Galway City New Year’s Eve, prioritizing families with a vibrant, family-friendly event invites residents and visitors alike to welcome 2026 early with music, art, and a special countdown in the heart of the city.
The event, an initiative under the Galway City Council’s Night-Time Economy programme, will take place on December 31st at the historical Grounds of St. Nicholas Collegiate Church.
Galway City New Year's Eve Event Details:
What: Galway City New Year's Eve Family Friendly Festivities including live music, early countdown, and visual art.
Where: The Grounds of St. Nicholas Collegiate Church, Galway City
When: December 31st, 2025, from 6pm to 9pm
Countdown: A special, family-friendly countdown will take place at 8.30pm, marked by the iconic chimes of St. Nicholas Collegiate Church bells.
FREE and open to all.
A Night of Music, Merriment, and Magic
The grounds of St. Nicholas Collegiate Church will transform into a lively hub of entertainment, featuring a diverse lineup of entertainment.
The Galway Ukulele Tribe will start the night with their infectious, fun, and lively renditions of popular hits - from The Beatles, David Bowie, The Saw Doctors, to The Waterboys. There may even be a couple of seasonal favourites!
Followed by TBL8, the high-energy brass band. Known for their infectious sound and dynamic stage presence, TBL8 breathes new life into popular hits and classic tunes with a powerful, modern brass ensemble twist.
Bringing the evening's entertainment to an electric peak is PrYmary Colours, the vibrant and acclaimed act known for fusing music, dance, performance, and aesthetics into one neat, pumping package. Described as the "sparkle on a red-hot bassline," they are fresh off playing iconic stages like the House of Yes in New York and the Olympia in Dublin, alongside major festivals including Electric Picnic, Forbidden Fruit, and Latitude UK. PrYmary Colours will deliver a high-octane blend of electronic-infused pop and funk, leading right up to and concluding the early family countdown.
Trick of the Light: A Bespoke Multimedia Experience
Beyond the stage, audiences can experience the mesmerizing art installation, “Trick of the Light.” This multi-media project is a bespoke Audio-Visual commissioned work that will be video mapped onto the outdoor facade of St. Nicholas Church. Additional light displays can be seen on Spanish Arch. Through these illuminated displays, Trick of the Light aims to enliven public spaces and inspire hope and warmth during the winter nights.
The installations, created by local artists Jennifer Cunningham and Jane Cassidy in conjunction with Merlin Park Training Centre, incorporate themes of Community and Connection, local stories, and personal histories, offering a beacon of brightness during the dark days of winter. Trick of the Light is funded by Creative Ireland and Galway City Council and can be viewed at St. Nicholas Church and Spanish Arch daily from 5pm from December 27th – January 2nd.
Galway City Council Chief Executive Leonard Cleary highlighted the importance of such events: “This event is part of Galway City Council's ongoing efforts to enhance Galway’s thriving and diverse night-time economy. It showcases the city's commitment to providing safe and enjoyable experiences for people of all ages, and we're delighted to welcome visitors and families to celebrate this special moment.”
Continue the Celebration
Families are invited to enjoy the atmosphere surrounding the festivities. The Galway Christmas Market will be open from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM for last-minute treats and gifts. Furthermore, Galway's restaurants, bars, and cafes will be open throughout the evening, offering delicious food and beverages. After the 9:00 PM conclusion at St. Nicholas Collegiate Church, revellers are invited to continue their New Year's celebrations at one of Galway's many iconic bars and live music venues.
Follow @thisisgalway for more information and use the hashtag #NYEGalwayCity when posting to get involved!
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