Looking for the best gay bar in Dublin? As Ireland’s longest-running gay bar, The George has been at the heart of Dublin’s LGBTQ+ community for decades, offering a welcoming, safe space for locals and visitors alike.
First opened in in 1985, The George is so much more than just a bar—it’s an outright cultural institution. It was one of the first openly LGBTQ+ venues in Ireland and has played a pivotal role in supporting the community, especially during times when LGBTQ+ rights were still being fought for. It was a huge supporter of the Marriage Referendum popular vote and has hosted drag queens, celebrities and community leaders for over 30 years. Portraits of queer icons line the walls of the two-level club.
While there’s now plenty of LGBTQ+-friendly venues in town, The George remains the best gay bar in Dublin.
Whether you’re looking for high-energy drag performances, lip sync battles, a buzzing dance floor, or simply a pint of Guinness (or two!) in the cosy side bar, The George is the place to be. Here’s what makes The George one of the best LGBTQ+ nightlife spots in Dublin…
Legendary Drag Shows & Bingo
The George is best known for its iconic drag shows, featuring some of Ireland’s most beloved queens. From over-the-top lip-syncs to outrageous antics, these performances guarantee an unforgettable night (unless of course, you’d rather forget what you got up to on the dance floor…)
Resident entertainers like Davina Devine, Victoria Secret, and Shirley Temple Bar get the crowd involved and keep the energy high with dizzying dance routines, audience participation and more sequins than you can shake a stick at – if it’s not covered in glitter, we don’t want it.
Bingo with Shirley Temple Bar is the original, longest-running and best-known drag show on the Irish gay scene. Taking place every Sunday, it’s a must-see mix of comedy, camp, and chaos. Many a Sunday afternoon at The George has turned into a full-blown night out – when you’re having that much fun, who cares about work on Monday morning?
There’s a Party Every Night of the Week
There’s always an excuse to go out, with events taking place every night – keep an eye out on social media for their special guest appearances by RuPaul Drag Race Queens and fabulous themed events, from Brazilian Carneval nights with Samba dancing to Irish rugby match watch parties. Here’s what’s usually on in The George...
Monday:
“Win, Lose or Drag” game show at 9pm with performances from Phil T Gorgeous and Mizza, and tunes from DJ Stephen Dowling.
Tuesday:
“The Dolly Grip Experience” – Dolly Grip, Dublin’s drag queen extraordinaire, confidant, and “all-round old biddy”, along with her fab gal pals, the Grippettes. 9pm ’til late with music from resident DJ Karen Reddy.
Wednesday:
Witchy Wednesday Coven with Veda Lady. Expect “cold beers, cool queens and stiff cocktails” from 9pm with DJ Rocky T Delgado playing all the hits.
Thursday:
Thirsty Thursdays with Davina Devine and guests from 9.30pm – have a Kiki! There’s karaoke, drag performances, lip syncing and spot prizes, plus DJ Conor Behan.
Friday:
Sexy go-go dancers, face paint and confetti guns? Sign us up. RELEASE night at The George is free in before 9pm, €10 after.
Saturday:
Saturgays kicks off from 8pm with world-class drag, spot prizes and the best of Pop & Chart music from DJ Conor Behan, Veda Lady and Davina Devine to “get you shaking.”
Sunday:
Hosted by Shirley Temple Bar, Sunday Bingo has been running in the George for over 20 years and is the most iconic drag show bingo in Dublin. Showtime is at 8.30pm and there’s music from DJ Karen Reddy until 1.30am.
An Inclusive Atmosphere
One of the things that truly sets The George apart is its inclusive and diverse crowd. While it’s Dublin’s most famous gay bar, it welcomes everyone—whether you’re LGBTQ+ or an ally looking to experience a fun, safe, and open-minded venue.
The George isn’t just a place to party; it’s a community hub. It has played a role in hosting LGBTQ+ events, Pride celebrations, and charity fundraisers, helping to support and uplift the LGBTQ+ community in Dublin and beyond.
Great Drinks Specials
The George always has great drink deals, from happy hour specials to themed cocktails on event nights. Whether you’re sipping on a classic G&T or trying one of their signature cocktails, the bar staff know how to keep the party going.
The George Admission Prices & Opening Hours
The George is free entry every Monday – Thursday night. Fridays are €10 after 9pm. Unless special events are taking place, it’s then €10 from 8pm.
On Saturdays, a €10 charge will apply after 8pm; Sundays are €5 after 9pm and Bank Holidays are €10 after 8pm.
The George is open from 2pm – 2.30am Monday-Friday, and 12.30pm – 2.30am Saturday and Sunday.
If you want a fab night out at Dublin’s best gay bar, The George should be your first stop— get ready for a full-on extravaganza of drag, dance, and dazzling performances that will have you sashaying the night away.
