NFL Dublin 2025 – Two Huge American Football Events in One City
NFL Dublin brings two major American football events to the capital in 2025. First up is the return of the Aer Lingus College Football Classic, with Kansas State vs Iowa State at Aviva Stadium on Saturday 23rd August. Then, later in the year, Ireland hosts its first-ever NFL regular-season game, as the Pittsburgh Steelers take on the Minnesota Vikings at Croke Park, with the date still to be confirmed.
Whether you're visiting for college football or the historic NFL matchup, The Merchant’s Arch is the ideal place to eat, drink, and soak up the atmosphere, just minutes from both stadiums and right in the heart of Temple Bar.
The Ultimate Irish Experience for American Football Fans
Just across the Ha’penny Bridge in the heart of Temple Bar, The Merchant’s Arch is ideally located for fans attending either of Dublin’s two major American football events in 2025. Whether you’re here for the College Football Classic at Aviva Stadium or the historic NFL Dublin showdown at Croke Park, we’re just minutes from both stadiums.
We’re open from 9am ‘til late, serving up breakfast, lunch, and dinner daily, with live Irish music kicking off in the afternoons. Whether you’re fuelling up before the game or celebrating after the final whistle, we’ve got the atmosphere, food, and drinks to match the occasion.
If you’re looking for a traditional Irish experience and wondering where to eat when the American football comes to Dublin, or looking for a true taste of the city, you’ve just found your go-to pub.
Make the Most of Your Time in Dublin During Game Week
Planning a visit around the city while American football takes over Dublin? Whether you're flying in for the College Football Classic or staying on for the NFL clash later in the year, The Merchant’s Arch is your go-to pub throughout the week, right in the heart of Temple Bar.
Start the day with a proper Irish breakfast, drop in for a midday pint and lunch, or round off your night with dinner and live music. Open from 9am ‘til late, we’re here whenever hunger strikes.
👉 View Our Breakfast Menu
👉 View Our Lunch Menu
👉 View Our Dinner Menu
Looking for a pub with a real traditional Irish atmosphere? Our daily live music sessions feature some of the best emerging Irish talent, playing a mix of traditional tunes, upbeat classics, and crowd favourites. Whether you're in for a quick pint or settling in for the night, our live music is not to be missed.
Travelling with a Group?
We’ve got you covered. From fan clubs and alumni groups to corporate trips, our upstairs spaces can host large parties with pre-set menus, party platters, or full sit-down meals.
For sit-down dinners, we cater for groups from 2 to 100 guests. If you're planning a more casual cocktail-style evening, our private room caters for up to 150 guests, with the option to book out the entire venue for 300+ guests.
Dublin’s Best Live Music – All Day, Every Day
At The Merchant’s Arch, the music never stops. We showcase the best emerging talent in Dublin alongside seasoned performers who bring traditional Irish ballads, modern folk, and lively pub classics to life. Expect fiddles, guitars, and sing-along favourites that capture the true spirit of Temple Bar.
🎶 Live Music Times
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Monday to Thursday: From 5pm until late
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Friday, Saturday & Sunday: From 12pm straight through into the early hours
Whether you’re dropping in for a pre-game pint or carrying the celebrations long after the final whistle, our stage is always alive with energy.
Staying for a Few Days?
If you're in town for a long weekend or a full game week, there's plenty to see, eat, and experience while American football takes over Dublin. From sightseeing and pub hopping to chilled-out afternoons with live music and a pint in hand, The Merchant’s Arch is the perfect base between stadium runs.
We’re just steps from Dublin’s top landmarks, and always a few minutes’ walk from the best of Temple Bar. Whether you’re looking for a hearty breakfast before exploring, a relaxing lunch stop, or a lively dinner with friends, you’ll find it here.
Need help planning your downtime, check out our guides
👉 Your Ultimate Guide to Visiting Temple Bar Dublin
👉 15 Fun Things to Do Near Temple Bar, Dublin
👉 Dublin Airport to Temple Bar – Transport Tips
Contact Our Team Today
Food Served:
• Breakfast: 9am – 12pm daily
• Lunch: 12pm – 3pm daily
• Dinner: 3pm – 10.30pm daily
Live Music:
• Monday to Thursday: from 5pm to close
• Friday to Sunday: from 12pm to early hours
Transport:
Just 10 minutes from Aviva Stadium or Croke Park by taxi or public transport