NYF Dublin is a flagship event in Fáilte Ireland's 'Winter in Dublin' programme.  NYF Dublin is Ireland’s Biggest New Year’s Celebration, a programme over  3 Days,  featuring Echoes of Ireland Concerts, Countdown Concert, family-friendly Countdown Concert Matinee, Music Trails across the city and the NYF Dublin Fireworks Spectacular in Howth and Dun Laoghaire at 8pm, New years Eve. 

Photo: Allen Kiely / Fáilte Ireland.

Dublin Castle

Dublin Castle is one of Ireland’s top visitor attractions. It’s hard to read a Dublin guide without seeing it mentioned and lucky for you, situated just off Dame Street, the castle is a short 10-minute walk from The Fleet.

Dublin Castle was constructed on elevated ground, which was once occupied by an earlier Viking settlement. From 1204 until 1922, Dublin Castle served principally as a residence for the British monarch’s Irish representative. In 1604, a major fire broke out, causing severe damage to much of the building. The seventeenth and eighteenth centuries were spent rebuilding the Castle into a beautiful Georgian palace. Today, the castle spans 11 acres and consists of 2 museums, 2 cafés, an international conference centre, 2 gardens, Government Buildings, and the State Apartments.

Dublin Castle, Dublin City_master

Over the centuries, Dublin Castle has been a host to many famous figures. Amongst those are Benjamin Franklin, Queen Victoria, Charles Dickens, John F. Kennedy, Nelson Mandela and Queen Elizabeth II. Today, over a quarter of a million people visit the castle each year.

If you get hungry during your visit, you can stop by the Terrace Cafe on the ground floor of the State Apartments. You can relax with some coffee and lunch, with a view of the castle’s gardens.

Dublin Castle is hosts different exhibitions and events throughout the year, so make sure to check out what is on before your visit.