Looking for things to do in Galway this weekend? We've got you covered! With family-friendly festivals, free events, live music and so much more, there's something here for everyone. Check out our ultimate guide to the best events happening in Galway this weekend and start planning your perfect getaway!
The weekend guide is sponsored by The Skeff Bar & Kitchen, the home to live music 7 nights a week in Galway. Check out The Skeff's weekend lineup right HERE. Come along to the next exclusive Live Makeup Masterclass at Grace’s Drinking Club in The Skeff Bar & Kitchen, hosted by NARS on Wednesday 12th November at 7.30pm. It will be hosted by visiting NARS Senior Artist Eve Valos, supported by the amazing Galway team, as they guide you through a festive-inspired look to get you glowing ahead of the Christmas season Tickets are €50 (€45 redeemable against NARS products) and are extremely limited — don’t delay, book your spot today HERE!
Festival: TULCA Festival of Visual Arts
When: From Friday, November 7th
Where: Galway City
More information here
This November, Galway will transform into a city-wide gallery as TULCA Festival of Visual Arts returns for its 23rd edition. Audiences are invited to explore “Strange lands still bear common ground,” a rich and imaginative exhibition journey curated by Beulah Ezeugo. This year’s festival gathers 26 artists and collectives from Ireland and beyond, working across installation, film, performance, and sound. Festival-goers can expect gallery tours, processions, screenings, talks, and participatory events designed to spark conversation and connection. With its blend of curiosity, critical thought, and creative energy, TULCA 2025 offers both a celebration and an invitation; to find common ground, even in the strangest of places. This Friday from 7pm, join artists, contributors, and guests for an evening reception at the TULCA Gallery, Hynes Building to mark the official opening of the 2025 festival. The evening will also see the launch of TULCA’s latest publication, Strange lands still bear common ground, an extension of the exhibition and a reflection of its central ideas, followed by the official festival afterparty at Electric Galway.
above: still from All Trace Is Gone, No Clamour for A Kiss, 2021-22- Chris Zhongtian Yuan TULCA
Fundraiser: The Sunflower Sessions
When: Saturday, November 8th, from 3pm
Where: Massimo
More information here
The Sunflower Sessions are back this Saturday with an afternoon of live music, art, and good vibes for a great cause. Expect acoustic music, and vibrant local vendors selling a mix of crafts, clothing, prints and artwork. There will also be someone doing lino printing so you’re welcome to bring your own clothes to print on, and sunflower project merch will be available as well. All donations will go towards funding care packages for young people in eating disorder treatment during the Christmas period, with any extra proceeds supporting Bodywhys. If you or anyone you know would like to get involved in fundraising/organising a sunflower sessions event, contact siobhan.kelleher892@gmail.com.
Special Occasion: Tig Chóilí turns 25!!
When: Sunday to Tuesday, November 9th to 11th
Where: Mainguard Street
More information here
Tig Chóilí is celebrating 25 years in business with 3 days of gigs by some of the top traditional Irish musicians around. Here’s what they have planned for the special occasion - on Sunday, playing from 4pm are Matt Molloy, John Carty and Brian McGrath. Monday afternoon (from 3pm) will welcome music from Don Stiffe, Matt Keane and Ronan O’Flaherty. And, closing out their celebration on Tuesday, Frankie Gavin, Noel Hill and Catherine McHugh are performing from 3pm. There’s no cover charge of any of these performances so be sure to get in early and grab the best seats in the house. The team at Tig Chóilí are really looking forward to these few days of music and we hope you can pop in for a pint and to help them celebrate 25 years of music, fun and friendship! We’ll see you there!
Festival: Going Coastal 2025
When: Thursday to Sunday, November 7th to 9th
Where: Galway’s Westend
More information here
Going Coastal, the festival celebrating contemporary original music from Ireland’s western edge, returns for its third consecutive year with the Going Coastal Weekender. Going Coastal continues to support emerging artists, foster collaboration between promoters, and offer audiences a chance to engage with Galway’s thriving independent music scene. The Weekender kicks off on Friday with a two-floor takeover at Róisín Dubh, curated by A Modern Movement and Shark School. The night brings together some of the most exciting emerging artists from across the western edge of Ireland, spanning indie, experimental, and alternative sounds. Saturday will welcome music and markets during the daytime and evening time in both Massimo and The Blue Note, whereas Sunday will feature live music in Club Áras na nGael from Field Trip, Back To Winnipeg, Eoin Dolan, Sulk Hogan and TransAtlantic.
Dining: Happy Hour at Street Dog
When: Thursday, November 6th, at 7pm
Where: 4 Cross Street
More information here
Available for one hour (from 7-8pm) this and every Thursday, you can order the classic dog at Street Dog for only €3! Offering Galway’s ultimate hot dog experience, at Street Dog Galway they are all about incredible flavours, amazing portions, and street food done right. This vibrant takeaway brings the classic American street food experience to the heart of Galway city and is known for its gourmet hot dogs, crispy fries, and refreshing beers and non-alcoholic beverages. Let’s just say that hot dog lovers of Galway, if you haven't already tried Street Dog on Cross Street, now is the time to do it. This offer is incredible!
Comedy: Cornelius Patrick O’Sullivan - Pull Hard
When: Thursday, November 6th, at 7.30pm
Where: The Kings Head
More information here
Award-winning comedian, writer and podcaster Cornelius Patrick O’Sullivan is furious. If he had his time back again, he would do it all differently. Alas this is not an option so as he looks his forties firmly in the face he has hatched a new plan. To live his life vicariously through his seven-year-old son Harvey. What possibly could go wrong?!? Pull Hard is a brand-new stand-up comedy show that deals with fatherhood and middle age and the lingering disappointment of lost opportunity. The hour is seasoned with tales of GAA matches, failed diets and expensive babysitters. Above all it’s a show about hope and endeavour. A stand-up performance not to be missed see him live for yourself this Thursday night by getting your tickets at the above link.
Music: Airneánach | Nightbird - A Series of Evening Performances
When: Friday, November 7th, at 8pm
Where: St. Nicholas’ Collegiate Church
More information here
Introducing Airneánach | Nightbird, a new series of performances taking place at Galway's oldest building, St Nicholas' Collegiate Church. Airneánach is a creative dialogue between the ancient fabric of the church and the city's contemporary soul. A curated series of live performances that weaves together the past, present, and future of Galway. They are uniting sound and visuals to showcase the incredible talent of Galway and Ireland, honouring the building's deep history while placing it firmly within modern-day life. Join Airneánach for three nights of spectacular performances, starting with tessio on Friday night. tessio is a singer-songwriter duo from Derry, made up of Callum Feeney and Jude McCandless. They write, record, and produce their own songs, which feature acoustic guitars and close harmonies. This is going to be a performance that will resonate through the nave and aisles, honouring the timeless spirit of the church.
Café Lates: Yawlag Organica
When: Thursday, November 6th, at 6pm
Where: Little Collins CBD Dispensary
More information here
This November, Yawlag: Organica’s series of free music nights continues fortnightly to bring warm, organic sounds to the heart of Galway. The series features Yawlag Collective residents and guest DJs exploring the lush world of organic downtempo – a genre blending electronic beats with acoustic instrumentation, earthy textures, and global rhythms. Rooted in chill-out culture, organic downtempo creates a grounding and immersive atmosphere, perfect for early evening listening. Known for its welcoming atmosphere, plant-based treats, and community spirit, Little Collins provides the ideal backdrop for unwinding midweek. With its relaxed setting, it offers a unique alternative to the city’s usual nightlife – a place where people can connect over music without the pressure of late nights or alcohol.
Theatre: Between the Lines
When: Thursday, November 6th, at 8.30pm
Where: Town Hall Studio
More information here
Between the Lines is a captivating evening of theatre presented by the students of Echo Acting. Under the direction of acclaimed actor and facilitator Áine Ní Laoghaire, this showcase features a rich selection of scenes from celebrated plays across a range of genres, from the comedic to the tragic, the classic to the contemporary. Each scene has been carefully chosen and developed to highlight the actor’s craft, exploring what happens both on the surface and beneath it - the subtext, the silences, and the emotional truths that make live theatre so powerful. They invite you to sit back, lean in, and experience what happens between the lines.
Music: Lynn Thizzy
When: Friday, November 7th, at 9.30pm
Where: Sally Longs
More information here
Sally Longs Rock Bar are delighted to welcome the incredible Lynn Thizzy, Ireland’s Ultimate Thin Lizzy Tribute Band as they take to their stage this coming Friday. From “The Boys Are Back in Town” to “Jailbreak,” every note will transport you back to the height of rock’s golden era. With Philo-esque vocals, signature Lizzy guitar solos, and that unmistakable bass groove, this band does justice to Thin Lizzy’s legendary sound and stage presence. This is a free gig so be sure to get here early!
Comedy: Foil Arms & Hog
When: Friday + Saturday, November 7th & 8th, at 7pm
Where: Leisureland
More information here
Foil Arms and Hog are back in Galway this weekend with their brand new show, Skittish - a brilliant mix of skits, audience participation, and improvisation. With over a billion views online, you may know them from their viral videos, but it’s on stage where they truly shine. Loved by celebrity fans like Woody Harrelson, Emma Thompson, and Mr. Bean himself, Foil Arms and Hog have become one of the world’s most recognized sketch groups. Following sold-out performances at the London Palladium, New York Town Hall, and Sydney Opera House, this Irish trio is embarking on their biggest world tour yet, don’t miss it!
Art: Cocktails & Canvas
When: Sunday, November 9th, at 3pm
Where: Grace’s Drinking Club at The Skeff
More information here
Join The Skeff for their exclusive Cocktails & Canvas event where their resident local artist Fiona Watson will guide you through a fun and creative two-hour painting class, where you’ll produce your own masterpiece to take home! Perfect for a relaxed afternoon of creativity and socialising. Ticket price includes all painting supplies: paint, brushes, easels, palettes, and canvas, an apron to keep you tidy (but we recommend wearing clothes that don’t mind a little mess!), finger food to enjoy throughout the session, two cocktails to sip while you create and of course, your own self-produced artwork to take home.With limited spaces available, make sure you secure your spot today to avoid disappointment.
Family: Party Time Kids Show
When: Sunday, November 9th, at 3pm
Where: Lough Rea Hotel & Spa
More information here
Get ready for an afternoon of laughter, excitement, and family fun as the award-winning Party Time Kids Show comes to Lough Rea Hotel & Spa. With over 20 years of experience entertaining children and families across Ireland, this is one show not to be missed. Enjoy a fun-filled event featuring a magic show, mini disco, puppet circus, dancing, games, prizes, and more. It’s the perfect day out for families looking to create unforgettable memories. Adults go free, but tickets are already selling fast so get yours today!
Seasonal: Galway Christmas Market
When: From Friday November 7th
Where: Eyre Square
More information here
There will be tons of fantastic Christmas Markets popping up across Galway over the upcoming weeks and we simply can’t wait to see all of the goodies they have to offer. Making its return to the City of Tribes, the Galway Christmas Market on Eyre Square opens this Friday. Get ready to enjoy delicious treats, festive browsing, a spectacular 32m observation wheel and vintage amusements. And, of course we will see loads of other community-run Christmas markets taking place across the county, so be sure to follow along with new updates on our Facebook and Instagram pages so you never miss out.
Dining: Sunday Roasts
When: Sunday, November 9th, bookings from 1pm
Where: Blackrock Cottage, Salthill
More information here
This and every Sunday throughout the month of November, Blackrock Cottage are hosting Sunday roasts in their brand-new BBQ area. Join them in the newly-covered and heated space to enjoy an amazing roast of your choice. We joined them last weekend for their first seating and it was incredible. Take this as your sign to elevate your Sunday dinner and pay them a visit this weekend coming. Bookings can be made by calling 091 399-280, emailing enquiries@blackrockcottage.ie, or visiting their website re the above link.
Festival: Galway Science and Technology Festival
When: November 9th, from 10am
Where: University of Campus
More information here
Now in its 28th year, the Galway Science and Technology Festival returns on Sunday with a full day of interactive fun at the University of Galway. Meet the people behind groundbreaking research, take part in experiments, and discover how science shapes everyday life. It’s educational, inspiring, and ideal for curious minds of all ages. Get ready to immerse yourself in the world of science and engineering as you meet the brilliant minds behind groundbreaking innovations. Don't miss it!
Film: The Imaginary Voyage
When: Saturday, November 8th, at 8pm
Where: Silent Cinema, 60 Dominick Street Lower
More information here
The Imaginary Voyage is a hilarious French silent film from 1926, directed by René Clair, featuring Dolly Davis and Jean Boerlin. In a whimsical daydream, a timid clerk is guided by a fairy into an underground realm where individuals turn into animals and waxworks spring to life. Lucie, his office love interest, follows him, but a wicked fairy is determined to keep them apart. René Clair gained recognition due to the avant-garde nature of his early films, particularly the well-known Entr'acte, which he collaborated on with artists like dadaist Francis Picabia and Eric Satie. By the conclusion of the silent film era, Clair was revered as one of the cinema's greats, alongside Griffith, Chaplin, Pabst, and Eisenstein.
Nightlife: Take over the Dance Floor at Electric
When: All weekend long, doors from 10pm
Where: 36 Upper Abbeygate Street
More information here
Whether you’re chasing rooftop vibes at the Garden, diving into the underground energy of the Factory, or losing yourself on the Main Floor, Electric gives you three distinct dance floors, three unique atmospheres, and three chances to find your rhythm. Every weekend, the venue comes alive with a fresh lineup of DJs and artists, from international headliners to the very best in local talent. Taking place this Saturday from 1pm is KUKI, a 10 hour day party in the Garden, with 3 extended sets, an unannounced lineup, 10 hours of music, and no phones, come dressed to sweat as things are going to be lit! For more on this please see here. Electric’s official ticket partner, Uniphi, is the ultimate student life app. Discover top events, grab exclusive student offers, earn points, and scan in with ease. Available on the Apple Store and Google Play apps, download now and start earning while you party. We’ll see you on the dance floor.
The weekend guide is sponsored by The Skeff Bar & Kitchen, the home to live music 7 nights a week in Galway. Check out The Skeff's weekend lineup right HERE. Come along to the next exclusive Live Makeup Masterclass at Grace’s Drinking Club in The Skeff Bar & Kitchen, hosted by NARS on Wednesday 12th November at 7.30pm. It will be hosted by visiting NARS Senior Artist Eve Valos, supported by the amazing Galway team, as they guide you through a festive-inspired look to get you glowing ahead of the Christmas season Tickets are €50 (€45 redeemable against NARS products) and are extremely limited — don’t delay, book your spot today HERE!
Feature photo by Chaosheng Zhang.
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