To celebrate World Oceans Day (June 8th), and this year’s theme 'Wonder', Galway City Museum is hosting Ocean Celebration Week from Monday, 2nd June to Friday, 6th June 2025. The Marine Institute is delighted to collaborate on this week-long programme, which features a range of free, family-friendly activities designed to spark curiosity and deepen our connection with Ireland’s marine environment.
Organised in partnership with Galway Atlantaquaria and the Marine Institute, the event will include interactive exhibits, lunchtime talks, and engaging beach activities that invite visitors to explore the beauty and complexity of our ocean. From young ocean explorers to lifelong marine enthusiasts, there’s something for everyone.
“Ocean Celebration Week is a brilliant opportunity for people of all ages to discover more about the sea and Dive into wonder: Celebrate World Oceans Day at the Galway City Museum’s Ocean Celebration Week its importance in our daily lives. I’m excited to help deliver events that make marine science accessible, fun, and meaningful for our community. The theme of ‘Wonder’ really captures what we hope people will feel – that sense of awe and curiosity about our ocean world,” said Lea Delhaise the Marine Institute funded Graduate Intern at Galway City Museum.
The Marine Institute’s close partnership with Galway City Museum continues through the exhibition The Wild Atlantic – Sea Science, an immersive, interactive space that brings the story of Ireland’s ocean to life. Visitors can learn about marine biodiversity, ocean exploration, and the critical role of ocean science in protecting our planet.
What’s on:
Exhibition: The Wild Atlantic - Sea Science
When: June 2nd to 6th
Where: Galway City Museum
More information here
Developed in partnership with the Marine Institute, The Wild Atlantic - Sea Science is an interactive exhibition that focuses on the wonders of the marine world.
Beach Activity: Explore the shore - Where History meets the Sea
When: June 2nd, at 3.30pm to 5pm
Where: Grattan Beach
More information here
Join Galway City Museum from 3.30pm at Grattan Beach as, with the Galway Atlantaquaria, they celebrate the natural beauty and rich history of Ireland’s coastline. Take part in a Biofact and Historical Artefact Hunt as they uncover the secrets of the sea. Search for shells and ocean treasures washed ashore by the tides, and learn how the museums help safeguard these clues to the past and the vibrant life beneath the waves. They will also have a 2 minute beach cleanup to keep their shoreline litter-free! Please note that this event is suitable for all ages!
Lunchtime Talk: Marine Birds under Pressure
When: June 4th, at 1pm to 1.50pm
Where: Galway City Museum
More information here
Join Kylie Milne, marine biologist from the WARPPEd Project, for an engaging talk on Ireland’s marine bird species and the growing environmental pressures they face. You’ll also get to observe real and impressive Irish specimens up close! No booking required – early arrival is recommended to secure a seat. World Ocean Day is celebrated globally on June 8th, offering a perfect opportunity to reflect on and appreciate the incredible marine environment that surrounds Ireland. At Galway City Museum, they’ve lined up an exciting week of free events to mark the occasion. Come join the celebration!
above: photo by Chaosheng Zhang
Lunchtime Talk: Giants of the Atlantic - Whales & Dolphins of Ireland
When: June 5th, at 1pm to 1.50pm
Where: Galway City Museum
More information here
Explore the fascinating world of Ireland’s marine mammals with Sibéal Regan, a marine biologist from Galway Atlantaquaria previously working with the Irish Whale and Dolphin Group. No booking required – early arrival is recommended to secure a seat. World Ocean Day is celebrated globally on June 8th, offering a perfect opportunity to reflect on and appreciate the incredible marine environment that surrounds Ireland. At Galway City Museum, they’ve lined up an exciting week of free events to mark the occasion. Come join the celebration!
Lunchtime Talk: Secrets of the Sea - A Photographer's Journey
When: June 6th, at 1pm to 1.50pm
Where: Galway City Museum
More information here
End the week with a captivating talk by Martin Kiely, an underwater photographer who captures the hidden beauty of Ireland’s marine life. Hear his thrilling stories and marvel at his stunning photographs. No booking required – early arrival is recommended to secure a seat. World Ocean Day is celebrated globally on June 8th, offering a perfect opportunity to reflect on and appreciate the incredible marine environment that surrounds Ireland. At Galway City Museum, they’ve lined up an exciting week of free events to mark the occasion. Come join the celebration!
For more information on Ocean Celebration Week and a full schedule of events, please visit Galway City Museum’s website at galwaycitymuseum.ie
above: photo by Chaosheng Zhang
Main image courtesy of Galway City Museum.
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