With many of Dublin’s high-profile gigs already sold out, this October is a good time to look beyond the usual names. From emerging artists in intimate venues to under-the-radar shows worth discovering, Dublin still has plenty to offer. Here are some alternative picks to keep your October nights busy.
A Night Of Noise: SOFT RULES, JUST BAD, PUNTER, AND JASMINE.
If you are looking for the chance to discover a new favourite band, Night Of Noise, presented by The Soundhouse and Superfun records, is one of your best bets this October. Showcasing some of Dublin’s most exciting emerging acts, this line-up offers a lively showcase of fresh talent for alternative music fans. With the night also marketed as the final headline show for Soft Rules, this gig is an especially worthwhile one to catch.
The Soundhouse | 13th October | 7pm | €10 ADV, €12 On Door.
Tickets available here: Soft Rules Headline Show at The Sound House in Dublin | Mato
DELIVERY SERVICE
With Egan’s Live Lounge establishing itself as one of Dublin’s newest live music spaces, this show is a chance to discover one of the newest additions to the city's growing nightlife. Catch local favourites Delivery Service in an intimate show following this month's streaming release of their debut ep, Five Songs. Best of all, entry is free and with this show no doubt set to be a busy one, it's worth arriving early to secure a good spot.
Egan’s | 15th October | 8pm | Free.
REVOLVE THURSDAYS: KIPPAX, SNUG AND SILVERBACKS (DJ Set)
The much-loved Revolve Thursdays continue October 15th with a jam-packed line-up of Dublin heroes Kippax, Snug, and Silverbacks at the Grand Social Ballroom. For fans of alternative and indie rock, this is not one to miss if you’re looking for a late night out in October. Silverbacks will keep the night going with a DJ set until 2:30 am, and a free pint with every ticket. What's not to love?
The Grand Social | 15th October | 10pm | €9.55 on Door.
Tickets available here: REVOLVE S2 ft. Kippax, Snug & Silverbacks DJ Set Tickets, Thursday, October 15 • 10 PM - 2:30 AM | Eventbrite
TAYLOR D EP LAUNCH PARTY
Celebrate Taylor D's recently released EP Bad Decisions (and her birthday) with her in an evening full of big energy, loud guitars, dancing and a whole lot of chaos. Support will be from the incredible Dog Bless, so make sure to get down early!
Sin É | 16th October | 8pm | €10
Tickets available here: Taylor D EP Launch
HALLOWHELANS: IVY ROMERO, DC DOLLS, HENOSIS, NOTIONS
Taking place a week before Halloween, this showcase of familiar names is sure to get you in the spirit. It’s also a great opportunity for discovery, offering a chance to catch some of the most promising acts in the scene all in one night. The evening doesn’t end there, with Whelan’s silent disco and a late bar to keep the celebrations going well into the night. With tickets on sale for just €13, it’s a great price to catch such a strong line-up in one of Dublin’s most famous live music venues.
Whelans Upstairs | 22nd October | 7pm | €10 ADV, €13 on Door.
Ticket available here: IVY ROMERO, DC DOLLS, HENOSIS & NOTIONS - Whelan's
KESTREL, SKYLESS, VESPERS
Cork-based indie quartet Kestrel and dreamy alt-rockers Skyless join Vespers as they take to the stage for their live debut. This gig offers the perfect mix of established acts and emerging talent and is a great chance to catch Vespers at the start of their live journey. At just €11.70, it's a budget-friendly way to support Dublin’s music scene while adding another memorable night out to your October calendar, especially during the lead-up to Halloween.
The Workman’s Club | 23rd October | 8pm | €11.70.
Tickets available here: Kestrel, Skyless & VESPERS - Live at The Workman's Club Tickets, Friday, October 23 • 8 PM - 10:30 PM | Eventbrite
KAPAYJA
Dublin-based band Kapayja take over the Grand Social Ballroom for a headline show on the 29th of October. Following a busy festival season, which saw them perform at All Together and Electric Picnic, the band return to Dublin with support from Hotgirl. Whether you have caught Kapayja on the festival circuit or are discovering them for the first time, this gig is a great opportunity to familiarise yourself with one of Dublin’s most raw and immersive acts up close and round-up a busy month of live music on a strong note.
Grand Social | 29th October | 7:30pm | €20.25.
Tickets available here: Tickets Kapayja, Dublin | Thu, 29 Oct 2026, 19:30 | Ticketmaster IE
Words by
Ava Haskins, 2026