Patrick Kielty hosts Late Late Show New Year’s Eve live countdown to 2026

The Late Late Show host Patrick Kielty

Patrick Kielty is set to lead a spectacular live countdown into 2026 as The Late Late Show rounds off 2025 with a star-studded New Year’s Eve special, packed with music, laughter and reflection.

Broadcast live on RTÉ One and RTÉ Player, the much-loved annual programme promises an unforgettable night of entertainment, combining standout musical performances, surprise collaborations and lively studio conversations — before culminating in a live countdown from the iconic Dublin Castle.

The Late Late Show New Year’s Eve Show will look back on the defining moments of the past year while setting an upbeat tone for the year ahead, bringing viewers together across Ireland and beyond for a shared celebration.

Music at the heart of the night

Music lovers can expect an exceptional line-up, with acclaimed singer-songwriter David Gray performing his iconic hit Babylon, while Lyra delivers a powerful rendition of Edge of Seventeen. Gavin James will captivate audiences with songs including Storm Warning, and Cork band Cliffords showcase their distinctive sound with My Favourite Monster following a breakthrough year.

The programme will also feature memorable collaborations.

Traditional music icon Sharon Shannon will join forces with Irish singer Lucia Evans and The Late Late Show House Band throughout the evening. Rock guitarist Scott Gorham will pay tribute to Irish legend Phil Lynott, followed by a performance of Old Town by The Stunning.

Adding further energy, comic-musician Garron Noone will team up with The Stunning for a performance billed as one of the night’s highlights.

Conversations, reflection and celebration

Alongside the music, Patrick Kielty will be joined in studio by a diverse group of guests, including Irish heptathlete Kate O’Connor, Olympic rower Fintan McCarthy, architect Dermot Bannon and cast members from the hit series Traitors Ireland.

Lyra, Garron Noone and David Gray will also step away from the stage for relaxed chats with the host, adding warmth and personal reflection to the evening’s celebrations.

Live countdown from Dublin Castle

The night will conclude with a live outdoor countdown from Dublin Castle, where Inhaler will take to the stage to welcome 2026 in front of a jubilant crowd.

Presenter Kayleigh Trappe will guide viewers through the final moments of the year as a spectacular fireworks display lights up the historic landmark.

Host of the Late Late Show New Year Eve Show, Patrick Kielty said:

“It’s going to be a night of music, laughter and celebration as we look back on the year gone by and look forward to what’s ahead. We can’t wait to ring in 2026 with everyone watching at home and the crowd at Dublin Castle.”

When to watch

The Late Late Show New Year’s Eve Show airs Wednesday 31 December at 10.25pm on RTÉ One and RTÉ Player, offering viewers a front-row seat to Ireland’s biggest end-of-year celebration.