Untitled - Galway County Council

Féile na Ceardlainne
2nd - 3rd May
Féile na Ceardlainne, a free Festival of Art, Craft, Music and Dance
celebrating the very best of Irish craft and design will take place at
Ceardlann, home to nine unique Arts, Craft and Design studios in Spiddal
village whose members have planned free open day workshops for people
of all ages to try their hand at craft.
more info: www.ceardlann.com
Galway Theatre Festival
1st - 9th May
The Galway Theatre Festival, now in it’s seventh year, will take place
throughout the city. Galway theatre companies feature heavily in the
programme with Blue Teapot, Mephisto, Fregoli, Moonfish, and Vagabond all
involved.
more info: www.galwaytheatrefestival.com
Inishbofin Arts Festival
1st - 3rd May
Situated on the stunningly scenic and historic island of Inishbofin, this Arts
Festival is a colourful and eclectic mix of music, dance, visual arts, crafts,
heritage, poetry, creative workshops and fun family activities.
more info: www.inishbofin.com/arts_festival.html
Corofin Musical Society
13th - 16th May
Presenting the show “All Shook up” a new musical comedy in Dr. Duggan Hall,
Corofin. Show starts at 8pm all nights with an extra matinee performance on
Saturday 16th at 2.30pm. For more details ring: 086 2204082
Galway African Film Festival
arts
22nd – 24th May
4
NUIG – Houston School of Film.
The rich diversity of African films, animations, shorts, and documentaries,
offering both entertainment and a fresh perspective on life in the continent,
will be on show in Galway.
more info: www.galwayafricanfilmfestival.org
Inishbofin Literary and Cultural Festival
28th – 31st May
Inish: Island Conversations is a multi-disciplinary arts event taking place
on the picturesque Island of Inishbofin, featuring Kevin Barry, Declan
O’Rourke and more.
The CAFE Festival
Carabane Arts for Everyone
29th May – 31st June
Loughrea. It aims to be a community arts festival inspiring young and
old across East Galway to be part of celebrating and partaking in artistic
endeavour featuring music, theatre and family fun.
Aisteoirí Inis Oirr
July - August
Drama in English and a little Irish, every Wednesday evening for 8 weeks
during July and August in Halla Pobail, Áras Éanna, Inis Oírr.
Galway Film Fleadh
7th - 12th July
Town Hall Theatre, Cinemobile & IMC Cineplex
Film festival for feature films and shorts. 2015 marks the 27th Galway Film
Fleadh, and the central goal of the festival remains unchanged: to bring
together audiences and filmmakers within an intimate environment and
share a common experience.
more info: www.galwayfilmfleadh.com
Galway Fringe Festival
11th - 27th July
Galway Fringe Festival is Galway’s open-access multi-disciplinary Arts
Festival which hosts some of the best talent Galway has to offer as
well as attracting many great international acts. Encompassing theatre,
music, literature, visual arts, dance, circus, cabaret, street spectacle and
children’s events.
more info: www.galwayfringe.ie
arts
5
Galway International Arts Festival
13th - 26th July
One of Europe most inventive, vibrant & colorful events. A truly international
celebration of the performing and visual arts which takes place in and around
Galway City each July.
more info: www.giaf.ie
The Galway Potters Market
Spanish Arch, Galway
17th July & 18th July 10am – 7pm
Ceramic artists, selected from around the country, displaying and selling
their work. The hands-on area gives children and adults the opportunity to
make something themselves with clay and contributes to the very special
atmosphere of this increasingly popular events.
Inishoirr Film Festival /
Féile Scannánnaíochta Inis Oírr
24th- 26th July
Aras Eanna, Inis Oirr. Films dealing with political protest in Ireland in the
current context of Europe wide protest movements against austerity.
Oscar Wilde Festival
4th – 6th September
The festival aims to educate and entertain people about Wilde and leave a
lasting impression in their minds long after the festival is over.
more info: www.oscarwildefestival.com
Shorelines Arts Festival
17th - 20th September
arts
Portumna. East Galway’s boutique arts festival on the shores of Lough Derg.
A feast of workshops, readings, theatre, family street events await you.
more info: from 087 2931055 or www.shorelinesartsfestival.com
6
Clifden Arts Week
17th – 27th September
The longest running community arts festival in Ireland, Clifden Community
Arts Week, now in its 38th year yet again promises to have something
to excite everyone in this years programme. Clifden and the surrounding
hinterland are a central focus with creative writing, music, theatre,
graphic design and film workshops and performances taking place in the
local schools for the duration of the festival.
more info: www.clifdenartsweek.ie
Galway Culture Night
18th September
The event is now in its tenth year provides free access to museums,
galleries, theatres and public buildings. Culture Night is an annual event
that celebrates culture, creativity, and the arts. Exciting and unique events
take place on culture night such as street performances, music and dance
sessions, multicultural celebrations, exhibitions, film screenings and
cultural trails to name only a few.
more info: www.galwayculturenight.com
Lady Gregory Autumn Gathering
25th - 27th September
Each year since 1995 an Autumn Gathering has been held in Coole Park,
Gort to honour the memory of Lady Augusta Gregory (1852-1932).
The Lady Gregory Autumn Gathering programme will include lectures,
workshops and discussions on literature, creative writing, drama, novels,
poetry and local history.
Inishbofin Set dancing Festival
25th – 27th September
Inishbofin Island
Traditional Irish dancing
arts
7
25th Anniversary of the Film “The Field”
Leenane Village
26th -27th September 2015
Celebrate the anniversary of the Jim Sheridan film based on the John B. Keane
play ‘The Field’.
Sky Road TV & Film Festival
9th – 11th October
Sky Road TV & Film Festival is an exciting new three-day event, which is now
in its second year and takes place at the Station House Theatre, in Clifden, Co
Galway. The aim of Sky Road TV and Film Festival is to give Irish filmmakers a
better opportunity to screen their content at festival level.
more info: www.SkyRoadFilmFestival.ie
Why Not? Adventure Film Festival
10th October
The Why Not? Adventure Film Festival was started in Galway on November
2012 and is entirely run by a small team of volunteers with a passion for
adventure and music.
more info: www.whynotadventurefilmfestival.com
Baboró International
Arts Festival for Children
10th - 19th October
arts
Ireland’s premier international arts festival for children and families runs in
Galway city and county in mid October, featuring Theatre, Dance, Literature,
Music, Puppetry, Workshops and Visual Art for all ages. See the magic of
well-known stories come to dazzling life on the stage. Special treats are also
in store for everyone with beautiful exhibitions, readings and workshops.
more info: www.baboro.ie
8
Vodafone Comedy Carnival Galway
20th - 26th October 2015
The Galway Comedy Festival under the new name ‘Vodafone Comedy
Carnival Galway’ has grown since its beginning in 2005 to become a
major event on the comedy circuit in Ireland, regularly attracting big
international names to the city for week leading up to and including the
October Bank Holiday weekend.
more info: www.vodafonecomedycarnival.com
Tulca Festival of Visual Arts
6th - 22nd November
The Tulca Festival of Visual Arts is an annual festival taking place in Galway.
Running since 2002, Tulca features dynamic and exciting work from national
and international visual art practitioners.
more info: www.tulca.ie
Galway Film Centre’s Annual Film & TV Seminar
November
Showrunning, creative production, line producing and crowd funding
are just some of the topics covered in Galway Film Centre’s Annual
Film & TV Seminar.
more info: www.galwayfilmcentre.ie
Yeats Galway 2015
Yeats Galway 2015 is a year long celebration in County Galway of the 150th
anniversary of the birth of W.B.Yeats. During 2015 there will be a series of
events to highlight the Yeats connection to Galway.
Please refer to our website for our calendar of events www.yeatsgalway2015.ie
arts
9
Kinvara Farmers Market
Every Friday from March to December
Kinvara Farmers Market every Friday in Kinvara including local farm produce, local
crafts, free musical entertainment, along with local charitable organizations.
Flea Style Market
Last Saturday of every month
Factory night club 36 Abbeygate Street Galway. Time 12-5/6pm. Has
been running for almost three years now. Run by Sinead Lally from Cotton
Face Vintage on the last Saturday of every month. Located inside Factory
Nightclub on Abbeygate street and bustling with new thrifters every month.
Flea Style Market offers a crowd pleasing selection of vintage clothing,
records, books, pre-loved clothing, local crafts, homewares & cake! It’s hugely
popular with folk looking for friendly price tags, funky tunes and smiley faces.
more info: [email protected]
Coiste Féilte Cill Chiaráin
March - September
Cill Chiaráin, live music, film screenings, a céilí and sean-nós.
Leenane Mountain Walking Festival
1st - 3rd May
The Leenane Mountain Walking Festival includes a choice of high-level
mountain walks or a low-level option, and enjoy a unique combination of
mountain and sea along the way. There will be transport to and from the
mountains, including a speedboat across Killary Harbour to Mweelrea Mountain.
more info: www.leenanevillage.com
The Bealtaine Festival 2015 will see hundreds of events for, by and featuring
older people all across Ireland, offering theatre, visual arts, music and more.
The Bealtaine Festival is Ireland’s unique nationwide celebration of creativity
as we age and is an initiative of Age & Opportunity.
more info: www.bealtaine.com
community
arts
Bealtaine Festival 2015
1st - 31st May
11
International Mayfly Festival
7th – 10th May
Celebrating angling, local food, heritage, community and all that is special
about Oughterard.
Biodiversity Week Merlin Woods
18th - 24th May
Friends of Merlin Woods will run a week of free events celebrating the
Biodiversity of Merlin Park Woods Galway. Guided walks will be given explaining
the different aspects of Merlin Woods interesting habitat and how wonderful it is
to have this urban woodland on the doorsteps of the City of the Tribes.
more info: www.facebook.com/groups/128207273995064/
Inishbofin Walking Festival
22nd - 24th May
Inishbofin is widely considered to be Connemara’s best island for walking
and the Inishbofin Walking Festival is the perfect time to come and enjoy
the friendly and relaxed pace of Island life. Let enthusiastic professional and
local guides share their vast knowledge of local folklore, history, heritage and
ecology with you.
more info: www.inishbofin.com
Conamara Bog Week
community
arts
22nd May - 1st June
12
The annual Conamara Bog Week 2015 festival takes place in the Quaker
village of Letterfrack. This is the 31st year of the festival and the organisers
Conamara Environmental Education and Cultural Centre are promising an
exciting line up as usual.
more info: www.ceecc.org
Biodiversity REnville Park
24th May
It entails guided nature walks and talks for families with activities such as
pond dipping and bird spotting in the park. Local groups with biodiversity
interests are represented on the day and provide advice and demonstrations
to visitors e.g. the local branches of the Irish Wildlife Trust, Birdwatch Ireland,
the Vincent Wildlife Trust, local Crafters, the Galway Beekeepers and others.
Children can take part in nature related arts and crafts, face-painting etc.
The North Galway Vintage & Heritage Show
23rd - 24th May
Moylough. Promoting vintage, heritage and traditional farming practices
including turf and hay cutting, steam engines, pre 1984 vehicles, family fun day.
Spiddal Currach & Hooker Regatta
30th - 31st May
The Spiddal Currach & Hooker Regatta (Feile Curachai agus Báid Seoil an Spideal)
sees Currach racing and Galway Hooker racing along the shores of Spiddal
with family events on the beach such as tug-of-war and bouncy castle along &
traditional Irish music. Teams from all over the country will be taking part.
Galway Hooker Festival
30th - 31st May
2015 will be the second year of this festival celebrating Galway’s status as a
maritime city. The Galway Hooker Sea Festival will focus on maritime activities and
will feature family events, including seafood trails, music, dance and entertainment.
more info: www.galwayseafestival.com
Weekends from June - August
Demos, talks, woodcrafts and woodturning classes, bi-lingual, at Siopa Gala,
Indreabhán, Co. Galway ( 3 miles past An Spidéal (Spiddal) on main road in
the Conemara Gaeltacht.) by Pastime Chonamara. Fáilte roimh chách idir 3.00
agus 7.00 p.m. Give it a try and you could bring home your own souvenir from
Conemara. Contact: Máirtín Davy, 087 6998369.
more info: www.pastime chonamara.ie
community
arts
PASTIME CHONAMARA (PASTIME CONEMARA)
13
Traveller Pride Week
1st -7th June
Traveller Pride Week is a celebration of the contribution Travellers make to both
their own communities and to Irish Society as a whole. This includes celebrating
their culture, enterprise, sporting excellence and their unique history and tradition.
St. Kerrills festival
13th - 21st June
Gurteen, Ballinasloe. Celebrating St Kerrills day on June 13th with St Kerrills
sports and family fun day on June 21st.
Galway County Show
20th - 21st June
2 day agricultural show embracing show jumping, in-hand and riding classes
for horses and ponies. Sheep, Cattle, dogs, trade stands, funfair and other
childrens amusements and much more. All proceeds go to charity. Galway
Racecourse, Parkmore, Ballybrit.
Connemara Ecofest
21st June
Letterfrack. Community walks to explore the ecology of the unique environment.
Portumna Super Summer Fair
19th – 21st June
community
arts
Portuma
Fun for all the family, bbq, face painting, music food and arts
14
Baid Seoil Inis Meain
20th - 21st June
Inins Meain. Boat regatta with traditional Galway Hookers, ceile, sean-nós
dancing, basket weaving, traditional music.
Corrandulla Show
28th June
Corrandulla. Horse & pony Jumping and showing, cattle, dogs, domestic arts &
crafts and baking competitions. Country market and farm machinery displays.
National Play Day and Recreation Week
29th June to 5th July
National Recreation Week encourages all to try out new recreational
activities in their community. This years events will take place in Tuam and
other communities in the County. This years ‘play festival’ will take place in
Renville Park, Maree, Oranmore on July 5th.
more info: www.galway.ie www.gaillimh.ie
Roundstone Irish Night
1st July - 26th September
Every Wednesday night from 1st July @ 8.30pm, Upper Community Hall.
Christina Lowry presents this wonderful evening where musicians, singers
and Irish Sean Nós dancers demonstrate traditional Irish culture with a strong
Connemara influence. If you are staying or just passing through the village,
this is definitely not an evening to be missed.
ClareGalway Garden festival
4th - 5th July
Claregalway Castle & Grounds, 11am - 6pm. Showcasing the best of rare
Irish plants and horticultural expertise combined with a full programme of
educational lectures, children’s events, music concerts & artisan food. It
will be preceeded by National Conference on soil Friday July 3rd with Klaus
Laitenberger and a panel of expert speakers.
more info: www.galwaygardenfestival.com
Tubber Show
10th - 12th July
Ardrahan Agricultural Show
11th July
The Show prides itself on being one of the best events of its kind, celebrating
and showcasing all aspects of food, farming and rural life. Come and enjoy a
fantastic day out for the whole family.
community
arts
Tubber, Co. Galway. Sheep Fair prizes per section, tug-of-war inter parish,
donkey derby, show jumping events, dog show, hurling tournament, family
fun events, Tulla Ceilii band.
15
Féile na mBád
11th - 12th July
A weekend of sport, fun and craic in the heart of the Gaeltacht in Cill
Chiaráín. Traditional currach boat races along with displays of Galway
Hookers, traditional music and family fun.
Roundstone Connemara Pony,
Dog & Sheep Show
12th July
The main event, the Connemara Pony Show, consists of 20 in-hand classes
showcasing all ages and varieties of Connemara Pony. A Dog Show and
Sheep Show are also included in the day’s events. A great day out is assured
for competitors and spectators alike.
more info: www.roundstoneevents.com
(National & International) Lamb Shearing
& Foodie Festival
17th - 19th July
Celebrating lamb shearing in Corofin village – not the traditional sheep
shearing but lamb shearing! Family fun events.
Joyce Country Challenge Walks
community
arts
18th July
16
The Joyce Country Challenge Walks provides you with a chance to experience
Connemara by walking a circuit of Lough Nafooey, an area of exceptional
natural beauty. On the walks you will take in the plateau of Maumtrasna and
the Devils Mother and see outstanding views of the Maam Turks, Mweelrea,
Killary harbour, the Sheefrys and the Western Lakes. There are 4 separate
routes planned for the day, each with varying degrees of difficulty.
more info: www.lakedistricthwc.com/joycedetails.aspx
Ballyconneely Show
18th - 19th July
Taking place in Ballyconneely, Co Galway, a beautiful part of Connemara
renowned for its breeding of the celebrated Connemara Pony, its many
attractions make it a great day out for all the family. The event attracts many
breeders and ponies along with a dog show, a craft show and even a bonny
baby competition. Whether you’re buying, selling or are just there for the
enjoyment of it all the show has something for everyone.
Cleggan/Claddaghduff Festival of the Sea
25th July - 8th August
A two week festival featuring informative talks, nature walks, children’s
sports, fishing competitions, a local seafood buffet aswell as art exhibitions.
Mountbellew Vintage Club Show
26th July
Mountbellew Mart Grounds, vintage machinery events with Family fun day –
all welcome.
Claddaghduff Connamara Pony Show
26th July
The Claddaghduff Pony Show promises you a fun-filled day packed with
activities. The Showfield in Claddaghduff village, is in an idyllic location,
overlooking the spectacular Omey Strand and Island. Among the highlights
of the show are classes for in-hand and ridden Connemara Ponies, nonpedigree sheep, cattle and dogs. Lots of family fun events.
A host of events, live music and generally a fun weekend for all the family.
community
arts
Moylough Festival “Moyfest”
31st July,1st - 2nd August
17
Omey Races
2nd August
The Omey Races take place annually on the strand at Omey Strand,
Claddaghduff in Connemara. With up to nine races on the card, there’s
opportunities for young, upcoming jockeys to hone their skills, while providing
a great day out for spectators. The first race will be off at 1pm sharp.
more info: www.omeyraces.com
Irish Draught Horse Show
2nd August
Ballinasloe Show Ground. Promoting Ireland’s only indigenous breed of Horse.
Cashel Pony Show
2nd August
A firm favourite of horse enthusiasts young and old, the Cashel Show takes
place in Cashel Bay, County Galway and features a variety of classes, among
them yearling colt, two-year-old colt, yearling filly, two-year-old filly, threeyear-old filly, four-year-old mare (with/without foal), and many more.
Kinvara RNLI Fun Day
2nd August
Family fun day celebrating the sea. RNLI safety demonstrations, Galway
Hooker trips to the seal sanctuary, local music, arts & crafts.
Gort District agricultural Show
community
arts
8th August
18
Gort Community Centre & Community School Grounds
Competitive classes in various sections including horticulture, home produce,
handicrafts, photography, poultry, dogs, pets, horses & ponies. Promoting
local produce, enterprise and services.
Crinniú na mBád
14th - 16th August
Kinvara. A celebration of marine heritage including traditional Galway
Hookers and wooden boats.
Connemara Pony Festival
16th - 23rd August
The annual Connemara Pony Festival & Show in Clifden, Co Galway
attracts visitors from all over the world. Ponies compete in in-hand
classes, ridden classes, working hunter classes, and a puissance (or high
jump) competition. For non-pony enthusiasts, there is a dog show, a
domestic arts show and Irish Dancing.
more info: www.cpbs.ie
Cumann Iascaireacht Beirtrí Buí
22nd August
Bertraghboy Bay Sea Anglers Club are the hosts of the annual Sea Angling
Competition held in Glynsk, Connemara Co. Galway every summer.
Claregalway Agricultural Show
24th August
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.
more info: www.claregalwayagriculturalshow.ie
Loughrea Medieval festival
28th - 30th August
community
arts
Loughrea. Heritage walks, Medieval banquet, Hurling match, Puppet
shows, Medieval Food Trail, local food and craft market. family fun
entertainment. Celebrating Irish Walled Towns status, the festival
free family fun day will take place on Sunday, August 30th. Enjoy reenactments, weapons display, falconry display, medieval music, puppet
show, lectures, mass in the Old Abbey dating to 1300, traditional crafts,
food and craft market, children’s entertainment, and lots more.
more info: loughreamedievalfestival.com, facebook.com/loughreamedievalfestival,
or email [email protected]
19
Oughterard Agricultural & Horticultural Show
29th - 30th August
The Oughterard Show is one of the leading agricultural and horticultural
shows in the West of Ireland. It gives both locals and visitors to see the best
of Connemara with performance ponies, livestock, pets, dogs, farm and
garden produce and vintage displays as well as a large variety of art and craft
exhibits along with fun provided for children on both days.
more info: www.oughterardshow.com
Clarinbridge Market Day
5th September
Clarinbridge market including traditional crafts and agricultural practices.
Oyster harvesting, peat harvesting, as well as oats and barley.
Mountbellew Agricultural Show
5th September
Mountbellew Agricultural College. Agricultural Show including show
classes, childrens entertainment, family day out and displays of Irish
traditions in Agriculture.
Lá Fhéile Chiaráin
9th September
The 9th of September is St. Ciaráin Feast Day and we celebrate it in his
honour. A celebration mass with visits to St. Ciaráins well followed by a
blessing of the boats.
Galway Tattoo Show
community
arts
12th - 13th September
20
The show is not only a celebration of tattoo art, and will feature
entertainment, live music, a stunning art gallery, a free tattoo cinema,
photo booth, market stalls and traders on show to keep you entertained.
more info: www.galwaytattooshow.ie
Eyrecourt Agricultural Show
20th September
Eyrecourt. Agricultural Show including horses, cattle and sheep classes along
with competitive bakery, produce and canine sections.
ANNUAL VINTAGE THRESHING
30th September
Shragh Hall, Woodford, County Galway, 1pm. Vintage threshing and baling,
butter making, BBQ, children’s entertainment, strength and skills games,
sheaf throwing, guess the weight, music and dancing.
Taispeánteas Cois Fharraige teo
2nd October
Séonna de capall marcaíochta, capall cláraithe agus comórtos marcaíochta.
Madraí agus caora, taispeántaisi abhair eacnamaíocht baile, Ealain,
agus comórtaisí do páistí agus déagoirí. Two day show of cattle, sheep,
homecraft and dogs.
Bake Fest Galway
3rd - 4th October
Ireland’s leading baking & cake decorating show with proceeds going to
ACT for Meningitis.
more info: www.bakefestgalway.com
Glenamaddy Ploughing & Agricultural Show
3rd - 4th October
Livestock, ploughing, agricultural machinery show, vintage show including
thrashing, forge and horse ploughing. Lots of family entertainment
including traditional music, dancing, face painting, & art competition.
Trade stands with local produce.
3rd - 11th October
An extravaganza of all things equestrian, with entertainment, music and
great family fun. On the Sunday and Monday, the Fairgreen is the place
to be, with every breed of horse and pony on display from the beautiful
Connemara Pony to trotting ponies and wonderful Irish draughts. With
an assortment of fun events, street stalls, fireworks, tug-o-war, street &
vintage parade, arts & crafts, music and children’s events.
more info: www.ballinasloe.com
community
arts
Ballinasloe International October
Fair & Festival
21
Social Inclusion Week
10th - 18th October
The purpose of Social Inclusion Week is to highlight and create more
awareness of people who may be excluded from taking a full and active
role in society and their community. It’s also an opportunity to celebrate
and promote the work that community groups are involved in. Events will
be held across County Galway during the week.
Connemara 4 Seasons Autumn
Walking Festival
16th - 18th October
Explore Connemara in Autumn with guides Michael Gibbons & Gerry
McCluskey who provide an insight into the unique cultural/archeological /
historic heritage of the area. The walks are suitable for beginners through to
advanced… all you need is a good pair of walking boots!
more info: www.connemara4seasonswalkingfestival.com
Conamara Sea Week
16th - 26th October
The village of Letterfrack which is the focal point of the festival is situated at the
butt of the magical Diamond Mountain and is the gateway to Connemara National
Park. It is also adjacent to Kylemore Abbey surrounded by mountains and at the
edge of the ocean. This is a fun packed festival celebrating our wonderful marine
heritage, with tons of great music and buckets of fun for all the family.
more info: www.ceecc.org
Éigse Mhichael Mháire Ghabha
community
arts
23rd - 25th October
22
A weekend of music, dance, songs and merriment in honour of Éigse
Mhichael Mháire Ghabha.
Galway Aboo Halloween Festival
24th, 25th & 31st October
Something spooktacular is taking place in Galway’s Latin Quarter this
Halloween Weekend. The city’s medieval streets will host the country’s
biggest Halloween Festival with many fun and free events planned for the
weekend with high-spirits guaranteed.
more info: www.thelatinquarter.ie
Galway Science & Technology Festival
9th - 22nd November
The Galway Science & Technology Festival is a two week festival which
provides shows and workshops to primary and secondary schools in
Galway City and County. The festival culminates on the last day with an
exhibition of Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths to bridge the gap
between students and industry by showcasing local schools, companies,
third level institutes and government bodies. A great day out at NUI Galway.
more info: www.galwayscience.ie
Galway Christmas Market
20th November - 22nd December
The Galway Christmas Market will take up residence in Eyre Square in the
centre of the city from the again this Christmas season. The market promises
to be a highlight of the Christmas Season and will make for a wonderful
attraction for visitors young and old. Sample Christmas treats from all from
around Europe including a Santa’s Grotto, a German bier keller, numberous
gift and snack stalls and an entertainment area.
more info: www.galwaychristmasmarket.ie
Galway City On Ice
November to January
Galway City On Ice brings Christmas Ice Skating on a real ice skating rink to
Galway City for Christmas 2015. Visitors can expect to see Galway’s Harbour
area transformed into one of Ireland’s premier Christmas attractions with
one massive 500m2 ice rink.
more info: www.galwaycityonice.ie
in The Square Athenry. Athenry Medieval Town Band will lead the parade
to the Christmas Tree in the Square prior to the switching on of the lights.
Santa Clause will stop by to talk to the children. See the Winter Wonderland
Window created by the Christmas Lights group which has proved a major
attraction to young and old.
Athenry Gift & Craft Fair
5th December
Community Hall, Athenry, Co. Galway. Time: 11am - 5pm. Local crafters
and community groups get together to sell their goods in a fun filled
environment. Free entry. Visit Santa Clause and browse around the
stalls to get exciting handmade gifts. Athenry Christmas lights group are
hosting this fundraiser to enable us to continue to make Athenry a focal
point for the festive season.
community
arts
Lighting up Athenry town for Christmas
4th December at 4.30pm
23
Connemara Mussel Festival
1st - 3rd May
Tullycross, Renvyle, Co. Galway
A celebration of the people, food, culture and heritage of north-west
Connemara. The festival, on the Wild Atlantic Way, is a feast for the
senses for locals and visitors: TASTE beautifully cooked local produce;
SEE unparellelled views of the magnificent Connemara landscape: HEAR
sounds of music, dancing, talks and theatre; FEEL the atmosphere
and most of all ENJOY the experience. Talks on beekeeping, organic
gardening, foraging trips, local archaeology and more; drama from
the Curlew Theatre Company and dancing from the award winning
Curley School of Irish Dancing. For children there’s a special schedule
of cooking, theatre story-telling and games. And a Country Market
of artisan food and craft producers, a wine tasting event and an art
exhibition by local artists.
more info: www.connemaramusselfestival.com
Bia Lover - Festival of Food Athenry
19th - 21st June
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.
more info: www.bialover.ie
food
25
Clarenbridge Oyster Festival
11th - 13th September
Great food, great Guinness, great music and entertainment all in a splendid
marquee on the banks of the Claren River which flows through the village of
Clarenbridge on the edge of Galway Bay.
more info: www.clarenbridge.com
Galway International Oyster Festival
24th - 27th September
A feast of live entertainment, gourmet food, fine wine and of course Oysters
and Guinness are enjoyed by some 10,000 people with guests and luminaries
from all over the world.
more info: www.galwayoysterfest.com
Bia BóFinne – A taste of inishbofin
2nd - 4th October
Inishbofin Island plays host to a weekend festival celebrating local food
and drink, with cooking demonstrations, shore foraging, butchery skills,
fish smoking, vegetarian cooking, a food market and island inspired tasting
menus.
Galway Restaurant Week
2nd - 8th November
food
An initiative by the people who brought us Galway Food Festival will see the
city’s restaurant owners come together to showcase the variety, quality,
and standard of Galway’s restaurant scene. Galway Restaurant Week offers
diners exclusive promotions, complimentary treats, and hefty discounts.
more info: www.galwayrestaurantweek.com
26
Tiernascragh Heritage Project
8th – 16th August
Tiernascragh, Portumna. You are invited to join us in Tiernascragh for an 8
Day Festival of Welcomes, History, Heritage and Discovery.
Galway Heritage Week
22nd - 30th August
Galway’s rich heritage is set to be celebrated in a range of events
across the city and county as part of National Heritage Week. Over 100
different events are planned from Ballinasloe to Inishbofin and will take
in everything from genealogy workshops to talks on the history of the
Connemara pony.
more info: www.heritageweek.ie
Athenry Walled Towns Day
23rd August
Free family fun day in Athenry Heritage Centre
Connemara Descendants Gathering
11th - 16th September
Clifden, Connemara, Co. Galway. The history and heritage filled town of
Clifden will host the Connemara Descendants Gathering. The gathering
will be officially opened by the Minister for Diaspora Affairs, Jimmy
Deenihan T.D. at a gala dinner followed by Traditional Irish music and
dance. All Connemara descendants are invited to come to Clifden to
celebrate their heritage in what will be a gathering full of interesting
talks, walks, exhibitions, genealogy research and cultural celebrations.
Féile na gClogh, Inis Oírr
17th - 20th September
heritage
Stone Wall Workshop, Letter carving and stone sculpting.
28
Loughrea Memorial Group Conference:
A Changing Military History Landscape
17th October
The Loughrea Memorial Group was formed in 2008, with the intention of
remembering, and collecting the history of the men from Loughrea who
“died in all wars or on service with the United Nations and to those that
returned”. Annually at the memorial plaque at the County Council Offices
on Barrack Street we hold a remembrance ceremony where the local
population pay respect. Further details on conference at: Heritage Office,
Galway County Council 091 509 000 / 091 509 198.
Fleadh na gCuach Festival
1st - 4th May
Fleadh na gCuach (The Cuckoo Festival) takes place each year in the scenic fishing
village of Kinvara, Co. Galway. It is a very popular Traditional Irish Music festival
with over 50 music sessions in the villages’ pubs over the weekend. In addition to
the music, one can also find Art & Crafts, Poetry, Drama during the festival.
more info: www.kinvara.com
The Banjo Gathering
8th - 10th May
Clarinbridge. A weekend of music, exhibitions and workshops with special
guest Mick Moloney and featuring JIGJAM, Irish, Americano Bluegrass.
Galway Early Music Festival
14th - 17th May
The Galway Early Music Festival celebrates old world music and arts and
features concerts, workshops, street performances of music, dance and
historical re-enactment.
more info: www.galwayearlymusic.com
Galway County Fleadh
15th - 17th May
The Galway County Fleadh feature a wide variety of events including
competitions, sessions and dancing.
more info: www.comhaltas.ie
The Galway Sessions
music
14th - 21st June
30
The Galway Sessions Festival, celebrating Irish folk and traditional music
and the music Irish emigrants brought with them across the world, returns
from Sunday June 14th to Sunday 21st. As in previous years, the festival’s
Scottish connection will be retained with an array of performers travelling
from Galway’s cultural partner Stirling to take part. Events take place in the
Town Hall Theastre and in pubs throughout the city with sessions planned
in The Crane Bar, The King’s Head, Tigh Choili’s, Taaffe’s Bar, The Quays, Tigh
Neachtains, and Monroe’s Tavern.
more info: www.galwaysessions.com
Traidphicnic
3rd - 5th July
Traidphicnic is a weekend event with concerts by traditional music
artists along with art and cultural workshops with the backdrop of the
beautiful Connemara landscape. Indulge in delicious local cuisine or just
sit back and soak up the wonderful music. Traidphicnic has something
for everyone and is very much a family event. Based near to Ceardlann,
Spiddal Craft and Design Studios, you can explore the shops, sneek a peek
at the crafters at work, and nip to the beach or into the seaside village of
An Spidéál and make your own discoveries.
the Currafest Music Festival
12th July
Loughrea. The festival will be held on the grounds of Curra West Golf
Club and boasts an exciting line up. In addition the festival will include a
comedy tent, food festival and Currakids playzone, along with the new
option of camping overnight on the Saturday. The festival promises to
remain a great day out for people of all ages, and families, and raises
funds for worthwhile charities.
more info: www.currafest.ie
Loughrea Comhaltas Summer School
13th - 18th July
Broderick Carty Traditional Music Summer School & Traditional Music Festival
is held in St. Raphael’s College, Loughrea and the Music Festival along with
music sessions and workshops takes place around different venues in
Loughrea town nightly.
Headfest
August
HEADFEST is a three-day festival with a great mix of arts and music that
takes place in Headford over the August bank holiday weekend.
music
31
Sugarbeat
22nd - 23rd August
Tuam Stadium, Tuam. The west of Ireland premier outdoor music festival.
Tuam is long known to have a vibrant music scene. While the Saw Doctors
are perhaps the towns most famous band, many more bands have gained
popularity both nationally and internationally. The Sugarbeat festival aims to
showcase the best of both national and local music talent.
The Larry Ryenolds Irish Music Weekend
11th - 13th September
Various venues in Ballinasloe Town Centre
Traditional Irish music festival commemorating the life of Larry Reynolds,
promoting music of East Galway, showcasing traditional muswic from the
region, enhancing the use of spoken Irish Language in the area.
Tuam Trad Festival
18th – 20th September
Tuam. Traditional music, song and dance and Irish Language.
GUINNESS® AMPLIFY in Galway
24th - 27th September
GUINNESS® AMPLIFY will present 42 live acts in 21 venues over 4 nights in
Galway in a series of intimate gigs in venues and pubs across the city from
Thursday 24 to Sunday 27 September 2015. Admission to all gigs is free; on a
first-come, first-served basis.
more info: www.guinnessamplify.com
Galway Jazz Festival
October
music
Best Little Jazz Fest in the West. 11th anniversary edition of the Galway Jazz
Festival: October 2015.
more info: www.galwayjazzfest.com
32
Portumna Coarse Angling Competition
2nd - 9th May
Angling competition
Connemara Adventure Challenge
9th May
The race has three disciplines: Trail / Mountain Running, Kayaking and
Cycling. The course will be exceptional, the scenery spectacular, so now all
that’s needed is good weather. The Connemara Adventure Challenge is 31km
in total and it is open to racers of all levels.
more info: www.gaelforceevents.com/connemara
Clifden Sky Road 10K Challenge
10th May
The Sky Road 10K Challenge takes place in Clifden and is run for a charity of
your choice. Walkers are welcome.
more info: www.clifden.ie
Roundstone Bay 8K
16th May
sports
The course itself consists of a figure of eight loop, beginning and ending in
Roundstone village, and taking in some spectacular coastal views along the
way. Both runners and walkers are welcome and the organisers have endured
to put on an event that will cater to all types of participant. Proceeds from the
race will go towards the local RNLI Lifeboat service.
more info: www.roundstonebay8k.com
34
Inishbofin Half-Marathon
16th May
The route, which will utilise the main road around the island, offers stunning
views from every side of the island and will be challenging! Uniquely, due to
the narrow roads, this 13.1 mile run or walk is offered as a time-trial with
runners/ walkers starting in pairs at 15 second intervals. This adds to the
excitement of the event, as the winner is announced based on time analysis,
rather than first home!
more info: www.croi.ie/events/inishbofin-half-marathon-1
Tour de Conamara
23rd May
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.
more info: www.tourdeconamara.com
Lough Cutra Castle Triathlon Festival
24th May
The Lough Cutra Castle Triathlon takes place amidst the stunning
surroundings of one of Ireland’s hidden castle treasures overlooking Europe’s
largest privately-owned lake, just outside Gort, Co Galway. The race has a
distance for all levels, whether first timers or elites.
more info: www.castletriathlonseries.co.uk
sports
35
Carlsberg Salthill National Fives
30th - 31st May
The ‘Carlsberg Salthill National Fives’ annual tournament, now in its 39th
year has become a highly anticipated date in Galway’s soccer calendar and
sees a great mix of Galway natives, visitors and friends gather to enjoy
this great footballing festival.
more info:www.salthilldevon.ie
Galway Bike Week
13th - 21st June
sports
Galway County Council and Galway City Council are funding local cycling
events and activities as part of National Bike Week. Galway Bike Festival is all
about celebrating and promoting cycling for transport, getting people back on
their bikes and raising awareness around the health and lifestyle benefits of
everyday cycling.
•E
vents – Family Fun cycles around the county in five venues – Loughrea,
Oughterard, Ballinasloe, Tully Cross, Connemara. –
•C
ornamona 50 Mile Sponsored Cycle. 13th June 2015 10.30am Starting in
Cornamona.
•T
uam Cancer Care Cycle – Sunday 14th June 2015 – Tuam & Environs.
•S
even Springs, Loughrea Town Criterium – Cycle through streets of town.
13th June @ 6pm.
•G
aelscoil Riabhach, Loughrea – 14th June 2015 – three events, 65K, 16k
and a bike safety workshop all in/around Loughrea. Starting at 10am.
•C
ycle for Treasure – Ballinderreen, Sunday 21st June in grounds/
environment of Ballinderreen Community Centre.
•C
lifden Charity Cycle – The Showgrounds, Clifden, Sunday 21st June,
2.30pm.
•B
MX Showdown
•G
reen Schools Event – An Tasice Bike Maintenance in schools in City &
County.
•S
chool trip to the Greenway in Mayo.
36
Portumna Forest Marathon
13th June
Forest Marathon is a running festival in the beautiful Coillte forest of
Portumna in Co. Galway. The event includes a 10k, a full marathon, a half
marathon and two ultra-running events - a 50k and 100k run.
more info: www.forestmarathon.com
Galway Rowing Regatta
14th June
This year’s Galway Regatta will take place at the NUIG grounds at Dangan.
Galway’s oldest rowing regatta, entries from all four provinces with many
of the top rowing clubs in Ireland are expected to compete.
more info: www.iaru.ie
Lough Corrib Cycle
14th June
Fun cycling sportive in support of Croí. Cyclists will have a choice of a 27.5
mile or a 75 mile route through the picturesque setting of Connemara.
We will provide roadside assistance, support vehicles & plenty of
refreshment stops along the way!
more info: www.croi.ie/loughcorribcycle
Dip in the Nip
21st June
Dip in the Nip is a fund raising initiative to support cancer charities in
Ireland. Hundreds of people gather on a beach, shed their clothes and
leggit into the North Atlantic Ocean. It’s the world’s first skinny dip for
charity and a little bit of fun for a great cause!
more info: www.dipinthenip.eu
sports
37
Galway Simon 10km or 10 mile
21st June
Galway Simon 10km or 10mile takes place on June 21st at 10am. This is the
annual running for charity event for Galway Simon with Early Bird registration
Fee until April 30th. The AAI Certified 10km or 10mile course will follow a
glorious route along Galway Bay and is suitable for runners and walkers of
all abilities. Registration for the event is now open on www.GalwaySimon.ie
and on www.RunIreland.com so why not sign up and set yourself a target of
completing a 10km or 10mile or beating your personal best. Timing chips and
T-Shirts provided for all participants.
more info: www.galwaysimon.ie / www.runireland.com
Galway Blue Challenge
27th - 28th June
The Galway Blue Challenge involves a charity cycle from Maam Cross to
Croagh Patrick, a climb of Croagh Patrick followed by an overnight stay in
Westport, then a cycle back to Galway the following day. All in aid of the
Galway Autism Partnership.
more info: www.galwaybluechallenge.org
Omey Dash Triathlon
4th July
Starts at Acton’s Eco Campsite Claddaghduff Clifden Connemara. All proceeds
are in aid of the local Claddaghduff community Hall. This has extensive
community support in obtaining funds to repay for the refurbishment of the hall.
more info: www.omeydash.com
Galway Races - Summer Festival Meeting
sports
27th July - 2nd August
38
Galway Race course, Ballybrit, Galway. Ireland’s premier horse racing festival.
Adrenalin-pumping action, heart-stopping finishes and breath-taking
fashion, you are at the Galway Races. Situated on the outskirts of Galway
city, in the West of Ireland, the Galway Race Festivals are world renowned.
more info: www.galwayraces.com
Streets of Galway 8k Road Race
8th August
Galway’s most popular athletic event. Starting from South Park in the
Claddagh, the race takes in the city centre streets, following a course out to
Salthill before finishing with a two kilometre final stretch along with prom.
more info: www.runireland.com/events/streets-galway
The Connemara 100
8th - 9th August
The Connemara is a 100 mile endurance run with 30 hour limit. The course
is simply fabulous, taking participants from Clifden through Letterfrack,
Leitirgeish, the Inagh alley, Maam Cross, Leenane, Inagh Valley again, then on
to Roundstone, Ballyconeely and back to Clofden to complete 100 miles.
more info: www.connemara100.com
Gaelforce West & Get Out There
Adventure Festival
15th August
Gaelforce West is the largest one day adventure race of its kind in the world.
It is a multi-sport adventure race involving cycling, running, hiking and
kayaking. The course of approximately 67km stretches from the stunning
Glassilaun beach to Westport. En route there are some significant obstacles
to cross, including Killary Harbour and the famous holy mountain of Croagh
Patrick. The event is designed for solo competitors, but you can run it with a
buddy or training partner.
more info: www.gaelforceevents.com
Étape Connemara
16th August
The Étape Connemara is a 150km cycling sportive. This is a chip-timed event
on open roads in Connemara. The event is organised by Croí, the heart &
stroke charity, with all proceeds going back to the charity.
more info: www.croi.ie/event/etape-connemara
sports
39
Galway Races Autumn Meeting
7th - 9th September
Adrenalin-pumping action, heart-stopping finishes and breath-taking
fashion; you are at the Galway Races.
more info: www.galwayraces.com Connemara Rough Diamond Adventure
26th September
The Connemara Rough Diamond Adventure race involves a combination of
running, cycling and an assault course. There are 3 levels to choose from:
the 17km intro course, the 32km sport course, and the expert-level 60km
option. Each race includes the Fear Gorta assault course through Kylemore
Woods, the details of which are a heavily guarded secret. Sumo wrestlers are
rumoured, muck is gauranteed.
more info: www.connemararoughdiamond.com
Galway Bay Half Marathon & 10K
3rd October
The Galway Bay Half Marathon & 10K race includes a half marathon (13.1
miles) and also a 10k run/walk in aid of Cancer Care West along a fast, flat,
fun and scenic route starting and finishing along Galway’s famous coast line
on the edge of the city and the Bay.
more info: www.galwaybayhalfmarathon.com
North East Galway 10km race
11th October 12 pm
sports
Moylough Co Galway. Race is AAI approved. You can register on line ay
www.runireland.com any further queries contact Linda on 0872801935.
more info: www.facebook.com/northeastgalwayiokmoylough.
(its galway io not 10)
40
Galway Races - October Racing Festival
25th - 26th October
If you fancy some great racing and great fun, then this is the place to be.
There will be great racing, free car parking, free entry for children under
14, free racecard draw each day, big screen, Tote, On course bookmakers,
bar and restaurant facilities. Admission Price: €15 per adult. Music will be
by the Guinness Jazz Band.
more info: www.galwayraces.com
Gaelforce Turf Warrior Challenge
31st October
The Turf Warrior Challenge offers the chance to round off the season in
a flurry of mud and sweat on the banks of Killary Harbour in Co. Galway.
The deceptively short 10km course is packed full of climbing, swinging,
leaps into the Atlantic and all kinds of other mayhem and madness. Said
to be the toughest course in Ireland, it promises to test competitors’
stamina, nerve and camaraderie. The fun does not end with the race.
Once they have washed the mud off, all warriors are invited to the
themed party in Killary Adventure Centre.
more info: www.gaelforceevents.com
Galway Masters International Basketball
Tournament
November
Masters basketball denotes players must be over forty and thirty-five years
old respectively for men and women, and the objective of this event is to
promote competitive basketball for men and women and to offer players of
various nationalities the opportunity to compete and socialise together over
the two day event.
more info: www.galwaymasters.com
sports
41
Irish Fly Fair and International Angling Show
7th & 8th November
A host of the world’s greatest Fly-dressers, Casters and Angling Celebrities
will once again gather in the Galway Bay Hotel in Salthill, Co. Galway to
participate in the annual Irish Fly Fair and Angling Show.
more info: www.irishflyfair.com
Fields of Athenry 10km
26th December
sports
Over the last number of years this has has become of of the leading
road races in the country, and this year it aims to raise the bar higher.
The race returns to its now traditional route, finishing under the medival
arch in Athenry.
more info: www.athenryac.com/news/fields-athenry-10km
42
County Galway
Inishboffin
Cleggan
Renvyle
Coloured dots on map denote locations
of events with corresponding dots listed
throughout the guide.
Glassilaun
Leenane
Letterfrack
Claddaghduff
Finny
An Mám
Clifden
Sraith Salach
Ballyconneely
Roundstone
Carna
An Fhairche
An Chloc Bhreac
Ca
Corr na
Móna
Oughterard
An Caiseal
Ros Cathail
Rosmuc
Cill Chiaráin
Leitir Móir
Leitir Mealláin
Camas
Maigh Cuillin
Béalan Daingin
Casla
Ros a Mhíl
Bearna
G
An Spidéal
Na Forbacha
Baile
Indreabhán
Inis Mór
Inis Méain
Galway city
Ower
Inis Oírr
Williamstown Ballymoe
To Knock Airport
Milltown
Dunmore
Glenamaddy
Kilconly
Kilkerrin
Lavally
aherlistrane
Belclare
Tuam
Creggs
Ballygar
Newbridge
Moylough
Mountbellew
Castleblakney
Menlough
Turloughmore
Caltra
Corrandulla
Colmanstown
Monivea
Ballymacward Ahascragh
Cluain Bú
Lackagh
Kilconnel
Ballinasloe
Claregalway
Headford
Corofin
Castlegan Mór
New Inn Aughrim
Athenry
Oranmore
Kiltullagh
Galway City
Carabane
a
Craughwell
Clarinbridge
Kilcolgan
Loughrea
Ballindereen
Kilchreest
Cappataggle
Laurencetown
Eyrecourt
Killimor
Tynagh
Kylebrack
Kinvarra Ardrahan
Peterswell
Gort
To Dublin Airport
Portumna
Abbey
Woodford
Tubber
Gorteeny
To Shannon Airport
Please note: all information contained in this guide was
correct at time of printing but is subject to change.
Community, Enterprise &
Economic Development Unit,
Galway County Council,
Prospect Hill, Galway.
For updated information about events
in Galway, view our online calendar at
www.galway.ie