Festive Christmas market with families shopping near a lit Ferris wheel and Christmas tree.

Picturesque waterfront view of Galway city homes at sunset reflecting on calm water.

Boats adorned with festive lights reflect on calm water near The Galmont Hotel at twilight.

Galway Festivals & Events

Renowned as the “Cultural Heart of Ireland”, Galway offers an exceptional year-round calendar of festivals and events. From internationally acclaimed arts celebrations to culinary, cultural, and sporting highlights, the city’s vibrant energy provides something to captivate every visitor throughout the seasons.

Blas na Samhna – Food & Drinks Festival

Date: 26 October – 30 November 2026
Overview: Experience the flavours of the season as Blas na Samhna returns this November, celebrating Galway’s vibrant food and drink scene. In partnership with Gaillimh Ah-Boo!. This year’s festival draws inspiration from Samhain, bringing together seasonal menus, unique dining experiences and the very best of Galway hospitality.

A cheerful family gathering in a cosy, warmly-lit restaurant with pumpkin decorations.

Autumn leaves with hotel dome in misty background.

Festive market scene with joyful families enjoying food stalls at night.

Galway Christmas Market

Date: 7 November – 31 December, 2026
Overview: During the festive season, Eyre Square is transformed into a charming Christmas village. Guests can enjoy artisan stalls, seasonal treats, and a warm, magical atmosphere in the heart of the city.

Other Events & Festivals

Family enjoying sunset by striking sculpture near The Galmont Hotel

Music for Galway Midwinter Festival

Date: 22 – 24 January 2027
Overview: Presented by Music for Galway, this special Midwinter Festival offers a rare opportunity to experience the complete Beethoven string quartets across five concerts. Performed by the acclaimed ConTempo Quartet and Vogler Quartet, the festival brings together some of the greatest works in classical music for an unforgettable weekend of artistry, passion and musical excellence in the heart of Galway.

Traditional wooden boat named "Claddagh" moored by a harbour with family-friendly waterfront hotels and a rainbow overhead, warm evening light (text: Claddagh)

Tonnta – Galway’s Irish language festival

Date: 28 – 31 January, 2027
Overview: Tonnta celebrates Galway’s rich bilingual heritage, bringing the Irish language to life through a vibrant programme of cultural experiences. From live music and arts performances to workshops, talks, food events and family-friendly activities, the festival welcomes everyone to connect with the language, whether fluent, learning, or simply curious.. A welcoming celebration of Galway’s culture, creativity, and bilingual spirit.

Young couple strolling by a scenic riverside near The Galmont Hotel & Spa.

Cúirt International Festival of Literature

Date: April 2027
Overview: This distinguished literary festival celebrates the very best in Irish and international writing. Through readings, interviews, and thought-provoking discussions, Cúirt offers a rich cultural experience for book lovers and curious minds alike.

A group enjoying conversation outside M. Cambridges deli in a bustling street setting.

Blas na Bealtaine, A Taste of Galway,

Date: May, 2027
Overview: Showcasing the very best of Galway’s renowned food scene, this festival offers a delicious programme of tastings, markets, and culinary events, highlighting local producers and talented chefs.

Medieval-clad performers play music outside a stone building entrance.

Galway Early Music Festival

Date: May 2027
Overview: A celebration of early and baroque music, this elegant festival presents beautifully curated performances by acclaimed musicians in some of Galway’s most atmospheric venues, perfect for those seeking a refined cultural experience.

Group enjoying traditional music session at cosy Irish pub with drinks on the table.

Fleadh / Folk Music Festival

Date: 2 – 6 June, 2027
Overview: Traditional Irish music is at the heart of Galway’s cultural identity, and throughout the summer months the city and surrounding region host a variety of folk and traditional music festivals. These events celebrate Ireland’s rich musical heritage with lively street performances, sessions in local venues, and performances from some of the country’s most accomplished musicians. Guests can enjoy an authentic and uplifting cultural experience, whether attending organised concerts or discovering impromptu sessions across the city.

Guests enjoy a film screening at a theatre event, with a lively audience seated.

Galway Film Fleadh

Date: 6 – 11 July, 2027
Overview: A highlight of Ireland’s cultural calendar, the Galway Film Fleadh is a prestigious international festival with a strong focus on Irish storytelling. Guests can enjoy a curated programme of premieres, independent films, and engaging discussions with filmmakers and industry experts.

Galway International Arts Festival

Date: 12 – 25 July, 2027
Overview: Each July, Galway comes alive with the internationally celebrated Galway International Arts Festival. Over two inspiring weeks, the city is transformed into a creative showcase of theatre, visual arts, street spectacle, and world-class live music, including headline performances at the iconic Heineken Big Top.

Two women enjoying a sunny day on The Galmont Hotel terrace overlooking the lake.

Galway Races Summer Festival

Date: 26 July – 1 August, 2027
Overview: Synonymous with style and celebration, the Galway Races Summer Festival at Ballybrit Racecourse is one of Ireland’s most iconic events. Combining exhilarating horse racing with fashion, entertainment, and a lively social scene, it promises a truly memorable Galway experience.

Two men on a rocky Irish shoreline holding baskets of freshly harvested shellfish, calm sea behind them (no visible text)

Galway Oyster Festival

Date: September, 2027
Overview: Celebrating Galway’s rich maritime heritage since 1954, the Galway International Oyster & Seafood Festival is the world’s longest-running oyster festival. Over a lively weekend, the city comes alive with oyster tastings, seafood experiences, live music, street entertainment, and the renowned World Oyster Opening Championship. A true Galway tradition and one of Ireland’s most iconic food festivals.

Festive performers in costumes carrying illuminated decorations at night near The Galmont Hotel.

Halloween in Galway

Date: October 2027
Overview: xperience Halloween where it all began. Gaillimh Ah-Boo! transforms Galway into a city-wide celebration inspired by the ancient traditions of Samhain, blending ancient folklore with contemporary creativity.

Family enjoying an autumn street parade at night, costumed performer with leafy skull headdress

Macnas Parade

Date: 25 October, 2026
Overview: A highlight of Galway’s Halloween season, the world-renowned Macnas Parade returns with a spectacular new production, Fiáin, celebrating the wild spirit, folklore and imagination of the West of Ireland. Expect giant creations, breathtaking performances and a magical atmosphere as the streets of Galway come alive in one of Ireland’s most iconic cultural events

Illuminated hotel facade at dusk with warm, inviting lights and cobblestone foreground.

Galway Comedy Festival

Date: October 2027
Overview: Bringing laughter to the city each autumn, the Galway Comedy Festival welcomes some of the world’s leading comedians alongside Ireland’s brightest talent. Performances take place across a variety of intimate and lively venues, creating a unique and engaging experience.

Special Offers

We’ve put together a fantastic selection of exclusive offers and family discounts to help you enjoy a memorable escape at The Galmont Hotel & Spa in the heart of Galway.

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