Impressive Louth double at IMRO Live Music Awards

There were celebrations across north Louth last week as the popular Dundalk venue The Spirit Store and the boutique music festival Aurfest took home top awards at the IMRO Live Music Awards 2026. The awards, which recognise venues, festivals, promoters, and crews shaping Ireland’s live music landscape, were presented at a ceremony in the Guinness Storehouse on Wednesday 21 April, hosted by Tom Dunne and Rachel Mae Hannon. The Spirit Store on Georges Quay was named the winner of both Leinster Venue of the Year and Venue Technical Crew of the Year. This is a major coup for the venue, which celebrated its 25th anniversary last year and welcomes big-name stars like Paul Young and The Frames, alongside young up-and-coming musicians. Hundreds of venues across Ireland qualified for the awards, and IMRO members nominated their top choices in an online poll. Judging criteria included ambience, staging, sound and lighting facilities, diversity of music programming, accessibility for people with disabilities, venue staff and management, and their promotional efforts. The Spirit Store shared news of their wins on social media, thanking staff, artists, and punters for their support. Dundalk’s boutique music and arts festival Aurfest was named Small Music Festival of the Year, marking a significant early success for the independent festival ahead of its second outing in July. Founded by a collective of Dundalk-based musicians, comedians, and event professionals, Aurfest takes place in Bellurgan Park and features music, comedy, DJ sets, storytelling, and homegrown artists. A delighted Sonya Larrigan, one of the Aurfest co-founders, expressed excitement over the win, calling it incredible recognition for their second year. They emphasized the festival’s focus on showcasing local talent and creating an intimate experience. Both venues highlight the growing cultural and economic importance of regional festivals in Ireland.