Our fortnightly gig guide picks out a handful of must see gigs taking place across Northern Ireland.
As Christmas vastly approaches, festive gig season is upon us. Put down the wrapping paper and indulge in some live music.
ASIWYFA with Problem Patterns & Chalk – Mandela Hall, Belfast – 16th December 2023
The OG punk-rock North Coast luminaries return for their annual Belfast show, in the freshly reformed Mandela Hall. Bringing together NI’s most acclaimed alternative artists, supporting we have the newly NI prize winning post-punk sensations chalk and the valiant voice of NI youth, evoking such powerful indignation, problem patterns.
Ash with Brand New Friend & Wynona Bleach – Ulster Hall, Belfast – 19th December 2023
The buzz remains a year on from Ash’s sellout Ulster Hall christmas show, and they’re back to do it all again. Upon the release of new album ‘Race the night’, Ash are still blowing crowds away decades on. Joined by indie triumphs of the local scene Brand New Friend and Wynona bleach, expect nothing less of a unforgettable gig.
The Florentinas with Post Party, Casual Riots & Lip Gloss – Limelight, Belfast – 21st December 2023
The florentinas host the indiest (and most festive) party of the year, celebrating all the best local tunes released by the thriving names in the scene, including their fresh singles ‘Weatherman’ and ‘Miami’ reminding us of their infectious sound. Joined by Post party, casual riots and lipgloss, this is going to be the Christmas party you don’t want to miss out on.
Joshua Burnside – Dockers Club, Belfast – 21st December 2023
As part of his Irish tour, Joshua Burnside, who I would argue to be the greatest name in Irish folk in the last decade, has added a second Belfast date due to unsurprising high demand. The scenic yet chilling winter atmosphere perfectly pairs with his acoustic melodies and heart wrenching lyricism.
Parker – Bennigans, Derry – 26th December 2023
The main event of the break is over so get down to Bennigans to blast away those cobwebs. Parker close out their album release tour with what will be a raucous homecoming show. Support on the night comes from Mondays Child and Reece Nelson.
AOIBHA – Deer’s Head, Belfast – 29th December 2023
Our 2023 Kickstart runner up AOIBHA is playing her debut headline show with a full band after Christmas. Set in the cosy confines of the Deer’s Head, she’ll be joined by Sarah McCreedy and Deirdre Anna Rose Kelly. You’ll be climbing the walls with boredom at home by this point so get out of the house and into Belfast to support her.
How do I get added to the gig guide?
There are tonnes of great gigs happening right across Northern Ireland each week and our gig guide only showcases a fraction of them. If you are hosting a gig and would like us to consider adding it to a future Gig Guide, please send all the details to info@chordblossom.com and we’ll get back to you as soon as we can.
Please be kind and remember we can’t feature everyone and where possible please try and give us at least 3 weeks notice.
