Two Laois cafés will host nighttime gigs this week, as part of Laois County Council's 'late night café culture' campaign in Portlaoise.

Local band Byro (formerly Coolboy) recently starred in an RTÉ television music series, An Ghig Mhór.

Byro are a four-piece indie rock band comprising of Tadgh O’Dwyer (lead vocals and guitar), Fionn Devoy (lead guitar), Ruairi Phelan (Drums) and Alex Power (Bass Guitar).

Byro will perform in Square Coffee, Portlaoise from 6pm on Thursday, July 31.

Also performing on Thursday is DJ General, who will steal the show at LemonNick café from 6pm.

There is free admission to both gigs, with limited seating. Seating will be allocated on a first come, first served basis.

This initiative from the Council aims to diversify nightlife by expanding evening options, and offering 'an enhanced experience' to locals. 

It also aims to stimulate local economy by increasing the dwelling time of people within the town, and encouraging additional footfall to increase revenue streams for businesses during evening hours.

"The types of programming we envisage and encourage include live performances from local bands, intimate acoustic and DJ sets, spoken word and poetry, comedy, book clubs, workshops and tastings, and themed nights," the Council said.

"We also encourage programming that appeals to a youth audience, creating a welcoming and inclusive space for all."

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