Monthly Blues Jam at McKenna's Bar

McKenna’s Bar on Dublin Street in Monaghan town runs what locals call the longest running blues jam in the country, held upstairs in the Brewery bar on the last Friday of every month. Musicians bring their own guitars, harmonicas and amps, and anyone who plays is welcome to sit in alongside the regulars for a few numbers. The next date falls on Friday, 24 July 2026, from 10pm.

What to expect

The Brewery is McKenna’s smaller upstairs room, decked out with dark wood, barrel tables and exposed brick, built for a late night session rather than a big stage show. There is no set list and no headline act. A core group of regular players anchors the night, working through blues, rock and roots numbers, and other musicians and singers can ask to join in on a song. McKenna’s itself dates back to 1936 and has two bars: the Anchor downstairs for a traditional pint, and the Brewery upstairs for the live music and DJ nights. The pub also runs an open mic every Thursday, so between the two nights it is one of the more consistent live music addresses in Monaghan town outside the hotel circuit.

Getting there

McKenna’s is on Dublin Street in Monaghan town centre, close to the Diamond and within walking distance of the rest of the town’s pubs. There is on street parking nearby, though it gets busy on a Friday night.

While you’re in Monaghan

McKenna’s sits a short walk from the rest of Monaghan town centre, so it is easy to combine the jam with dinner or a few pints elsewhere beforehand. There is more to see in Monaghan and across Co. Monaghan.

Good to know

• Date: Friday, 24 July 2026, then the last Friday of every month
• Time: From 10pm, in the Brewery bar upstairs
• Venue: McKenna’s Bar, 62 Dublin Street, Monaghan
• Price: Free entry
• Recurrence: Monthly, last Friday of the month