Book a Party in Galway

When it comes to throwing a celebration worth remembering, location matters just as much as the guest list. Luckily, Galway is full of party-ready venues that are perfect for marking life’s special moments, from chic milestone birthdays and unforgettable hen and stag parties to charming family events and everything in between.

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Whether you’re after an intimate gathering or a full-blown bash, Galway offers no shortage of stylish spots to celebrate your special occasion. So if you’re searching for the best places to host a party in Galway, consider this your ultimate guide.

above: McDonagh's Thatch Bar & Beer Garden

Venue: McDonagh’s Thatch Bar & Beer Garden

What is it? - A traditional Irish bar with a large beer garden.
Best for: BBQs, corporate gatherings, birthday parties.
Accommodates: Best for medium to large groups.
Combining a large open-air beer garden with a gorgeous traditional thatched Irish bar, McDonagh’s Thatch Bar & Beer Garden offers a rare blend of rustic charm and vibrant energy. With an iconic thatched roof, expansive open-air beer garden, and an outdoor cocktail bar, it’s no surprise this spot is becoming a go-to for Galway party planners. Located just a short drive from Galway city, McDonagh’s in Oranmore is the ideal party venue for everything from milestone birthdays to corporate summer BBQs.
Address: Main Street, Oranmore
Make your party booking here | More information here

Activity: Pedal Power Galway 

What is it? - Novel multi-person bikes.
Best for: Hen/stag parties, corporate gatherings, birthday parties.
Accommodates: Best for small groups. Groups up to 36 people.
A fun, alternative way for your group to party your way through Galway city is with Pedal Power Galway. Suitable for groups up to 36 people, expect plenty of laughs, photo stops, and maybe a cheeky drink or two — all soundtracked by your favourite tunes on their Bluetooth speakers. Party as you go and make stops along the way at a few bars for refreshments. Pedal Power is one of the most sought after party activities in Galway so if you're party planning be sure to drop them a line to get things rolling!
Address: Galway City (Various pickup points)
Make your party booking here | More information here

Venue: The Dáil Bar

What is it? - A Galway city gastrobar with a vibrant nightlife.
Best for: Hen/stag parties, family dinners, birthday parties.
Accommodates: Best for small to medium groups.
If you're looking for an iconic party venue in Galway city, The Dáil Bar hits all the right notes. With a reputation for award-winning cocktails, a large whiskey collection, and live entertainment every night of the week, this hotspot knows how to bring the buzz. Whether you're planning a sit-down celebration or a more casual affair with finger food and drinks, the team at The Dáil has your back, and your playlist! DJs and local bands keep the energy high, while service ensures your event runs as smoothly and hassle-free as possible.
Address: 42-44 Middle Street, Latin Quarter
Make your party booking here | More information here

Venue: Blackrock Cottage

What is it? - An award-winning seaside restaurant.
Best for: Corporate gatherings, graduations, anniversaries, family dinners.
Accommodates: Flexible to your event.
Celebrated for its seasonal menus and commitment to local suppliers, Blackrock Cottage in Salthill offers modern Irish dining with a contemporary twist. Whether you're planning a corporate dinner, a birthday celebration, or a private dining event in Galway, the team at Blackrock Cottage can create a bespoke menu to match the occasion. From finger food to a wine tasting event or a fancy three-course affair, every whim is catered to. And if you're dreaming of an entire restaurant takeover, they’re more than happy to make it happen.
Address: Blackrock House, Salthill
Make your party booking here | More information here

above: The Irish Dance Experience

Activity: The Irish Dance Experience

What is it? - Interactive Irish dance classes (for beginners!)
Best for: Hen parties, team-building, children’s birthday parties.
Accommodates: Flexible to your party size.
Avail of the Bespoke Experience at The Irish Dance Experience in Galway to really kick your party up a notch! These personalised Irish dance sessions are designed with your special occasion in mind. Perfect for corporate events, or family gatherings, this experience adapts their popular All-In Workshop to suit your needs. Their expert dance instructors can even come to your location to make it easy and fun for everyone. No prior dance experience is needed—just a willingness to have fun and embrace the moves!
Address: Claddagh Hall, Nimmo’s Pier, The Claddagh
Make your party booking here | More information here

Venue: Mary Mullen Bar

What is it? - A trad Irish bar at the front with a huge covered courtyard at the back.
Best for: Milestone birthday parties, hen/stag parties.
Accommodates: Best for medium to large groups.
Steeped in comfort and tradition, Mary Mullens Bar & Courtyard is one of the hottest party destinations in Galway city. And while the inside bar is cosy and snug (perfect for smaller groups), the real star of the show is its large and covered courtyard. This  sunlit oasis is adorned with neon-lights and Asian influenced décor. With ample room for groups of all sizes, whether you’re planning a birthday bash, a family reunion, or a low-key corporate gathering, Mary Mullen’s provides the perfect backdrop.
Address: 10 Prospect Hill, Galway City
Make your party booking here | More information here

Venue: The Olde Brewery

What is it? - An atmospheric sports and music bar.
Best for: Stag parties, birthday parties.
Accommodates: Best for small to medium groups.
If your ideal party setting includes live sports, great tunes, and a buzzing crowd, look no further than The Olde Brewery. With both indoor and outdoor areas, 3 bars, and 18 screens showing everything from GAA, rugby, football, horse-racing, and tennis, making it one of the best sports bars in Galway for groups. They have also got fantastic live music every Friday to Sunday, and a full bar menu. Whether you're rounding up the crew for a stag do or planning a casual birthday bash, this lively Oranmore venue is guaranteed to deliver the good times.
Address: Main Street, Oranmore
Make your party booking here | More information here

above: Seven Bar

Venue: Seven Bar 

What is it? - A lively gastrobar with events venue for hire upstairs.
Best for: Hen/stag parties, birthday parties, corporate gatherings.
Accommodates: Groups from 20 up to 250 people.
For those planning a big party in Galway, Seven Bar delivers on all fronts. Open late seven nights a week, they offer everything you need for a memorable gathering, from private party spaces to customisable group packages and mouthwatering menus. Smaller groups can enjoy private reserved areas, while those hosting larger events can take things upstairs to The Loft, Seven’s dedicated event space which caters to a max of 250 people. Expect live music, DJs, and a menu packed with delicious options (including their famous chicken wings).
Address: 5-7 Bridgestreet, Latin Quarter
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Venue: Kelehans Bar & Restaurant 

What is it? - A bar & restaurant with and events space and a large beer garden that has exceptional views
Best for: Birthday parties, hen/stag parties, graduations, family dinners.
Accommodates: Best for medium to large groups. Events space suitable for groups from 60 to 180 people.
For a celebration that promises great food, a festive atmosphere, and effortless organization, Kelehan’s Bar & Restaurant ticks all the right boxes. Their events space is designed with group celebrations in mind, accommodating anywhere from 60 to 180 guests, with add-on options like bar tabs and finger food platters. Conveniently located in Bushypark just outside Galway city, this welcoming bar and restaurant is perfect for hosting everything from birthday bashes to family dinners and unforgettable hen and stag nights.
Address: N59, Bushypark
Make your party booking here | More information here

Venue: Busker Brownes 

What is it? - A vibrant late night bar with private party areas and an unbeatable party atmosphere.
Best for: Graduations, milestone birthday parties, hen/stag parties.
Accommodates: Best for medium sized parties. Groups of 20 to 80 people.
Enjoy a late night with friends at one of the Latin Quarter’s most well loved bars, Busker Brownes. This is Galway’s party central all week long so it’ll come as no surprise for you to learn that it’s the preferred haunt for many celebrations in Galway. Parties of 20-50 people can reserve the stylish Slatehouse Bar area, while larger groups (up to 80 people) can book the Party Hall Venue, with a late bar and finger food platters available in both areas. From the live music and incredible menus, Busker Brownes has all your party needs covered.
Address: Cross Street Upper, Latin Quarter
Make your party booking here | More information here

above: The Skeff Late Bar & Kitchen 

Venue: The Skeff Late Bar & Kitchen 

What is it? - Late bar in the heart of Galway city, with its own dedicated cocktail and whiskey bars.
Best for: Corporate gatherings, birthday parties, graduations.
Accommodates: Best for small to medium groups.
With a late bar every night, live music, and DJs keeping the energy high, The Skeff Late Bar & Kitchen is the perfect spot for an unforgettable night out. For those looking to take things up a notch, The Skeff also offers cocktail masterclasses (€30 per person), which include cocktails, prosecco on arrival, and optional delicious finger food from just €5 per head — a brilliant option for hen parties and birthday groups. No matter what you’re celebrating, their tailored event packages and finger food platters elevates every celebration.
Address: 27 Eyre Square
Make your party booking here | More information here

Venue: Queen Street

What is it? - A chic gastrobar with a phenomenal cocktail menu.
Best for: Girls night out, hen parties, birthday parties, anniversaries, graduations.
Accommodates: Best for medium sized groups. Groups of 6 up to 100 people.
Why would you book a party if you can't take loads of gorgeous photos? Well at Queen Street every moment captured is a picture-perfect shot. Just a stone’s throw from Eyre Square, this stylish gastrobar offers the perfect backdrop for day-two of weddings, milestone birthdays, and family gatherings. They can cater for groups of up to 100 people and also have a private bar and function room available for hire. Queen Street also offers a variety of flexible packages and menus tailored to your event, making party planning effortless and fun.
Address: Victoria Place, Eyre Square
Make your party booking here | More information here

above: John Keoghs Gastropub

Venue: John Keoghs Gastropub

What is it? - A welcoming bar with private party spaces.
Best for: birthday parties, special occasions, corporate gatherings.
Accommodates: Best for medium to large groups. Group up to 120 people.
John Keogh’s is the party venue in Galway that has something to offer everyone. Offering top quality freshly prepared finger foods and a late bar, they can easily accommodate groups of all sizes, from intimate gatherings to private party spaces for up to 120 guests. For smaller groups, semi-private reserved areas are available too. For larger celebrations, guests can take over their spacious private party room, complete with their own DJ and a lively late-night bar to keep the good vibes flowing.
Address: 22-24 Dominick Street Upper, Galway’s Westend
Make your party booking here | More information here

Venue: MacNeill’s Pub 

What is it? - A traditional Irish pub with a fantastic tapas menu.
Best for: Corporate gatherings, anniversaries, birthday parties.
Accommodates: Flexible to your event.
If you are planning a party in Galway, chat to the team in MacNeill's Pub in order to plan your perfect celebration. Ideal for birthdays, hens and stags, work-dos and anniversary celebrations, at MacNeill's your party can enjoy reserved areas or private hire of the entire space with finger food packages available. Complete with live Irish trad music, warm hospitality, and an extensive selection of beverages, MacNeill’s continues to be a cherished hub for those who want to throw a fabulous party right in the heart of the city centre.
Address: Downstairs at The Hardiman on Eyre Square
Make your party booking here | More information here

Venue: The Quays Bar

What is it? - Latin Quarter bar known for its award-winning live entertainment.
Best for: birthday parties, hen/stag parties.
Accommodates: Best for medium to large groups.
Nestled in the heart of the Latin Quarter, the legendary Quays Bar comes alive every evening with phenomenal live performances from both local legends and visiting artists. With multiple accolades to its name, including winning ‘Best Live Entertainment Pub’ at the Bar of the Year Awards, The Quays offers an unbeatable blend of food, drinks, and live shows under one roof. Hosting your party here means you're guaranteed an unforgettable night surrounded by Galway’s vibrant music culture.
Address: 11 Quay Street, Latin Quarter
Make your party booking here | More information here

above: Taylor's Bar & Beer Garden 

Venue: Taylor’s Bar & Beer Garden 

What is it? - A buzzing venue with an atmospheric front bar and large beer garden.
Best for: BBQs, birthday parties, hen/stag parties.
Accommodates: Best for small to medium groups.
A night out at Taylor’s Bar & Beer Garden is the stuff of legends so it probably won’t be any surprise to you to see that they have made it onto our party list. Complete with live music and DJs playing until late every night, cocktails, shots, a heated beer garden, and your food supplied by their neighbours, the famed chicken joint Smashbird. What more could you ask for? With seating options inside or outside, this venue is ideal for groups of all sizes. Simply drop them a line today to get your party started!
Address: 7 Dominick Street Upper, Galway’s Westend
Make your party booking here | More information here

Venue: Ré Nao 

What is it? - A pretty riverside Chinese restaurant with a gorgeous cocktail bar.
Best for: Special occasions, birthday parties, family dinners, graduations.
Accommodates: Best for small to medium groups.
Welcoming and atmospheric, Ré Nao offers a range of delicious Chinese cuisine and drinks that appeal to every palate. Add in its fully stocked bar that serves incredible cocktails made from fresh, high-quality ingredients, and it’s no wonder this venue is such a favourite. Whether you’re hosting a birthday party, corporate gathering, or family get-together, Ré Nao’s unique décor is guaranteed to impress. Guests can also enjoy incredible views of the River Corrib while they celebrate their special occasion with friends and family.
Address: Spanish Arch
Make your party booking here | More information here

Activity: Virtual Reality World Galway

What is it? - An immersive VR experience.
Best for: Kids birthday parties, stag parties, corporate gatherings.
Accommodates: Best for small to medium groups.
For something truly unforgettable, Virtual Reality World Galway offers an interactive experience that’s perfect for groups seeking a bit of fun and adventure. Whether you’re racing simulated cars, solving VR escape room puzzles, or taking a virtual trip to exotic locations, Virtual Reality World brings cutting-edge virtual reality technology to Galway. The gaming venue features custom-built VR booths, and Ireland’s first Katwalkers, making it ideal for birthday parties, corporate team building, or simply a fun evening with friends.
Address: Unit 3 Liosban Industrial Estate, Tuam Road
Make your party booking here | More information here

above: Electric 

Venue: Electric 

What is it? - Galway’s only nightclub with private party areas.
Best for: Hen/stag parties, birthday parties.
Accommodates: Best for large groups.
When only a nightclub experience will do, Electric in Galway city centre is where the party comes alive every weekend. This is Galway’s only nightclub venue and with its unbeatable buzz, it’s a top pick for hen parties, stag nights, and birthday bashes that go big. Think booths, bottles, bubbles, and a booming soundtrack that will have your group dancing into the early hours. With VIP tables, top DJs, and late-night vibes in the heart of town, Electric delivers everything you'd want from a night that demands to be remembered
Address: 36 Upper Abbeygate Street, Galway City Centre
Make your party booking here | More information here

Venue: Massimo

What is it? - An eclectic bar and beer garden with a vibrant weekly entertainment lineup.
Best for: Birthday parties, hen/stag parties, corporate gatherings.
Accommodates: Best for medium and large groups.
For drinks and dirty dancing, Massimo in Galway's Westend is the spot for you! With quirky corners like the Soul Garden (complete with palm trees), cosy snugs, a spacious function area, and even a party van, this spot makes celebrations feel truly unique. Massimo’s cocktail menu will keep spirits high, while their party platters fuel the dancefloor well into the night. The weekend kicks off with karaoke nights on Thursdays, and by Friday night, Galway’s best DJs take over to keep the beats flowing.
Address: 10 William Street West, Galway’s Westend
Make your party booking here | More information here

Venue: HYDE Bar

What is it? - A stylish bar with dedicated events space and function room.
Best for: Graduations, hen parties, girls nights out, special occasions, birthday parties.
Accommodates: Flexible to your event.
Merging elegant interiors with standout service, HYDE Bar is already one of Galway’s most photogenic hotspots, but its glamorous event space, JEKYLL, takes things to the next level. No matter what kind of party you’re planning, JEKYLL offers an elegant and private backdrop for an unforgettable night out. With plush seating, signature cocktails, and a location just steps from Eyre Square, you can dine, dance, and toast in one of Galway’s most beautifully designed party venues.
Address: Forster Street
Make your party booking here | More information here

above: An Púcán 

Venue: An Púcán

What is it? - A lively bar with a large spacious beer garden.
Best for: BBQs, birthday parties, hen/stag parties.
Accommodates: Flexible to your event.
Perfect for any celebration, An Púcán bar and beer garden has something for every taste and style. Located just off Eyre Square, this vibrant venue boasts one of the city's most popular beer gardens, making it the perfect place for summer BBQs, family get-togethers, or a night out with your pals. From creative cocktails to craft beers and live entertainment every night of the week, whether you're celebrating a birthday, organising a casual corporate bash, or just keen to soak up the vibes of Galway's nightlife, this spot delivers every time.
Address: 11 Forster Street
Make your party booking here | More information here

Venue: BóTOWN 

What is it? - A burger joint known for their phenomenal dishes.
Best for: birthday parties.
Accommodates: Best for small to medium groups.
Do you want to throw the kind of party where you can keep things cool, casual, and incredibly delicious? Look no further than BóTOWN, one of Galway’s best burger joints. Their private upstairs area can host up to 60 guests, making it ideal for birthday dinners, pre-drinks with your friends, or low-key celebrations that still hit every note. With a menu packed full of mouth-watering burgers, loaded sides, craft beers, and signature cocktails, it’s the kind of place where the vibe is as good as the food.
Address: 57 Dominick Street Lower, Galway’s Westend
Make your party booking here | More information here

Venue: M. Fitzgeralds Bar

What is it? - A cosy and welcoming gastrobar with fabulous cocktail selection.
Best for: Graduations, birthday parties, girls nights out, family dinners.
Accommodates: Best for small to medium groups.
When it comes to throwing a shindig, M. Fitzgeralds Bar on Quay Street have made quite the name for themselves. With a menu of expertly crafted cocktails, tasty sharing plates, and plenty of cosy corners, it’s a great pick for parties of all occasions. Be it a small gathering, a reunion or a match-day party in front of the big screen, the team at M. Fitzgeralds will ensure that you enjoy an unforgettable celebration with them.
Address: 14 Quay Street, Latin Quarter
Make your party booking here | More information here

above: Coyotes

Venue: Coyotes 

What is it? - Late bar with unique theme and bar dancers.
Best for: Hen/stag parties, milestone birthday parties.
Accommodates: Best for medium sized groups.
If you're looking to dial the party up to full volume, Coyotes is your go-to Galway hotspot. Spanning four floors of high-energy fun, they offer a variety of packages for you and your guests where you receive guest entry, reserved seating areas and a glass of bubbly or round of shots for each member of your group. Coyotes’ fabulous party hostesses and booking staff will take care of everything on the night, and resident live bands and DJs will keep the music going until the early hours.
Address: 34 Shop Street, Galway City
Make your party booking here | More information here

Venue: Merchant Bar & Restaurant 

What is it? - A classy bar and restaurant in the heart of Galway city centre.
Best for: Graduations, milestone birthday parties, family dinners
Accommodates: Best for small to medium groups.
As part of the Eyre Square Hotel, the Merchant Bar & Restaurant offers an elegant and accessible party setting ideal for groups visiting or based in Galway. Just steps from train and bus links, this well-connected venue makes planning a breeze. Inside, you’ll find tastefully curated Irish and European menus, perfect for adult groups and families alike. Regardless of what occasion you are planning, Merchant Bar & Restaurant  delivers style, and standout service in one central location.
Address: Eyre Square Hotel, 6 Forster Street
Make your party booking here | More information here

Call a Cab - Get your party home safe!

After enjoying a party in Galway city, get home safely with Big O Taxis. As Galway’s largest taxi fleet, they offer unparalleled service 24/7—even on Christmas Day and New Year’s Eve. With a fleet of approximately 150 taxis, you’ll never have to wait long for a ride. Whether you need a standard taxi, a wheelchair-accessible vehicle, or a spacious 5, 6, 7, or 8-seater cab, they have you covered. If you want to skip the phone lines, book your ride instantly with the Big O Taxis app, available for iPhone and Android. With just a few taps, you can schedule a pickup, track your taxi in real time, and enjoy a hassle-free ride—all without speaking to a dispatcher. Call yourself a cab here.

If you decide to throw your party at home instead, no worries at all because we have an article to help you plan your party at home too! Galway is full of businesses who offer top quality catering services so hit the link HERE to learn all about them!

Feature photo courtesy of Busker Brownes.