Sligo Town Night Time Economy Enrichment and Diversification Grants Awarded

  • 16 April 2025

Sligo Town was selected as one of nine pilot towns and cities that has prepared an action plan setting out a range of interventions to support the coordinated development of our night time economy.

This is an initiative of the Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media delivered in partnership by Sligo BID and Sligo County Council.

Following a competitive application process reviewed by an independent panel, fourteen innovative projects have been awarded grant funding to bring new and exciting evening experiences to life. These events will take place from April through September, taking place between 6pm and late, Thursdays to Sundays, across ten different locations throughout Sligo Town.

The funded projects will offer a diverse mix of cultural and community programming, including:

  • An Irish language live podcast
  • Evening family walk
  • Film shorts screenings
  • Open-air trad agus tine (music & fire)
  • DJ sets
  • Comedy shows
  • Community choir performance
  • A Dance social
  • Jazz music, and much more!

Edel Doran, Sligo Town’s Night-Time Economy Advisor, expressed her enthusiasm for what lies ahead:

“After the grant callout, I’m delighted and excited for what’s upcoming in Sligo town in the evening time. The grant process highlighted how Sligo is a place teeming with creative event organisers looking to offer something unique in the evening for the people of Sligo. It’s wonderful to see such a variance in the offering. I hope that this grant funding will help support these events to start off and then extend beyond the pilot window.”

Martin Lydon, Chief Executive of Sligo County Council, acknowledged the importance of a lively and safe night time economy: … "We are proud to support this dynamic programme that highlights the creativity and energy within our events community. These grants not only enable exciting and inclusive events for all ages but also help strengthen Sligo’s identity as a vibrant, welcoming town after dark. It’s a key step in shaping a safer, more connected and culturally rich night-time experience for residents and visitors alike."

Be sure to keep an eye on Sligo BID and Sligo County Council social media channels for events as they are officially announced.

For further information, please contact:

Edel Doran
Night Time Economy Advisor- Sligo Town
edel@sligobid.ie