Culture night is promising a full-force return with an extensive lineup and a buzz across the country.

Museums, galleries, heritage sites, government buildings and more will open their doors from 4pm until late, inviting visitors to explore places that would otherwise not be accessible to the public.

The 1700 free events will vary from live music, spoken word poetry, and other performances.

Dublin Bus

Dublin Bus will provide three customised routes to bring event-goers around the city this evening.

Event organisers have partnered with Dublin Bus to create an easy - and free - way for the public to enjoy this year's jam-packed programme of events.

The buses will be in operation from 6pm and will depart every 20 minutes from routes starting at College Green, Bachelor’s Walk and Aston Quay.

A number of pop-up performances will take place on the buses, featuring performances from hip-hop, jazz and soul groups, as well as entertainer and 'life-sized Barbie' Regina and The Queens’ world-class drag show.

Free books

Additonally, over 4500 books will be given away for free today at bus and train stations not just in Dublin, but across the country.

The 'Read More' initiative will feature famous and up-and-coming Irish authors and will be available to pick up on interrail and Bus Éireann services.

Live music

In Dublin City, a host of Irish DJs will will perform at Smithfield's old fruit and vegetable market.

Meeting House Square in Temple Bar is set to host live music that includes a ukelele band and a Korean drumming group.

Performances will also take place in the likes of the Liberties, Tallaght and Coolock.

In Limerick, electric music will travel through the historic St. John's Castle.

Minister for Arts Tourism and Culture Catherine welcomed the return of the full-scale countrywide experience.

"This is a signal of how we want to support and develop our nighttime economies", she told Newstalk.