Portarlington’s Monthly Open Mic at The Anvil Inn Continues to Thrive After Three Incredible Years

Portarlington, Co. Laois — The Portarlington Collective is proud to celebrate the ongoing success of its monthly Open Mic night, held upstairs in the intimate acoustic room of The Anvil Inn. Now in its third year, the event has grown into a cherished local tradition and a vibrant platform for performers of all kinds.

Held on one Friday of every month(depending), the Open Mic draws between 8 to 20 acts each night, featuring an eclectic mix of original music, heartfelt covers, and powerful spoken word performances. Whether you're a seasoned musician or stepping on stage for the first time, this event offers a welcoming and supportive environment to share your talents with a live audience.

The unique format keeps the night spontaneous and fair. Anyone who wishes to perform simply arrives early and puts their name in the hat. Acts are pulled at random and can perform 2–3 songs or approximately 15 minutes to shine on stage. The performance space, which accommodates around 60 people, provides an intimate, acoustically rich atmosphere that enhances every performance.

Over the past three years, the Open Mic has become a launchpad for local talent, with several regular performers going on to secure slots at major festivals like Forest Fest for two consecutive years. It’s proof that great things can happen when community, creativity, and opportunity come together.

“The energy in the room is electric,” says a spokesperson for The Portarlington Collective. “There’s something truly special about watching people find their voice and connect with an audience in such a personal setting. We’re so proud of what this night has become.”

If you’re an artist looking to share your work or a music lover eager to discover new talent, all are welcome. The Open Mic starts promptly at 8:30 PM — be sure to arrive early to secure your place in the lineup or grab a seat before the room fills up.

Join us upstairs at The Anvil Inn and be part of one of Laois’s most exciting and inclusive live performance events.

For more information, follow The Portarlington Collective on www.portartcollective.ie, www.instagram.com/portartcollective, www.facebook.com/portartcollective