In Cork, not all live music will be traditional. But they all promise a good craic.
Irish music plays a deeper form of a bond between its people. During times of struggles for independence; familiar tunes connected their minds, hearts and souls. True traditional Irish music isn’t performed on stage, but in the corner of a pub, with musicians sitting in a circle, facing each other rather than the crowd. It’s a special experience of community and lineage. Here are some of the best places to enjoy live music in Cork, where you can soak in the tunes just as much as Ireland’s sordid history.
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The Corner House
The Corner House is a classic pub, featuring live traditional Irish music, right in Cork’s city center. Since 1994, this fan-favorite has been the inspiration for local artists, writers, and poets. Traveling musicians drop in and have spontaneous performances on the spot, making The Corner House a fun bar for both locals and visitors. It’s a lovely time with a pint of Guinness or a local brew.

The Oliver Plunkett
The Oliver Plunkett is a traditional Irish Pub, wildly popular with tourists. Aptly named after the Catholic Archbishop as well as the street it’s located on, this massive pub showcases some of the best live music in Cork. The wide beer selection spans from a classic Guinness or a Hop House, to delicious craft beers. Visitors can browse through fascinating photos, old Irish quotes and even song lyrics that embellish its dark walls and ceiling.

Rearden’s Bar
Famous across Ireland as one of the largest and best pubs for live music is Rearden’s Bar, where the fun never stops, even on rugby game nights. The bar itself already exemplifies elements of a traditional Irish public house, but there are added components, like: an antique theater pay kiosk, vintage light fixtures…etc. It’s not uncommon to see regulars hang out with their pints of brews tucked in their favorite corners. There’s always a live band performing on every Wednesday, Friday and Sunday night. Meanwhile on Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays: there’s a house DJ spinning away.

Coughlans Bar

Coughlans Bar is another favorite among locals and travelers, especially for its live music and guaranteed fun nights. Established since early 19th century, the pub is built on a medieval cemetery, adding a mystic character to this popular joint. Besides its wide selection of beers (just like every other Irish pub,) Coughlans also features a comprehensive collection of gin, for all the gin lovers out there. In additional to live music, Coughlans is also known for its comedy nights.
Sin É

“Sine é” means “that’s it,” which points to the pub’s next door neighbor: a funeral parlor. Often voted as one of the best pubs in Cork, Sine É hosts live traditional Irish music every night, until the pub closes. Guests are even allowed to bring their own cold foods, adorning a casual and friendly atmosphere that permeate throughout this historical place. Opened in 1889, Sine É has built a strong fan base since generations of families have been coming here for years.
Costigan’s Pub
Since 1849, Costigan’s has been hosting live music that guarantees a good craic, which means “have a good time” in Irish slang. Another historical pub in Cork, Costigan’s is one of the originals but went through a renovation, now welcoming guests with an open terrace and more seating than before. Come here for live music on Sunday, Monday and Wednesday night.

JJ Walsh’s
Named after the Irish Revolutionary official: James Joseph Walsh, who was married to Sheila Turner, one of the original owners of the Turner’s Hotel where now JJ Walsh pub is situated. Since 1910s, JJ Walsh has always been a part of Cork. Now it encompasses a modern cocktail lounge towards the back of the pub, along with an outside courtyard. On most nights, there’s live music here. Depending on the night, the crowd can veer towards the younger side. But if you like cover bands, JJ Walsh is where to go.
