Festivals in Galway | Events in Galway

Festivals & Events

Galway is a vibrant city with a deep curiosity for the arts and this leads the city to be known as the 'City of Festivals'.

Events for all ages and tastes take place right throughout the year from St. Patrick’s Day in March, the Galway Comedy Festival in October or the festive Christmas Markets in December.

Discover some examples below of the fun-filled festivals hosted in Galway city.

Galway International Arts Festival

This annual cultural extravaganza consists of 14 days of music, film and art events in locations all around Galway City and County. It usually takes place during the summer in late July but dates vary from year to year, so make sure to double check the schedule. Every interest within the arts is catered for, such as: street performances, live music, art installations, live talks, dance acts, plays, poem readings and acrobats just to name a few.

The Galway Races

One of Ireland’s most recognised racing events, save the date. The Galway Races takes place just after the Galway International Arts festival. This is another huge annual event where over the course of a week the population of the city soars. The busiest days of the festival are Wednesday, which the famous “Galway Plate” race is held and also Thursday “Ladies Day” where the world of high fashion meets horse racing.

Galway International Oyster Festival

The Foodie scene in Galway has exploded over the last 10 years and with the City designated as the European Region of Gastronomy last year, we are simply spoilt for choice. The Oyster Festival is held annually all along the west coast of Ireland during the last week of September. The festivals is a celebration of food and drink, with competitions, talks, parties and events held in stunning locations. The festival is synonymous with Guinness so guests will likely see some great specials for both food and drink on our menu’s during this time.

Macnas Parade

The annual Halloween parade by Macnas, a pioneering, inventive and radical creative performance group. This event has attracted crowds of up to 50,000 attendees in the past as it travels along a 1.5 mile route. The Parade is best witnessed through the eyes of a child as the pieces are designed with wonderment in mind.

Galway Film Fleadh

The Galway Film Fleadh is Ireland’s leading film event: a six day International Film Festival on the edge of Europe, featuring Ireland’s only film & TV marketplace, the Galway Film Fair. The Galway Film Fleadh is a great activity for any itinerary. This is great showcase of the wonderful talent, arts and drama in the City.