Open mic events are the best way for musicians who are just starting out to take their talent from behind the scenes out into a live audience. Even for established artists, an open mic can be a great way to try out new material and build confidence in front of an audience outside of your typical fanbase.

Before we list all of the great opportunities for your open mic performance in venues across Belfast, let’s firstly look at how you can best prepare.

How to prepare for your open mic performance

When preparing for your open mic performance, there are several key steps to ensure a smooth and successful experience. First, you should scope out open mic nights in advance - you can start by reading the list of open mic events listed in this blog! Knowing the venues and schedules can help you plan effectively. Before signing up as a performer, you should attend the open mic night as an audience member to check out the vibe and familiarise yourself with the venue. Consider speaking with the event organiser while you’re there to introduce yourself and build a friendly rapport.

Don't forget the power of social media. Spreading the word about your performance on socials can boost your visibility and connect you with fellow artists and potential fans. As you arrive at the venue, make sure you have everything you need, from spare strings and a tuner to a capo. Punctuality is key; always adhere to your allocated time slot and arrive early for your set.

Prepare at least half an hour's worth of material in case you're asked to play longer or even offered additional gigs or support opportunities. If storytelling is part of your act, try to keep it concise when time is limited, and focus on your music. Be proactive in introducing yourself to other artists and inquire in advance if it's acceptable to display your merch. At the end of your performance, share links to your social media accounts if possible.

After wrapping up the performance, show appreciation by thanking the sound engineer and the event organiser. If audience members approach you with compliments, take the opportunity to gather email addresses for your mailing list. Check if there's a complimentary drink or small gratuity for your performance. Lastly, remain patient and adaptable; live shows can have unexpected challenges, but every experience is a valuable story in the making.

Open mic events in Belfast

Now that you know how to prepare for performance, let’s take a look at the regular open mic events happening across Belfast!

Sunflower Open Mic

The Sunflower is known for its warm and welcoming atmosphere, so this is the vibe you can expect at their open mic night. Musicians, poets and comedians are all encouraged to take the stage and share their talents.

Day: Every Monday

Time: 7PM

Location: Sunflower Public House, 65 Union Street, BT1 2JG

Lavery’s Improvised Jam Session

Local talents in rap, r&b, soul, funk and more are encouraged to take part in this monthly jam session which has performances from both established and up-and-coming artists. Hosted by Belfast Groove Collective.

Day: First Monday of every month

Time: 8PM

Location: Lavery’s, 12-18 Bradbury Place, BT71RS

Youth Open Mic

Belfast’s only all-ages open mic event specifically for young musicians under 18s to gain confidence performing live in front of a supportive audience at Oh Yeah. Both original music and covers are welcome! To find out more, contact caoimhe@ohyeahbelfast.com

Day: One Sunday every two months - check here for the next event

Time: 12PM

Location: Oh Yeah Music Centre, 15-21 Gordon Street, BT1 2LG

Sailortown Open Mic

A weekly open mic in the cosy, friendly upstairs setting of The American Bar. Hosted by Belfast’s guitar maestro David Browne Murray.

Day: Every Sunday

Time: 7PM

Location: The American Bar, 65 Dock Street, BT15 1LF

Gordon Street Demos

All performers are welcome across genres and ability levels for the weekly open mic session at 39 Gordon Street. They also have special offers on tacos and margaritas, so you can treat yourself after playing your set!

Day: Every Thursday

Time: 7PM

Location: 39 Gordon Street, BT1 2LH

EastSide Open Mic Night

This East Belfast open mic is open to a variety of performers who want to showcase their music, poems, stories and more. Keep an eye on their Facebook page for all announcements on upcoming events.

Day: First Friday of every month

Time: 7PM

Location: Templemore Baths, 96 Templemore Avenue, BT 5 4FW

Open Sessions

Hosted by established musician Rory Nellis, this event at The Second Fiddle welcomes musicians to perform original songs in a supportive environment of local music enthusiasts. You’ll even be rewarded with a free pint after your performance!

Day: First Sunday of every month

Time: 7PM

Location: The Second Fiddle, Cotton Court, 30-42 Waring Street, BT1 2ED

The Errigle Open Mic Sundays

This event is also hosted by the wonderful Rory Nellis and promises a free pint to performers as well! All in the classic setting of The Errigle on South Belfast’s Ormeau Road.

Day: Last Sunday of every month

Time: 8PM

Location: The Errigle, 312-320 Ormeau Road, BT7 2GE

Voodoo Open Mic

New talent is especially welcome at Voodoo’s long-standing Thursday night open mic. This venue is perfect for rock, metal or alternative artists, however all genres are welcome.

Day: Every Thursday

Time: 9PM

Location: Voodoo, 11A Fountain Street, BT1 5EA

Cosmic Jam

A new addition to Belfast’s open mic circuit, Accidental Theatre’s Cosmic Jam is catered toward performers and audiences that are interested in diverse and experimental jamming.

Day: One Thursday per month - dates may vary. Check here for updates

Time: 7.30PM

Location: Accidental Theatre, 12-13 Shaftesbury Square, BT2 7DB

Ulster Sports Club Open Mic

USC Open Mic brings together the whole music community of Belfast for a night of music, networking and fun! To date, it is the only open mic hosted by a female artist (Ria Timkin) in Belfast and its whole existence is aimed at championing original music, giving an opportunity to artists of all genres to showcase their talents on the beautiful stage of the Lounge.

Day: Last Wednesday of each month

Time: 8 pm

Location: Ulster Sports Club, The Lounge, 96-98 High Street, Belfast, BT1 2BG 

We aim to keep all information on Belfast’s open mic events as up-to-date as possible. If you see anything that’s missing or needs amended, please get in touch and let us know!