Merchy Christmas is a real-life merch market where all your favourite artists flog their wares directly to their fans, meaning that there’s no outrageous 25% of the takings owed to the venue (yes, that’s what some venues are charging).
As we are all well aware by now, band merchandise sales can maintain a band going on tour, making a record or paying off debts so this has been a godsend to many of our fine acts over the last few years, with the added bonus of donating much needed funds to deserving charities and causes.
Established during the Christmas lockdown in 2020, it was the brainwave of Conor Cusack (Saint Sister’s manager) and Saint Sister. Chatting about ways to create a personal connection with their listeners and thank them for their support over the difficult year, they had the idea of a communal merch stall mixed with a Christmas market.
Working with the folks at The Grand Social (longstanding champions of the independent music community) they put together a two-day event across multiple floors, which was hugely successful. 2021 saw the market return in full force. Once again, amidst challenging restrictions, it raised much-needed funds for the artists, and for a significant cause, Homelessness in Dublin.
Now in its fifth year, the crew are again focusing on helping to raise much-needed funds for those in need. Levels of homelessness in Dublin are higher than ever, and they are proud to help raise money to support the much-needed work of Dublin Simon Community.
In addition to helping those at home, Merchy Christmas is also raising money for those who need help further afield. Specifically, those suffering in Palestine. This year, alongside Dublin Simon Community, the event is proudly partnering with The Palestine Children’s Relief Fund (PCRF).
Last year the event raised close to €15,000 for the two charities and this year organisers are hoping to raise more to share between the two charity partners.
A jumbo raffle will take place each day, with limited-edition merch kindly donated by the artists taking part across the weekend. There will also be incredible live performances across the weekend to be revealed closer to the time.
Here’s some of the artists who will be there in person so it’s a great opportunity to go in and tell them how much their music means to you.
Ahmed, With Love, Aoife Nessa Frances, Celaviedmai, Cruel Sister, Curtisy, Gemma Dunleavy, Gilla Band, Gurriers, John Francis Flynn, Junior Brother, Khakikid, Kojaque, Lankum, Loah, Morgana, Nealo, Niamh Regan, Overhead the Albatross, Pillow Queens, Rachael Lavelle, Saint Sister, Silverbacks, SOAK, The Mary Wallopers, The Scratch, THUMPER and lots more TBA.
Merchy Christmas is at The Grand Social from 11am- 7pm on Saturday December 14th & Sunday December 15th 2024
Admission: FREE with a suggested donation of €6, split between Dublin Simon Community & The Palestine Children’s Relief Fund (PCRF)
