show.

Can guests participate in music or dancing?

You can join in as much as you like—there are chances to try instruments or dance steps if you want.

Are service animals allowed at the venue?

Yes, service animals are allowed during the Irish House Party experience.

How long has The Irish House Party been running?

The show has been running successfully for over 15 years in Dublin.

What traditional instruments will I hear?

You’ll hear indigenous instruments like uilleann pipes, bodhrán, and harp played live by champion musicians.

What’s included

Your evening includes entry to The Irish House Party live show featuring All Ireland champion musicians and dancers performing traditional music and storytelling inside an intimate Georgian townhouse setting. If you book the dinner option, you'll enjoy a full three-course Irish meal before the entertainment begins. Drinks can be purchased from a full bar menu throughout your visit.