Last night IMRO hosted the 2025 Live Music Venue of the Year Awards at The Sugar Club, Dublin, recognising the outstanding venues, festivals, and crews that bring live music to life across Ireland.
With input from over 25,000 IMRO members, McGinley’s Bar in Letterkenny, Co. Donegal, was named IMRO National Live Music Venue of the Year 2025 following a public vote.
Eleanor McEvoy, Chairperson of IMRO, highlighted the significance of the awards, stating: “Live music venues are the backbone of Ireland’s music culture. They create essential spaces where artists and audiences connect, and we are proud to celebrate the dedication of those who make live music possible.”
Regional Winners:
- Dublin – The Button Factory, Dublin
- Rest of Leinster – The Set Theatre, Kilkenny
- Connacht – TF Royal Hotel & Theatre, Castlebar, Co. Mayo
- Munster – Coughlan’s, Cork
- Ulster – McGinley’s Bar, Letterkenny, Co. Donegal
Festival & Crew Awards:
- IMRO Music Festival of the Year 2025 – All Together Now
- IMRO Small Music Festival of the Year 2025 – Another Love Story
- IMRO Venue Tech Crew of the Year 2025 – Vicar Street
- IMRO Festival Tech Crew of the Year 2025 – Electric Picnic
- Hot Press Live Venue of the Year 2025 – 3Arena
- Hot Press Special Recommendation Award 2025 – The Set Theatre, Kilkenny
- Hot Press Special Recommendation Award 2025 – Mike the Pies, Listowel
The event featured performances from Florence Road, F3miii, Annie-Dog, and DJ Maria Lawlor.
IMRO also welcomed representatives from Safe Gigs Ireland and shesaid.so Dublin, recognising their work in promoting safety, inclusivity, and diversity within the music industry.
The IMRO Live Music Venue of the Year Awards celebrate the venues, festivals, and crews that sustain Ireland’s thriving live music scene. These awards not only honour excellence but also highlight the ongoing commitment to fostering a vibrant and inclusive space for live music.
