Kavanagh’s is the longest running family pub in Portlaoise. As such, it is a local landmark – as well as an exciting regional venue. Mixing traditional hospitality with modern entertainment facilities has proven to be a winning formula. A local bar from the outside portrays a calm, country exterior; inside it’s a veritable hive of activity. Kavanagh’s is one of the best venues in the country for any sort of event: they do everything from family birthday parties through comedy nights to gigs with leading Irish and international acts. There are three performance areas within the venue. The main bar, on the ground floor, is where you’ll find solo acts entertaining the weekend crowds or trad musicians doing a session on a Sunday evening. On the first floor there is a more intimate venue that holds 150 people and is a popular spot on the Irish comedy circuit. It also regularly hosts local bands showing off what they can do. The Courtyard can hold 250 people standing – and that’s where rock bands will turn up the volume in the evening, with a PA, bigger stage and lights. These three separate but connected areas can accommodate different groups and performances on the same night.

Kavanagh’s is a meeting place. And not just for the locals. Each weekend there are overlapping visits from cover bands, comedians and solo artists. Kavanagh’s reputation for excellence attracts touring acts from across the country and beyond, with Declan O’Rourke, Fangclub, David Keenan and The Hot Sprockets among those that are lined up between April and May, as well as the likes of Roll With It (“the ultimate Oasis tribute”), Thin Az Lizzy – and many more. The venue upstairs is also the focus for sporting events, with big occasions organised around the racing, soccer and GAA seasons. Big matches are regularly shown live in the bar in HD, with a great sound system. Make no mistake. Kavanagh’s Bar and Venue is more than worthy of the Hot Press Special commendation it received at the IMRO awards. One of the focal points for entertainment in the Midlands, it’s an outstanding success story.

28 Main Street, Moneyballytyrrell Portlaoise, Co. Laois

T: (057) 862 1744