Mark your calendars—March 17th is St. Patrick’s Day, and this year, it falls on a Bank Holiday Monday! That means you can make the most of a full weekend packed with exciting events, live entertainment, and delicious food and drinks as Galway bursts into celebration. Whether you're looking for vibrant parades, live Irish music, or the best family-friendly events to celebrate the occasion, there's something for everyone.
The weekend guide is sponsored by The Skeff Bar and Kitchen, the home to live music 7 nights a week in Galway. Check out The Skeff's weekend lineup right HERE. On Saturday 15th at 2.15pm, Ireland takes on Italy in a huge Six Nations showdown, and if you want to tune into all the action, choose The Skeff Bar & Kitchen! With 9 screens, 6 bars, and an electric atmosphere, you won’t miss a second of the action. All roads lead to The Skeff for the ultimate match day experience! Take on their Split the G challenge for a chance to win a free pint of Guinness! Or, try the penalty kick game to win exclusive Irish Rugby Ireland jerseys, Guinness Merch and much more!!
Start planning your unforgettable St. Patrick’s weekend in Galway—you deserve it! Lá Fhéile Pádraig sona daoibh!!!
above: photo from St Patrick's Day 2024 by Chaosheng Zhang
St. Patrick’s Day Parades around Galway
On Monday March 17th, the Galway City Parade will start at 11.30am from the University of Galway. Its route will continue over the Salmon Weir Bridge, to Eglinton Street and onwards past the viewing stand at Eyre Square, to Bóther na mBan and finish at the Dyke Road Car Park. The parade will mark the highlight of a 3-day celebration of Irish culture and will serve as a platform to showcase the creativity of local artists and community groups. Corofin native Sharon Shannon is leading this year’s parade, which will see 50 community groups and over 3,000 participants take to the streets of Galway showcasing the city’s heritage, music, dance and different cultural backgrounds through this year’s theme ‘sea and stone.’ A celebration of Galway City’s unique location on the Atlantic coast.
In Tuam, the parade will take place from 2pm, and follow the same route as last year, going through Shop Street and Bishop Street. This year’s theme is ‘health is better than wealth’, and there will also be a prize for best window display, so be sure to keep your eyes peeled for which one you think is the best! Likewise, the parade in Moycullen will begin at 2pm, and will be led by Galway’s St Patrick’s brass band, while this year’s grand marshal will be Ailbhe Davoren, Galway Senior Captain, All Star.
Out in West Galway, the Clifden parade will take place from 12.30pm, with entertainment on the Town Square, live music, a kids disco and much more festivities to follow!
The theme of Loughrea’s St Patrick’s Day parade is ‘connections,’ (start time 1pm), as the community comes together in celebration of their locale. In a similar spirit, the theme of Gort’s parade this year will be ‘our community’. With family-friendly entertainment such as face painting and a puppet show lined up as well.
The St Patrick’s Day Parade in Athenry will take place from 11.30am, following the theme of 'together we're more than the sum of our parts', which celebrates the United Nations’ 'International Year of Co-operatives'. Kicking off from 2pm, the Abbeyknockmoy's St Patrick's Day Parade will be streamed live as it passes the Judges Viewing Stand, in order to share the magic of this year’s festival with loved ones who can’t attend on the day.
In Ballinasloe the parade will begin at 2pm with several prizes up for grabs for participants. Among them, there will be prizes in cultural, education, voluntary, sporting and commercial categories, plus a special cash prize for Best Entertaining Novelty Entry.
Portumna’s parade will start at 12pm, with live music in the Town Square also. In Craughwell, their parade’s Grand Marshal will be paralympic athlete Shauna Bocque, who also played a key role in the development of the new athletics track in Craughwell. Viewers will get a chance to vote via QR code (displayed through the village on the day) for the best float as seen in the parade, with the winner being announced later that same day.
above: St Patrick's Day Parade 2024, photo by Chaosheng Zhang
Things to do in Galway this St Patrick’s Weekend
Entertainment: Paddy’s 2025 Weekender
When: Friday 14th to Monday 17th March
Where: The Skeff
More information here
Celebrate your Paddy’s weekend with The Skeff Bar & Kitchen because they’ve got an epic line-up of live music across the entire weekend! With Evoke, Dave G, Robbie Monaghan, Starlight, DJ Ferg, Liam Óg & James, Tobi Kaye, DJ Mark M, and Jack Reilly to perform over the weekend. On the main day itself, St Patrick’s Day, The Skeff will have live music from 12pm and thanks to their unbelievable location on Eyre Square they are the perfect venue for pre and post parade food and drinks. They’ll also be showing the incredible final to the Six Nations, and of course there will be plenty of craic and special offers to enjoy throughout the weekend too.
Dining: St Patrick’s Weekend’ Bacon & Cabbage Smashburger Special
When: Available Saturday to Monday, regular opening hours
Where: Ithe Smashburgers
More information here
Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with a bold twist on tradition at Ithe Smashburgers, where indulgence meets Irish heritage. Their new Paddy’s Weekend special ‘the Bacon & Cabbage Smashburger’ features a perfectly crafted bacon and cabbage patty paired with a juicy beef patty, all topped with a fried egg and nestled between a soft, warm potato bun. To complement this decadent creation, savor their lush Paddy's weekend cocktail – Leacht na nÓg. A refreshing mix of melon liqueur, cucumber syrup, lime juice, and a sparkling finish of prosecco, it’s the perfect drink to toast to good times and great company.
Nightlife: Electric Patrick’s Weekender
When: Friday 14th to Monday 17th March
Where: Electric Galway
More information here
Get ready for four nights at the biggest club in town with 15 of Ireland’s best DJs on three dancefloors at Electric. Don’t miss: storytelling and poetry with Scéalarious on Saturday evening, global star Or:la and local legends Hannah Hession and brawni with Basement Project on Sunday, and Monday’s massive St Patrick’s night party. Irish DJs all the way, poetry & storytelling - non stop dancing. What more could you want?! Galway is the place to be this Patrick's Weekend so make sure you’re there!
Live Music: Pinch of Snuff
When: Sunday 16th and Monday 17th March, at 8pm and 2pm respectively
Where: Mary Mullens Bar
More information here
All the way from Japan, Irish Trad Band Pinch of Snuff is landing in Galway for two unforgettable shows at Mary Mullens for St Patrick's Weekend! This is going to be their first ever Irish gig so don't miss this rare opportunity to experience their electrifying sound live! We’ll see you there! No tickets required, so be sure to get in early. Mary Mullens will be open from 10am both days so be sure to call in for delicious food and drinks with your pals ahead of Pinch of Snuff’s shows.
above: Pinch of Snuff, performing at Mary Mullens this Paddy's Weekend
Nightlife: Paddy’s Night
When: Monday 17th March, from 10pm
Where: The Loft at Seven Bar
Tickets are available here
Get ready to shamrock and roll! Join The Loft Seven for the ultimate St. Patrick's Day bash! DJs will be spinning the tunes all night long starting from 10pm! Tickets are just €10, and there’s a free Jameson and Ginger for the first 50 people through their doors. Come for the craic, stay for the tunes, and let’s make St. Patrick proud! Seven Bar will also be shaking up plenty of their new drink special, from the magically delicious Lucky Charm cocktail, to their zesty Malfy Lemon/Rosa & Schweppes Tonic, and a tasty Absolut Flavor & Dash. It’s 10% off on cocktails from Sunday to Thursday so be sure to get a round in!
Shop: Website Launch & Kilo Sale
When: Friday 14th to Sunday 16th March
Where: Planet Retro Vintage
More information here
This weekend, Planet Retro has some very exciting news to share! This Friday will see them launch their new online store and you are all invited to join them for the party. With food, drinks, DJs and fun guaranteed, there will also be a kilo sale in-store which will run across the entire weekend. For only €30 per kilo, you’d be daft to miss it! Open from 10.30am to 5.30pm, don’t miss it!
Entertainment: St Patrick’s Day Weekend
When: Friday 14th to Monday 17th March
Where: The Quays Bar
More information here
It’s Paddy’s Weekend so you won’t be surprised to hear that The Quays Bar are once again going all out to provide you with the best line up of live entertainment as possible. In the line up for the Music Hall this weekend are; Peter Byrne & Glass Onion Band on Friday, Paul Ward and the Humble Earthworm on Saturday and The Sixty Five on Sunday. Additionally, there will be live music from 6pm daily in the bar and delicious local food served all day. Then, on the main day, the Music Hall will be open from 2pm with music from The Unusual Suspects and free live music until 7pm!
Dance: Group Céilí with Irish Dance Experience
When: Sunday 16th March, at 1.50pm to 2.20pm
Where: Eyre Square
More information here
As part of Galway City Council’s lineup of free events taking place on Eyre Square across St Patrick’s Weekend, the Irish Dance Experience will be hosting a group céilí on the square on Sunday with all invited to come along to spectate, show them some love and maybe even get involved yourself! Should you be in town a bit earlier in the day, Eyre Square will also host a series of fun sports activities for families with the Galway Sports Partnership from 11am.
Entertainment: ABSENT presents Paddy was an Emo
When: Saturday 15th March, from 8pm
Where: The Cellar Bar
Tickets are available here
It’s the first ABSENT gig of the year, and it’s going to be legendary. The ABSENT gang are taking things up a notch with some new cool features. Their Deep Cuts hour we see them playing songs by the likes of State Champs/Neck Deep/Alkaline Trio/Static Dress/Deaf Havana/Underoath/Hawthorne Heights/The Starting Line and many, many more mixed in with lesser known songs from your favourite bands and albums. With Words that Burn and Teras.Tribe added to the bill on the night, and the DJs you already know and love playing until close, this is not a night to miss!
Rowing: Galway Head of the River
When: Saturday 15th March, at 11am, & 3pm
Where: River Corrib
More information here
Galway’s premier rowing event, the Tribesmen Head of the River, makes a highly anticipated return to the River Corrib this Saturday, marking its 36th anniversary and the start of the rowing regatta season. This thrilling 4.2km race will see both international and domestic crews competing for glory as they navigate the course from the lake, past the historic Menlo Castle, and finish at the Quincentennial Bridge in Galway. Sponsored by Boston Scientific, this St. Patrick’s weekend spectacle is back for the first time since 2013, bringing thrilling competition to Galway’s waters. Crews from the USA, UK, and Germany will join top domestic talent to race the three-mile course. Spectators can enjoy the action from the scenic riverbanks before celebrations continue with a prize-giving ceremony at the University Bar from 6pm and an after-party at the Róisín Dubh from 8pm.
Launch: Limited Coffee Company Launch Party
When: Saturday 15th March, from 10am
Where: Unit 8a, Liosban Industrial Estate
More information here
The popular coffee truck Limited Coffee Co is opening their first indoor location this Saturday at the Liosban Industrial Estate. To celebrate the occasion they’re linking up with their pals over at the Galway run clubs; Running on Beans and Connexions to make the day extra special. Providing hit tunes from 10am, DJ Ferdilicious will be taking the vibes to the next level as you enjoy a delicious cuppa from Limited Coffee Co, and help them celebrate their big day.
Special Occasion: EYE Cinema’s 20th Birthday
When: Friday 14th to Monday 17th March
Where: Eye Cinema, Wellpark
More information here
This March Bank Holiday weekend, you are all cordially invited to join the EYE Cinema for their BIG 20th birthday celebrations. Kicking off on Friday 14th March at 8pm, these celebrations will begin with a ‘mystery screening’ of the very first film ever played at the EYE Cinema: whether or not you remember what it was, you should tag along for some laughs. Tickets for this event are just €7 and include a small popcorn and a small drink on arrival. In addition to this, all Loyalty Club members will be treated to a 10% discount on food from Friday to Monday, and on St. Patrick’s Day all movie tickets will be priced only €8 - and there will be a free popcorn for everyone in the audience too. Visit www.eyecinema.ie to book your tickets in advance.
Nightlife: Annie Mac ‘Before Midnight’
When: Saturday 15th March, from 7pm
Where: Leisureland
Tickets are available here
After an incredible show at Galway International Art Festival in 2024, Annie Mac is returning to Galway this March to bring audiences Before Midnight live. Before Midnight is an inclusive clubbing concept started by Annie, and are dance music events for anyone who enjoys a lengthy DJ set, but still likes to be in bed at a reasonable hour, with events wrapping up… before midnight. Don’t miss it!
Nightlife: Club GASS - St Patrick’s Day Special
When: Saturday 15th March, from 10pm
Where: Róisín Dubh
Tickets are available here
Get ready for a St. Patrick’s celebration like no other at Club GASS, Galway’s ultimate LGBTQ+ club night! They’re bringing the energy, the music, and the fierce performances to make this a Saturday night to remember. On the main stage, The George’s resident DJ Ruth will be spinning the hottest tracks, while DJ John keeps the party going upstairs. And that’s just the beginning! The one and only Kiki St Clair, Queen of Galway, will be hosting a spectacular show, joined by the dazzling Galway Queens, serving up fierce performances all night long. So grab your friends, throw on your best green outfit, and get ready to dance, celebrate, and party the night away—Club GASS style!
Live Music: Amos Moses
When: Monday 17th March, at 4pm (free) and 8pm
Where: Róisín Dubh
Tickets are available here
Amos Moses is back home at Róisín Dubh for an explosive St. Patrick’s Day celebration! Known for their high-energy rock and raw, energetic sound, the band will bring their hometown spirit to the stage for an unforgettable night of classic rock vibes and frenetic energy. They’ve toured with High Fade, Alabama 3, and The Gulls, wowing audiences from festival tents to venues across Europe. With a powerful mix of acoustic and electric guitars, tight percussion, and raw stage presence, Amos Mose is on a mission to keep the spirit of hard rock alive. Don’t miss them and be sure to attend either their free 4pm show or the ticketed 8pm show.
above: Amos Moses, performing at the Róisín Dubh this Patrick's Day
Comedy: Áine Gallagher presents For the Love of Milseáin
When: Friday 14th March, at 8pm
Where: Town Hall Studio
Tickets are available here
The award-winning comedian and Ireland’s “queen of the offbeat” Áine Gallagher, is on a mission to prove that speaking Irish can be both accessible and hilarious. As Ireland’s only guerrilla Irish language enthusiast, Áine has been travelling the length and the breadth of the country with her Cup of Focals (a literal cup brimming with Irish words), to understand the nation’s widespread fear of engaging in the Irish language. However, in ‘For the love of Milseáin’, audiences can sit back, feel inspired and enjoy Áine’s tales, such as when she met our president Michael D Higgins and other similar disasters in her own journey to learn Irish. With her deadpan, offbeat and wholly unique style, there is no doubt Áine will ignite your passion for Irish, even if you don’t know a word.
Entertainment Dining: Naughty Noughties Bottomless Brunch
When: Sunday 16th March, from 3pm
Where: Queen Street
Tickets are available here
Get ready to relive the wild and carefree vibes of the 2000s at Queen Street’s iconic Naughty Noughties Bottomless Brunch. Join your incredible host Kage Campbell for a trip down memory lane as they bring back the biggest hits from the 00s. From Britney to Beyonce, NSYNC to Nelly, this event will have you reminiscing on all of your favourite pop and RnB hits. Enjoy 100 MINUTES of bottomless prosecco or mimosas along with a delicious brunch in Queen Street. And, if you think you know your 00s music – they want you to grab the mic and belt out those classics. So dust off your low-rise jeans, charge up your flip phone and get down to Queen Street for a party like no other!
Comedy: Des Bishop presents.. ‘Lately’
When: Saturday 15th March, at 8pm
Where: Town Hall Theatre
Tickets are available here
Back in Galway just in time for Paddy’s Weekend, Des Bishop has returned with his new show ‘Lately’. The world has changed, Ireland has changed, and Des’s life has changed…A LOT. ‘Lately’ is an hilarious, in-your-face standup show that talks about all this and more as Des tries to make sense of all the changes in his life and all our lives. Des Bishop has a habit of selling out shows so you best act fast to secure your seats.
In addition to these fantastic events, Galway City Council has organised a variety of family-friendly activities across both the city and Salthill. Eyre Square will host three days of live music and cultural performances, including face painting and circus acts. Meanwhile, the Tribesman Head of the River race returns to the Corrib on Saturday, March 15th, attracting rowers and spectators from near and far for an exhilarating competition on the water. For even more family fun, Salthill will feature extra activities on Sunday, March 16th—so mark your calendars!
The weekend guide is sponsored by The Skeff Bar and Kitchen, the home to live music 7 nights a week in Galway. Check out The Skeff's weekend lineup right HERE. On Saturday 15th at 2.15pm, Ireland takes on Italy in a huge Six Nations showdown, and if you want to tune into all the action, choose The Skeff Bar & Kitchen! With 9 screens, 6 bars, and an electric atmosphere, you won’t miss a second of the action. All roads lead to The Skeff for the ultimate match day experience! Take on their Split the G challenge for a chance to win a free pint of Guinness! Or, try the penalty kick game to win exclusive Irish Rugby Ireland jerseys, Guinness Merch and much more!!
Feature photo by Chaosheng Zhang
Published on Updated on
