New research shows €846 million spent directly on paid arts events  

A further €664 million is spent in the broader economy before and after events 

New Arts Council research published today has shown the significant contribution of arts events to the Irish economy, putting the total spend at €1.5 billion.  

The ‘Arts Events Related Spend National Survey 2024’, is the first part of a multi-part Arts Council research project. In addition to gathering data on how people spend their money on arts events, the survey also examined the financial benefits that the arts and culture can bring to other sectors of the economy. 

The research comprised a nationally representative survey conducted online via Ipsos B&A’s online consumer research panel (Acumen) in December 2024. Over 1,000 interviews were completed.  

The research analysis also drew on the results from the annual Arts Insight, the national arts engagement survey which was published in February, to deliver an estimate of the spending associated with attending Arts Activities events over a 12-month period. 

Key findings include:  

• Entrance to an event generally only accounts for around 56% of a person’s spending, with the broader economy accounting for 44% of overall spending 
• Spending in the broader economy includes expenditure on cafes, restaurants, bars, hotels and transport.  
• The average spend per individual attendance is €51.50. Per attendance spend peaks significantly for evening events and in Dublin.  

"This work once again highlights the value of the arts to the Irish economy. This research clearly shows that an investment in the arts is an investment into the entire economy. This research is hugely valuable in showing that the arts, in whatever format they may be, play a vital role in supporting economies around the country.  

The arts bring joy to so many people from those who attend festivals, music concerts, and exhibitions. That there is an economic dividend to such events is an added bonus."

Maura McGrath, Chair of the Arts Council

"Art has many purposes – to connect and communicate, to preserve and share culture, and to allow people to express emotions, thoughts and experiences.   

The arts are at the centre of Irish life and it’s clear that this is a sense of pride for those who both make art and the audiences who enjoy them. This research shows that when audiences support arts events, they boost the economy as well – bringing an added value to the Government’s investment in the Arts Council."

Patrick O’Donovan, Minister for Communications, Culture and Sport

https://artscouncil.ie/news/annual-spend-on-attending-arts-events-tops-e1-5bn/