Bright Nights, Big City

Bright Nights, Big City

About the event

AIM Ireland, in partnership with Dublins Night-Time Economy Office, has announced Bright Nights, Big City – Culture, Music and the Future of the Night-Time Economy.

The new one-day conference will bring together Irish and international leaders from culture, music, hospitality, tourism, government and city development to explore how cities can build vibrant, safe and sustainable night-time economies.

The announcement comes at a time when Ireland is enjoying another remarkable summer of music, culture and major events. With well over three million tickets sold across concerts, festivals and live entertainment in 2025—and more expected in 2026—Ireland has cemented its reputation as one of Europe’s leading destinations for live music and events.

But while sold-out concerts and festivals continue to make headlines, the conversation around Ireland's night-time economy is becoming much broader.

The way people use our cities is changing. Consumer habits continue to evolve and hospitality has changed significantly in the years since Covid. Younger generations are seeking more experiential ways of enjoyment as alcohol led experiences continue to decline. At the same time, cities across Europe and beyond are recognising that vibrant evening and night-time economies are essential to culture, tourism, hospitality, public safety, economic development and quality of life. Cities are increasingly competing on what they offer beyond the traditional working day, making the evening and night-time economy an important part of attracting residents, visitors and investment.

The night-time economy is about much more than pubs and clubs. It includes live music, theatres, galleries, restaurants, cafés, festivals, transport, hospitality and the public spaces that help create vibrant, welcoming and safe cities beyond the traditional working day.

More than 100 cities around the world have now appointed Night Mayors or Night-Time Advisors, recognising the importance of collaboration between government, culture, hospitality and local communities in shaping successful cities after hours. In Ireland, that work is being supported by the Department of Culture, Communications and Sport through the national Night-Time Economy Advisor pilot programme and continued investment in grassroots music and culture. Together, these initiatives recognise that a thriving night-time economy depends on both strategic leadership and a strong pipeline of creative talent.

This September, that global conversation comes to Dublin.

The conference will explore how cities are responding to changing consumer behaviour, supporting grassroots culture and music, improving transport and public safety, and creating thriving destinations for residents and visitors alike. International case studies will sit alongside Irish perspectives, with a focus on collaboration, innovation and practical solutions.
 
Presented by AIM Ireland in association with Dublin’s Nighttime Economy Office

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