Discover Galway
Galway has always been a hub for everything craic and culture. The City of the Tribes has events happening all throughout the year but it is during the summer months we are just spoiled for choice. Below is but a taste of what's on offer in Galway city - so if you're in the mood for an adventure, if you want to experience something different or even if you just want to distract the kids for a few hours - there's nearly always something on.
Simply click on the title of the event below to find out more information...
April:
1. Cúirt International Festival Of Literature
The Cúirt International Festival of Literature is Ireland’s premier literary event. The 2024 festival will run from 23 – 28 April, 2024 and feature an eclectic and exciting range of Irish and international writers in Galway for readings, workshops, discussions, book signings and much, much more.
May:
The Bealtaine Festival 2024 will see hundreds of events for, by and featuring older people all across Ireland, offering theatre, visual arts, music and more. This year’s theme is “Lust for Life” by writer Liz McManus. The Bealtaine Festival is Ireland’s unique nationwide celebration of creativity as we age and is an initiative of Age & Opportunity.
The Galway Food Festival returns as part of the ‘Blas Na Gaillimhe – A Taste of Galway’ network of food organisations that recognise the distinctive hospitality that Galway provides all year long, with special events planned for the month of May.
Galway Theatre Festival features 9 days of exciting theatre, circus, spectacle, and storytelling, showcasing the vibrant performance culture of Ireland’s festival city.
Galway Bike Week is expected to take place from the 11th – 19 May 2024 as part of National Bike Week, with cycling events all over Galway county, organised by local authorities, community groups, charities and cycling groups.
5. An Tóstal Salthill Festival
If you’re searching for something to do in early May, why not take up a spot by the sea to witness the amazing sight of dozens of racing currachs as they take to the water for the An Tóstal Salthill Festival.
6. Galway Early Music Festival
The Galway Early Music Festival celebrates its 28th birthday in 2024 with old world music and arts and features concerts, workshops, street performances of music, dance and historical re-enactment.
7. Tour de Conamara Cycling Sportive
Tour de Conamara is the Irish leg of a new international cycling sportive held in Clifden Connemara, with the option of 140km and 80km routes. A 14km Family cycle with free cycling tuition for kids will be hosted during the weekend making it a cycling weekend with something for everyone
Celebrating it’s 135th year the Athenry Agricultural Show is one of Ireland’s longest running agricultural community events. With many exhibitor classes to choose from and a great showjumping and equestrian program of events, there will be something for everyone on the day.
June:
1. Headfest
Headfest is a family friendly festival. The Headford annual community festival takes place over the June Bank Holiday weekend from from Friday 31st May to Sunday 2nd June 2024. A temporary arena is expected to be based in the Moyne Villa F.C sportsgrounds for the duration of the festival.
2. Salthill Fives National Soccer Tournament
Salthill Devon’s popular five-a-side festival is expected to return this June Bank Holiday (June 1st and 2nd 2024) in Salthill Park. Expect to see a great mix of Galway natives, visitors and friends gather to enjoy this great footballing festival in the scenic location of Salthill Park, overlooking Galway Bay.
3. Lasta National Arts Festival
Galway, renowned for its vibrant arts scene, is gearing up to host the third Lasta National Arts Festival from June 1 to 12. The Town Hall Theatre, among seven venues nationwide, eagerly anticipates a showcase programmed by and for young people.
After a successful inaugural festival last year, the 3rd Galway Folk Festival, will take place from 5 to 9 June, 2024 over four stages in Monroe’s Tavern and at Seapoint Ballroom in Salthill, Galway, with some of the biggest names in current Irish folk music involved.
The Medieval Summer Fête at St. Nicholas’ Church is expected to return on Saturday June 8 2024 (to be confirmed). Running from 10:30am-2:30pm, you are invited to join the organisers for Medieval Music and Dance, Medieval craft and re-enactments of Sword Fighting and much more.
6. Claregalway Agricultural Show
The Claregalway Agricultural Show features classes for horses/ponies, cattle, sheep and dogs in the outdoor arena. There are indoor arts, crafts, home baking, horticulture, photography and flower arranging classes too. There will be live music and novelty events such as the donkey derby, best dressed lady, glamorous granny competitions.
Get ready for an incredible weekend filled with live music, dancing, and unforgettable performances at the Clifden Showgrounds in 2024. Expect a lineup that will leave you thrilled and wanting more. So mark your calendars and bring your friends along for an unforgettable experience!
Bia Lover is a food festival will provide an exhibition in Athenry for quality food and drink suppliers based primarily in the west of Ireland. Parallel events include cookery demonstrations, food talks, a producers market on Saturday & Sunday in the park and partnership food and drink trails with local pubs, restaurants and farms from Friday.
9. Corrundulla Agricultural Show
Join us at the Corrandulla Agricultural Show, a delightful family fun day out where there’s something for everyone. Prepare to be captivated by an array of exciting events and activities.
10. Féile na mBád
Regatta in Kilkieran, Co. Galway displaying unique Irish boats, such as currachs and Galway Hookers including the Bád Mór, Gleoiteog, Leathbhád and Púcán classes of boat traditionally used throughout Galway Bay, along the coast of Connemara and North Clare.
July:
