Physical Address
304 North Cardinal St.
Dorchester Center, MA 02124
Physical Address
304 North Cardinal St.
Dorchester Center, MA 02124

Experience authentic Irish culture with a lively dinner and show at Dublin's Merry Ploughboys, featuring traditional music, dance, and home-cooked dishes.
Planning an evening in Dublin that combines hearty food, traditional music, and lively entertainment? The Merry Ploughboys Irish Night offers a memorable taste of Irish culture that many travelers find worth experiencing. Known for its engaging performances and authentic atmosphere, this show has garnered a solid reputation — with a 4.5 out of 5 rating based on 44 reviews.
What we love about it is how the evening seamlessly blends delicious Irish home-cooking with dynamic performances full of wit, humor, and audience interaction. The lively music and energetic dancing keep everyone engaged from start to finish, making it a fantastic option for those wanting a genuine Irish experience.
One thing to consider is that this experience is non-refundable, so if your plans change unexpectedly, you’ll need to be prepared. Also, with a duration of about 3 hours and 40 minutes, it’s a slightly longer evening activity — perfect for a relaxed night out but maybe less ideal if you’re on a tight schedule.
This tour is best suited for visitors who are eager to enjoy traditional Irish culture in a fun, informal setting — especially those who appreciate good food, engaging performances, and a lively atmosphere.


The tour kicks off with the welcoming atmosphere of the Merry Ploughboys Pub, renowned for its warm Irish hospitality. Your ticket grants you access to this lively venue, where the evening begins with a three-course Irish meal. Reviewers rave about the quality of the food, describing it as excellent home-cooking. Dishes like Irish beef stew and fish chowder are frequently highlighted as outstanding, giving you a true taste of Irish comfort food.
You might also be interested in these Dublin experiences
The meal is a major highlight — a chance to indulge in hearty, traditional fare. Many reviewers mention the generous portions and delicious flavors, making it not just a meal but a comforting start to your night. Kids also seem to enjoy the experience, with some reviews noting that even picky eaters found the food appealing, with options like chicken nuggets for children.
Once the plates are cleared, the real entertainment begins. The Merry Ploughboys band takes the stage with a fast-paced set of Irish songs, ballads, and instrumental music. Reviewer Gill_F describes it as a fantastic evening with “dancers fantastic” and a band that really interacts with the audience. The performances are filled with Irish humor and wit, creating a lively, upbeat atmosphere that gets everyone tapping their toes.
The dance routines are energetic, often involving the audience in sing-alongs and clapping. According to a reviewer, the dancers are “excellent”, and the performers’ ability to connect with the crowd makes this show stand out. The band’s playful humor and audience interaction create an informal, welcoming vibe that makes everyone feel involved.
The show’s emphasis on interaction is what many find most appealing. It isn’t just a passive night of watching; it’s an engaging experience that makes you feel part of the Irish tradition. Reviewers frequently mention how the performers use humor to keep everyone entertained, ensuring an enjoyable, authentic Irish night.
The experience lasts about 3 hours and 40 minutes, which is perfect for a full evening’s entertainment but worth noting if you prefer shorter activities. The lively environment, combined with the impressive music and spirited dancing, guarantees you’ll leave with a smile.
The ticket is delivered via mobile, simplifying the booking process. The venue welcomes service animals, making it accessible for those with special needs. Since most travelers can participate, it’s suitable for families, couples, or groups wanting an authentic taste of Irish culture without the need for prior experience or special skills.
At $40.40 per person, the ticket provides a lot of value. For that price, you get a full Irish meal and nearly four hours of live entertainment. The positive reviews highlight the quality of the food and the engaging, humorous performances, making it a worthwhile addition to your Dublin itinerary.
Compared to other activities like brewery tours or sightseeing excursions, this experience offers both cultural insight and entertainment in one package. Many reviewers point out that it’s a “must-do” for visitors wanting to connect with Irish traditions in an informal, fun environment.
However, keep in mind the non-refundable policy. Once booked, changes are not allowed, so ensure your plans are firm. Also, if you’re looking for a very quiet, formal evening, this lively, audience-interactive show might not suit you.

Arrival and Check-In: The evening begins at the friendly Merry Ploughboys Pub, where the atmosphere is cozy and welcoming. Staff handle check-in smoothly, and many reviewers mention the warm greeting and attentive service.
Dinner: The highlight is the three-course Irish dinner. Expect familiar, hearty dishes that are well-prepared. From rave reviews, the Irish beef stew and fish chowder are standouts, with generous servings and authentic flavors.
Performance: Post-meal, the stage comes alive with traditional Irish music and dance. The band, praised for their fun, engaging style, leads lively sing-alongs, and the dancers showcase Irish step dance with impressive energy. Audience participation includes sing-alongs and clapping, creating a shared, spirited experience.
End of Show: The night concludes with many attendees expressing a desire to return, often citing how memorable and authentic the experience was. The room remains lively until the very end, leaving visitors with a genuine Irish cultural souvenir.
This show emphasizes authentic Irish music, dance, and humor, making it a genuine cultural experience. Unlike many tourist shows, the performers seem genuinely passionate, and the interaction helps guests feel like part of the Irish tradition. Several reviewers mention how the performance captures the spirit of Ireland and provides a fun, lively night that even kids can enjoy.
This tour is ideal for families, couples, and groups looking for a relaxed, fun night out that combines delicious food with dynamic entertainment. It’s particularly suitable for those eager to experience Irish music and dance in a welcoming environment. If you’re seeking a more formal or subdued evening, this might not be the best fit, but if you want to laugh, sing, and eat well, it’s hard to beat.

The Merry Ploughboys Irish Night offers a hearty, lively immersion into Irish culture. With delicious traditional food, interactive performances, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere, it provides excellent value for the price. The show’s length ensures you’re thoroughly entertained without feeling rushed, while the audience participation creates a sense of camaraderie and fun.
This experience is perfect for travelers who want to enjoy authentic Irish music, dance, and humor in a relaxed setting. It’s especially suited for those wanting a full evening of entertainment that leaves them with a lasting memory of Dublin’s vibrant cultural scene.
While the non-refundable policy requires some planning, the overall experience — as reflected in glowing reviews — suggests that most will find it a worthwhile addition to their Irish adventure. Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply seeking an authentic night out, the Merry Ploughboys Irish Night stands out as a genuine, engaging cultural highlight.

Is this experience suitable for children?
Yes, many reviewers mention that the show is family-friendly, with children enjoying the music, dancing, and friendly atmosphere. Some reviews note that even kids’ meals, like chicken nuggets, are available.
How long does the show last?
The entire experience lasts approximately 3 hours and 40 minutes, making it a substantial evening activity.
What does the meal include?
The meal features Irish home-cooking, including dishes like Irish beef stew and fish chowder. The food is described as delicious and hearty, with generous portions.
Is the ticket mobile?
Yes, tickets are delivered via mobile, making it easy to book and present your confirmation.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
No, this experience is non-refundable. If you need to reschedule, you’ll need to contact the provider to see if other options are available.
Is the performance interactive?
Absolutely. Reviewers highlight the band’s lively engagement and audience participation, which adds to the authenticity and fun.
Who is this experience best for?
It suits those wanting a lively, authentic Irish night out — perfect for families, couples, or groups eager to enjoy traditional Irish music, dance, and food in a relaxed setting.
This detailed review aims to help you decide whether the Merry Ploughboys Irish Night aligns with your interests and expectations. With its emphasis on tradition, fun, and hearty food, it stands out as a compelling way to learn about Irish culture during your stay in Dublin.