Galway is bursting with exciting events every month! To help you make the most of what’s happening, we’ve put together a must-read guide featuring the top 20 events you won’t want to miss this month. From festivals to live entertainment, there’s something for everyone—so dive in and start planning your next great experience in Galway!
Please note; Below is just a snippet of everything Galway has to offer event-wise in the month ahead. If you would like a full and inclusive look at everything Galway has going on, please check out our website at; https://thisisgalway.ie/events/.
Festival: Galway Film Fleadh
When: July 8th-13th
Where: Venues around Galway City
More information here
Cinephiles, rejoice! Ireland’s leading film festival, the Galway Film Fleadh returns from July 8th to 13th with a curated programme featuring 31 World Premieres, 11 International/European Premieres and 46 Irish Premieres from 44 countries. This the 37th Fleadh will bring 96 feature films to the big screen in total. This year’s Shorts programme will feature over 100 short films while the Galway Film Fair, the industry arm of the festival, will host meetings for industry professionals with networking events, panel discussions and masterclasses. For more information on this year’s programme and to secure your tickets please see the above link. Early booking advised as tickets are going to fly out!
above: still from Sunphlowers, showing at Galway Film Fleadh 2025
Festival: Galway Races
When: July 28th to August 3rd
Where: Ballybrit Racecourse
More information here
Closing out the month in classic Galway style, the Galway Races gallop into town with seven days of high-stakes horse racing, flamboyant fashion, and exuberant events. Whether you’re trackside or soaking it in from the stylish champagne tent, this is Galway at its most glamorous so be sure to get involved. If the 28th seems too far away then you should absolutely check out the Pre-Galway Races Fashion Show returns to the spectacular Galway Bay Golf on Thursday, July 3rd. Held in association with Brown Thomas Galway and hosted by Mandy Maher, Head Judge of Ladies Day at the Galway Races and founder of Catwalk Models, this stunning annual event is a true celebration of glamour, elegance, and racing fashion. For more on this and to get your tickets please see here.
Festival: WTAF!? (Westend Theatre & Arts Festival)
When: July 21st-30th
Where: Galway’s Westend
More information here
For something delightfully offbeat, check out Galway’s newest fringe festival, WTAF!? (Westend Theatre & Arts Festival). This is a bold, alternative arts festival in Galway’s Westend which celebrates the arts in non-traditional spaces. It’s all about theatre, music, art, circus, comedy, craic and mayhem. Think drag, visual arts, and surreal live entertainment. Leave your expectations at the door. See the link above for the full festival programme.
Festival: Galway International Arts Festival
When: July 14th-27th
Where: Galway City
More information here
The highlight of the summer season, from big names to big spectacles, Galway International Arts Festival celebrates the arts in all its many forms. Sabotage, a roller-coaster ride of jaw-dropping circus from NoFit State, featuring outrageously talented performers, live music and stunning imagery; a newly commissioned installation from David Mach; a celebration of Druid’s 50th anniversary, with a double-bill directed by Garry Hynes; a new opera Mars from Jennifer Walshe and Irish National Opera; new dance/theatre Scorched Earth from Luke Murphy; an enormous insect wandering the streets of Galway City; a stellar line up at the Heineken® Big Top; artists Erin Lawlor, Richard Long and Arts Alive; musicians Bernard Butler, Richard Thompson, The Magic Numbers, Villagers, Mari Samuelsen and a 40th anniversary celebration of Galway’s Mary Coughlan; and First Thought Talks featuring Congresswoman Parmila Jayapal, Fintan O’Toole, Eman Mohammed and a host of speakers are amongst just some of the highlights of this year’s programme. Hit the link above to see it in full and to get your tickets.
above: The Summer Garden at GIAF '23
Festival: South Galway Bay Music Festival
When: July 11th-13th
Where: Ballinderreen GAA Club
More information here
Held at the Ballinderreen GAA grounds, the high-energy, family-friendly South Galway Bay Music Festival is a celebration of music and dance. Taking place on July 11-13th there will be local acts, food vendors, and good vibes aplenty, it's an unmissable few days in South Galway. So come along and listen to some of the country's best and most renowned bands and singers, featuring; Mundy, Paddy Casey, The Tumbling Paddies, Amazing Apples, Derek Ryan, and Olivia Douglas.
Youth Events: Art & Animation Summer Camps
When: July 7th to 11th, and July 28th to Aug 1st
Where: Salthill Knocknacarra GAA Club
More information here
Inspireland Art & Animation Camps are for young (kids and teens) creatives of all levels of ability. No matter what your style, how you dress, or who you are, these camps are for everyone. Both these Kids and Teen Art & Animation Summer Camps work with professional artists and animators. Each day of these five day summer camps brings a new activity including animation, comic art, mixed media, model making, illustration, character design. Camps run from 11am to 3pm, Monday to Friday on the weeks starting July 7th and 28th. Kids camps are for 8 to 12 year olds and teen camps from 13 to 18 year olds. Book a place for your child today and watch their creativity flourish!
Crafts: Bloom & Bubbles - Flower Arranging
When: July 3rd, at 5.30pm
Where: the g Hotel & Spa
More information here
Come along to a beautifully creative evening at the g Hotel & Spa as they present Bloom & Bubbles – a floral workshop with a sparkling twist. This special peony rose-themed flower arranging class is hosted by Sam, a talented local florist and owner of a beloved family-run florist in Galway. Known for her warm approach and eye for natural beauty, Sam will guide you through creating your own stunning arrangement featuring the season’s star bloom – the peony rose. Which you will then be able to take home with you.
Youth Events: Nature-Based Summer Camps
When: July 7th-11th, and July 14th-18th (select dates in August also)
Where: Brigit’s Garden
More information here
Brigit’s Garden has prepared a full summer of nature-based adventures with forest school inspired summer camps. These camps will feature a variety of natural crafts, activities, games and lots of fun. Options are; Fun with Nature: (5 – 7 year olds) This camp will include nature crafts (clay, making inks, nature flags), bush craft skills, a chill-out area with hammocks, tree swings and slacklines, the ever-so-popular mud kitchen, nature-based stories and songs and of course, plenty of child-led natural play. Wilderness Survival Skills: (8 – 12 Year olds) A great chance for children to enhance their survival and bushcraft skills! Lots of hands-on fun with tool use, animal tracking, fire building, flora and fauna recognition, foraging and cooking of wild plants, shelter and den building, knot tying and more. Both these camps are run by fully qualified leaders with years of experience bringing children into nature.
Dance Performance: Trad on the Prom
When: On select dates throughout July
Where: Leisureland
More information here
Traditional Irish music, song, dance and entertainment all come together on one stage in the heart of Galway, in a unique and unforgettably intimate theatre experience. This is Trad on the Prom, a cultural highlight of the Wild Atlantic Way and a MUST for every Irish holiday adventure! Since 2005, Trad on the Prom has been thrilling visitors from home and abroad with its extraordinary, electrifying energy and passionate, personal performances - delivering traditional, authentic Irish music, song and dance with a thrilling contemporary edge. So much more than a show, Trad on the Prom is a from-the-heart joyful celebration of life: Irish style. Trad on the Prom are hosting three shows per week right up until the end of September, but tickets are already selling fast so secure yours today and get ready for a phenomenal night.
Nightlife: The Dirty Circus
When: July 4th, at 8pm
Where: Róisín Dubh
More information here
Get ready for a night of decadence, drama, and high-octane performance as The Dirty Circus presents a sizzling live showcase featuring Vixen & The Dirty Secrets with live burlesque at Róisín Dubh. This one-night-only event will bring together the raw energy of live rock music with the sultry art of burlesque in Galway’s iconic venue. Known for their bold, unapologetic performances and immersive atmosphere, The Dirty Circus is once again breaking boundaries—this time with a fiery new act fronted by the magnetic Vixen & The Dirty Secrets. Expect a night soaked in glamour, glitter, and edge, where tassels twirl to the pulse of pounding drums and seductive vocals. This fusion of live music and burlesque promises an unforgettable celebration of art, empowerment, and sheer spectacle.
Nightlife: The Over 30s Club
When: July 12th, from 8pm
Where: Seven Bar
More information here
Want a night out but can’t do late nights? Come join all your fellow over 30s for a night of dancing, drinks, and good vibes at Seven in Galway city! DJ Jack Lyons is turning back time with an epic mix of 90s & 00s classics, Clubland anthems, and those nostalgic hits you forgot you loved! Expect neon glowsticks, party props, and an unforgettable trip down memory lane! Doors from 8pm ’til Midnight—perfectly timed for those who want a great night out and still enjoy the next day! It’s time to get the band back together, dust off those dancing shoes, and we’ll see you on the dance floor!
Literature: Lou Robbie Book Launch
When: July 21st, at 6pm
Where: Kennys Bookshop
More information here
Professional chef Lou Robbie, known to many as @littleloucooks from social media, will be at Kennys Bookshop on July 21st to celebrate the launch of her debut cookbook Make & Freeze. With over one million online followers, Lou shares recipes online that are designed to provide followers with easy, quick and tasty dishes to nourish the whole family. Her debut cookbook Make & Freeze features 100 of Lou’s most popular tried and tested recipes. All are welcome to this launch event which will feature a book signing by Lou, speeches and refreshments, including some finger food that Lou will bring along based on some recipes from the book!
Activity: Unleash your Wild Side at Wildlands
When: Activities available throughout July
Where: Moycullen
More information here
Surrounded by nature, Wildlands is more than just an activity centre, it’s an adventure haven for all ages! Little explorers (ages 3 to 8 years) will adore Baile Beag, a charming mini-village that’s been designed just for them, complete with a dedicated play area for the tiniest tots too. Meanwhile, thrill-seekers of older ages can dive into an exhilarating lineup of activities, from scaling fun walls to testing their aim in archery, or soaring through the skies on Zip ‘n’ Trek. Wildlands also offers a ton of water-based activities for the summer season. For those who love some friendly competition, friendly challenges await in the Ninja Course or Challenge Rooms, where teamwork meets adrenaline. And, if you’re not ready to say goodbye to the fun? You can opt to stay the night in one of their cosy wooden cabins, where nature meets comfort.
Music: Outside the Box
When: July 5th, from 5pm
Where: Róisín Dubh
More information here
Outside The Box is a small, artist-run & independent Festival which brings together some of Ireland’s most exciting up and coming bands. This year’s acts include Esmeralda Road, Sell Everything, Telebox, Theatre, Pebbledash and headliners Basht. Don’t miss it, this is going to be an incredible lineup of live performances.
Wellness: Give your body what it needs at She Kneads
When: Appointments available throughout July
Where: The Resting Tree Holistic Centre, Sandyford Business Centre, Bohermore
More information here
She Kneads is a women-only holistic and remedial massage therapy service based in Galway City, founded and operated by certified therapist Giada. With a deep passion for women’s wellness and natural healing, Giada offers tailored treatments that address not just physical pain but also emotional, mental, and spiritual imbalances. Whether you're dealing with chronic tension, stress, fatigue, or emotional burnout, She Kneads provides a safe, nurturing space to unwind, reconnect, and heal. Giada’s compassionate, intuitive approach ensures that every session supports your unique journey to wellness and vitality. Services offered include; Holistic Massage, Reflexology, Pregnancy Massage, Lymphatic Drainage, Energy Work and Shamanic Work. (Each session is customised to suit your needs, using techniques that promote long-term relief and emotional well-being.)
Family Getaway: Escape the city and visit Slieve Aughty Centre
When: Dates available throughout July
Where: Kylebrack, Loughrea
More information here
Providing a family escape that feels straight out of a storybook, Slieve Aughty Centre delivers in every way. This eco-conscious retreat blends nature, adventure, and a touch of enchantment, inviting all visitors to explore its Enchanted Fairy Forest, craft room, organic garden, and outdoor kitchen. Your children can befriend their resident pot-bellied pig, pet the ponies, or saddle up for a horseback ride. It's an unforgettable experience for both children and adults alike (suitable for ages 5+). When it’s time to refuel, indulge in farm-fresh flavours at the Slieve Aughty Woods Café, or for a truly special treat, join their Friday pizza nights, where you can make your own organic pizza and watch it cook to perfection in a wood-fired oven.
Documentary: The Butterfly Guards
When: July 18th, at 7pm
Where: Eye Cinema
More information here
Strange Wolves MMA Club have teamed up with Sarcoma Cancer Ireland this year to bring you “The Butterfly Guards” in order to raise funds and awareness for Sarcoma Cancer Ireland. This powerful new documentary will premiere at Eye Cinema Galway in a moving event that combines storytelling, resilience, and community spirit to raise critical awareness and funds for sarcoma cancer. This story proves when life gets tough “ you do what ye can”. This is the first full-length movie on Sarcoma, a rare cancer of the bone or soft tissue, which accounts for only 1% of all cancers diagnosed. In Ireland, approximately 200-250 people each year are diagnosed with sarcoma and roughly 30 of those will be children. From jiu-jitsu mats to heartfelt acts of kindness, the documentary captures moments of pain, power, and profound hope. All proceeds from the premiere go to Sarcoma Cancer Ireland.
Day Trip: Inis Mór with Aran Island Ferries
When: Available daily throughout July
Where: Ferry departs from The Galway Docks
More information here
Sometimes you just need to get away from it all for a bit and with the help of Aran Island Ferries you can! Leave your desk behind and get outdoors for the experience of a lifetime. With the summer season in full swing head off on an Aran Island Ferries day trip to Inis Mór where you can visit all of the island’s must-see attractions (such as the prehistoric fort of Dún Aonghasa and the famous Wormhole (or Poll na bPéist), a stunning natural rock pool), check out the local cafés, bars and restaurants, and enjoy a slower pace of life for a bit. Experience all of this and more before returning home via the Cliffs of Moher and enjoying views of this iconic landmark from a new angle. If you would like to see our full Inis Mór day trip itinerary tap more.
above: photo courtesy Ireland's Content Pool
Dining: Wine & Dinner Night
When: July 19th, at 7pm
Where: Clifden Station House Hotel
More information here
After a sold-out first event, Clifden Station House Hotel are pleased to announce a second Wine & Dinner Night on Saturday the 19th of July in their Carriage Restaurant. Begin your evening at 7pm with a glass of champagne in the Library Lounge, then explore a curated wine selection with expert guidance from James Miley of Vineyard Wines. A three-course gourmet dinner follows, prepared by Head Chef Pascal Marinot and served with your chosen bottle of wine. End the night with a relaxing glass of port or dessert wine as Barry provides live music on the piano. A proven favourite returns; limited tables so call 095-21699 and book now to avoid missing out. This is the perfect night for wine lovers and food enthusiasts alike!
Comedy: Katie Boyle: Roe v. Wade Versus Katie
When: July 11th, at 7pm
Where: Róisín Dubh
More information here
Following her sold-out tour of Ireland in summer 2024, US-based Irish comic Katie Boyle is returning home this summer with the new stand up show she is working on, ‘Roe v. Wade Versus Katie’. It’s about abortion rights, life in America, Saint Brigid, doing long distance with a childhood crush and Irish history. Join Katie for a uniquely personal dark comedy show at the Róisín Dubh this July 11th.
Feature photo by Chaosheng Zhang
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