Ray O’Donoghue to Focus on Dublin Night-Time Economy as Sea Sessions Festival Pauses in 2025

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5th June 2025

Dublin City Council’s Night-Time Economy Advisor, Ray O’Donoghue, has formally stepped down from his role with the iconic Sea Sessions Surf & Music Festival to dedicate himself full-time to supporting and developing Dublin’s night-time culture.

The festival will take a break in 2025, with ongoing discussions about its potential return in a refreshed format in the future.

Ray, who joined Sea Sessions in 2010, played a central role in growing the Donegal-based event into one of Ireland’s most distinctive and celebrated summer festivals — blending music, surf, sport, and beach culture in the vibrant setting of Bundoran.

Reflecting on his decision, Mr. O’Donoghue said:

“I’ve been promoting festivals and live events since 1999, from early gigs in Dublin to my first festival, Coastal Beats, on the west coast. Sea Sessions has been a huge part of that journey, and I’ve loved seeing it grow into one of the country’s best-loved festivals. But now, I feel the time is right to focus fully on my role with Dublin City Council.

Being Night-Time Economy Advisor is a big undertaking, and my experience running events has given me valuable insight. Dublin’s night-time culture is evolving, and I’m excited to play a part in reimagining how the city comes alive after dark — with safer, more inclusive, accessible, and vibrant options for everyone.”

Sea Sessions has earned numerous accolades, including the IMRO Award for Best Festival, regularly attracting up to 10,000 attendees per day. Known for its unique mix of live music, surfing competitions, and laid-back atmosphere, the festival has hosted acts such as Dermot Kennedy, Tinie Tempah, Primal Scream, Dizzee Rascal, Bastille, The Coronas, and Kodaline.

The official statement from the organisers reads:

“Sorry for being so quiet… Sea Sessions is taking a break in 2025. We hope to be back with more information soon.”

Ray O’Donoghue now leads Dublin City Council’s efforts to develop a vibrant, safe, and inclusive night-time economy — driving pilot initiatives and long-term strategies that support cultural activity, improve access, and encourage new uses of public space and venues after 6pm.