Balancing an event budget is one of the main challenges event creators face. Catering, technology, event promotion, and of course, the dreaded venue rental expenses can all put a massive strain on your budget, forcing you to cut corners elsewhere.
Our 2018 Pulse Report reveals that venue hire still remains one of the biggest costs for event planners and 24% of respondents shared that they would benefit from more flexible payment terms.
Whether it’s a product launch, a comedy fundraiser, or an intimate gig you’re organising, selecting your venue is a task that shouldn’t be taken lightly. And while your venue choice certainly has the power to make or break the event’s success, it doesn’t always have to break the bank.
To save you time and money, we’ve picked out five fantastic venues in Dublin where you can host your event free of charge.
Located on Capel Street in the centre of Dublin’s market area, The Boar’s Head is a regular haunt for the likes of Shane Lowry, who famously celebrated his Open victory with a trip to the family-run pub. If that isn’t enough of an endorsement, it’s also the pub of choice of the All-Ireland champions the day after the glitz and glamour of the Burlington Hotel. Described as a country pub in the heart of the capital, it’s no surprise that Irish stew is a specialty, while the warm welcome from staff is renowned by locals and tourists alike.
The lounge upstairs will hold 70-80 people and also has a projector screen so is perfect for anything from parties to screenings of sports events or films. Catering is also available from the bar downstairs!
Situated in the Liberties on the four corners of hell – the name was once given to the crossroads of Kevin’s Street, Patrick’s Street, New Street, and Dean Street – The Fourth Corner describes themselves as “a modern take on your local neighbourhood bar.” The Fourth Corner opened up its doors earlier this year and is already known for killer cocktails, exquisite pizza, and superb staff. The venue has a private basement bar that can hold about 30-35 people. The space has already played host to popular movie nights and live drawing art classes and makes the perfect location for a laid back intimate event. And the best part? It’s yours to book free of charge!
The iconic northside bar has a gorgeous snug area which can host up to 70 guests. You can take the room free of charge once you order some reasonably priced finger food. With a stage and sound system, it’s the perfect space for an intimate gig or comedy night. The venue has also hosted quizzes, drinks receptions, and product launches a-plenty! If you’re looking for something a little larger, the pub has an event space upstairs for up to 150 guests.
Sin E
A staple of the Dublin pub scene, Sin E is widely known for its plentiful supply of DJs and quality live music. It has a small basement room downstairs which provides the perfect setting for your intimate event. The room has a bar and a screen, and while the space is small, it’s got everything you need if you’re not expecting huge numbers. Good food, a great selection of craft beers, friendly staff, and located right on the quays – what more could you want?!
This charming pub – one of the oldest in Dublin – is named after Charlie Chaplin who visited while holidaying in Ireland. Renowned for comedy nights and a fantastic pint of Guinness, the Hawkins Street venue has just what you need to host the perfect intimate event.
The function room upstairs can hold approximately 60-65 people and plays host to the famous Chaplin’s Comedy Club and regular open mic nights. Equipped with a sound system, a screen, and a projector, the upstairs space is ideal for all kinds of small events, from cosy gigs to charity quiz nights. The function room has its own bar and barman available on the night at an optional charge, but it’s easy for your guests to pop downstairs to the main bar for a pint. Party platters and finger food also available on request. Sounds like a winner to us!
Now that you have your round-up of free venues, check out our complete guide to finding the right venue in Ireland for your next event. Happy venue planning!
