Into the Night 2026

Into the Night ‘26 is a summer house music event that runs across one long July evening at Bennigans Bar on John Street in Derry city centre. Organised by The LoT, this is the kind of night that regulars plan well in advance - a lineup of six DJs, two distinct spaces to move between, and an atmosphere that builds from a warm Saturday afternoon into the early hours of Sunday morning. If you like your dance music served on vinyl and prefer a late bar with genuine character over a commercial club, this is worth the trip.

What to expect

The night runs from 6 pm to 2 am, giving it an unhurried, festival-feel arc rather than the usual late-start club format. The outdoor courtyard hosts vinyl-only sets from Paul Boyle, Flounder, and Paul Joyce - expect carefully selected house records played on decks rather than a laptop, which tends to attract a crowd that actually listens. As the evening moves on, the action shifts inside to the wee room where Mickey Mac, Eamonn Jennings, and Gary Dodds take over. The organisers describe it as “house music all night long” with past favourites and a couple of debut performers on the bill.

Bennigans itself is a well-liked venue - compact and sociable, with its own record shop and a mini art gallery tucked inside. It is the kind of place where the staff know their regulars and the sound is managed by people who care about it. Saturday nights fill up quickly and tickets are available in advance on Eventbrite at £7, so booking ahead is the sensible move.

Getting there

Derry is well served by road from both the Republic and Northern Ireland. The main Dublin to Derry route runs via the M1/A5, roughly a two-hour drive; from Belfast it is under an hour on the A6. Derry’s bus station on Foyle Street is a short walk from the venue, and Translink operate regular services from Belfast and Letterkenny. The nearest train station is Derry/Londonderry on the Belfast-Derry line. John Street is right in the city centre, close to the Guildhall and the old city walls. Street parking is available in the surrounding area, though on a Saturday evening you will likely need to use one of the multi-storeys nearby.

While you’re in Derry

Derry is a city with a lot going for it beyond the night itself. The walled city, the Bogside murals, and the Peace Bridge all repay a couple of hours on foot, and there are good places to eat along Shipquay Street and in the Craft Village before the evening kicks off. There is more to see in Derry and across Co. Derry.

Good to know

• Date: Saturday 18 July 2026, doors from 6:00 pm, runs until 2:00 am
• Price: £7
• Venue: Bennigans Bar, John Street, Derry BT48 6JY
• Tickets: Eventbrite - book in advance, Saturday nights sell out
• Refunds available up to 7 days before the event