Laois County Council has announced the return of their Café Evening Opening Grant Initiative, in an effort to boost Portlaoise's nighttime economy.

First trialed in July, the Council invited cafés to extend their opening hours beyond 6pm to host a wide range of night-time events.

Reporting the fund as a great success, the Council has invited Portlaoise cafés to apply for funding to extend their opening hours on the evening of Halloween.

Pictured: Laois County Council promotes new fund to stimulate Portlaoise's night-time culture. Pictured: File photo

This initiative supports the growth of Portlaoise’s night-time economy and encourages a vibrant, welcoming town centre.

The fund 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.

Pictured: a poster advertising the fund 

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

Portlaoise cafés who wish to apply must commit to extending their opening hours, and are interested in piloting evening and night-time events.

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