Looking for things to do in Galway this weekend? We've got you covered! With festivals galore bringing free fun to all ages, comedy nights, masterclasses, special dining experiences, 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 and Kitchen, the home to live music 7 nights a week in Galway. Check out The Skeff's weekend lineup right HERE. The next exclusive Live Makeup Masterclass at Grace’s Drinking Club in The Skeff Bar & Kitchen, will be hosted by MAC Cosmetics on Wednesday 8th October. Where the incredible MAC Pro Artist Ciara Fallon will guide you through a festive-inspired look to get you glowing ahead of the Christmas season. Tickets are €50 (€45 redeemable against MAC products) and are extremely limited — don’t delay, book your spot today HERE!
Festival: Architecture at the Edge
When: All weekend long (Running until October 12th)
Where: Galway City
More information here
Architecture at the Edge Festival is known for its inspired cultural experiences and this year is no different as the festival once again presents a compelling programme, offering exclusive building tours, and featuring film screenings, exhibitions, workshops, talks and much more. The topic of this year's Architecture at the Edge Festival is centred on the theme of the ‘Unseen’ Architecture. To make visible the often invisible factors that shape space. The 2025 will spotlight architecture that is inspired by or is part of our daily lives by presenting those imperceptible or insignificant little things that surround us, make up our vital environment and influence our way of life in a conscious or subconscious manner. For this year’s programme highlights please see here.
above: photo by Ste Murray from Architecture at the Edge
Showcase: Selfbuild Extend & Renovate
When: Saturday + Sunday, October 4+5th, from 10am
Where: Galway Racecourse
More information here
Selfbuild Extend & Renovate, Connacht is the ultimate showcase for people who are building, extending, improving or simply decorating their home. Visitors are presented with an abundance of ideas, inspiration and advice via 1-2-1 Clinics, theatre talks and hundreds of Irish based exhibitors. Connect with local suppliers, hear from industry pros, and explore practical solutions, all under one roof. Featuring: 85+ local exhibitors, 30+ expert speakers, advice theatre, a SelfBuild theatre, expert 1-2-1 advice, extension & renovation advice, and a build cost zone. Skip hours of online research and meet the experts face-to-face. You’ll leave with ideas, contacts, and clarity. Use code THISISGALWAY to book your free ticket now.
Entertainment: Funky Leg Live + Battle Jacket Workshop
When: Funky Leg - Friday Oct 3rd from 10pm // Workshop - Sunday Oct 5th at 2pm
Where: Sally Longs
More information here
This weekend is bringing a fun doubleheader to Sally Longs with Funky Leg providing the tunes for a late Friday night special and a fantastic Battle Jacket Workshop with artist Brigid Mulligan on Sunday afternoon. Funky Leg brings an eclectic mix of funk, soul and jazz to every set they play. Born out of a three-month dig in Galway, Funky Leg offers a one of a kind experience to dance, sing, laugh and get down. Follow the lead of the Funktastic Space Guide, Tobē Tobersons and bust a move with Funky Leg, Galway’s Legendary Funk Soul Band. Get ready for an incredible show, it is not something you’d want to miss. Two days later, (once the hangover has passed) Sally Longs is hosting a crafting workshop with artist Brigid Mulligan, and Des Harrington on the singer sewing machine. ‘Pimp up your Battle Jacket’ will allow you to print your own patch and sow it into your battle jacket (or let Des the master machinist sow it on for you). On the day they will be blasting a few tunes, having a few pints and of course, plenty of craic! Don’t forget to bring your jacket and any old denim that could be a patch. All other materials will be supplied.
Shop: The Market H91
When: Saturday, October 4th, from 11.30am
Where: Electric
More information here
To the vintage lovers, the preloved obsessives, and anyone who can’t bear to see good clothes go to waste - this one’s for YOU! The Market H91, an indoor vintage and pre-loved market featuring curated vintage and pre-loved clothes, homewares, flash tattoos, and vinyl LPs, all soundtracked by a live DJ. Set inside one of the city’s most iconic venues, The Market H91 flips the dance floor into a treasure trove of rails and record crates, spotlighting independent traders and circular style with a proper club atmosphere. Expect era-defining fashion, statement home pieces, rare pressings, and a soundtrack to match.
Drink: Hendrick’s Gin Tasting Event at Jekyll
When: Thursday, October 2nd, at 7.30pm
Where: HYDE Bar
More information here
Step into the curious world of Hendrick’s Gin at HYDE Bar with a bespoke tasting menu, each dish paired with tailor-made Hendrick’s Gin cocktails. From the signature notes of rose and cucumber to the brand’s delightfully peculiar botanicals, each pairing has been designed to surprise, delight, and celebrate the extraordinary character of Hendrick’s. Expect a night of indulgence, flavour, and a touch of whimsy as HYDE’s chefs and expert mixologists take you on a 4-course culinary journey that redefines the art of food and gin pairing. Spaces are limited, book your place asap.
Festival: Galway Cartoon Festival
When: From Friday, October 3rd running until the 8th
Where: Galway City
More information here
The 9th Galway Cartoon Festival has prepared a programme bursting with legendary comic book artists, leading contemporary cartoonists, talks, and workshops. This is promising to be the festival’s biggest and most ambitious event yet. Highlights include; Gilbert Shelton, creator of the Fabulous Furry Freak Brothers; 2000AD and Judge Dredd artist Brendan McCarthy, leading American political cartoonist Jeff Danzinger; and pioneering Northern Irish political cartoonist Ian Knox, will all be attending and exhibiting their work in Galway for the Festival, while Palestinian artist Malak Mattar will take up an artist residency at Áras Éanna, Inis Oírr. French cartoonists will be prominent at this year’s festival, with a welcome return for illustrator and graphic novelist Lucie Arnoux, who will host drawing workshops throughout the week; leading French cartoonists Camille Besse and Thibaut Soulcié will each give masterclasses on Press Cartoons at PorterShed a Dó; while Coralina Picos from Ca Presse Lyon will be among the speakers at the Festival. For more on this year’s festival see the above link.
CANCELLED: Youth Lates at Eastside Arts Festival
When: Friday, October 3rd, from 6pm
Where: Galway Community College, Wellpark
More information here
CANCELLED! Youth Lates have teamed up with Foroige’s Galway City Youth Café to bring you a very special evening of live music and dance! Get ready for a night of live performances showcasing some of Galway’s most talented young dancers, songwriters, musicians, and bands. Whether your taste leans towards indie, pop, rock, or something in between, this is your chance to connect, celebrate youth creativity. Acts include Redline, Copacetic, EDAN, Natalia, Ali & Antoni, Francis Ward, Dumebi, Pink Fever (dance performance), NoRules JustRhythm (dance performance). Youth Lates is part of the Galway City Council Night-Time Economy Action Plan, offering exciting and inclusive events for young people.
Comedy: Tigh He-He Comedy Club
When: Thursday, October 2nd, doors at 7.30pm
Where: Pálás Cinema
More information here
The countdown to Galway Comedy Festival 2025 is now on and if you want to get a taste of what’s coming in this year’s Galway Comedy Festival then this Tigh He-He Comedy Night is for you! With special guest Karl Spain, support from Rob Nother and this week’s host Adam Burke, this is going to be a night full of belly laughter and giggles. Karl Spain has long been established as one of Ireland’s most popular comedians, from his own tours and touring with others, and has appeared at festivals all over the world. Karl has worked with some of the world's greatest comedians (his peers ahem, cough). Karl has written for many comedians over the last decade or so, so you have been laughing at his jokes even when you didn't realise it. But he has kept all the best jokes for himself.
Beauty: Charlotte Tilbury + The Belle Brush Masterclass
When: Sunday, October 5th, at 1pm
Where: Electric
More information here
Get ready to immerse yourself in the world of beauty with the Charlotte Tilbury + The Belle Brush masterclass event! Join them at Electric Galway for an exclusive in-person experience filled with makeup tips, skincare secrets, and all things glam. Whether you’re a makeup enthusiast or just looking to enhance your beauty routine, this event is not to be missed!! Don’t miss out on this opportunity to learn from the best in the beauty industry. See you there! Ticket price is fully redeemable (€75 redeemable on Charlotte Tilbury products and €25 redeemable on The Belle Brush) and entry includes a goody bag and complimentary drink on arrival.
Nightlife: Last Orders
When: Saturday, October 4th, from 11.30pm
Where: Róisín Dubh
More information here
Join your DJ Evan Flash this and every Saturday for a late night dive into the best alternative music out there. Expect an eclectic mix of indie, rock, disco and dance music - showcasing the best from Irish and international acts. Free admission all night long. See you on the dance floor!
Live Music & Dance: Thursday Trad with Na Rinceoirí
When: Thursday, October 2nd, from 7pm
Where: MacNeill’s Pub, downstairs at The Hardiman
More information here
You're in for a very special treat at MacNeill's Pub’s Thursday Trad evening, as their usual trad session with Gonzalo & friends comes alive with the addition of Irish dancers from Na Rinceoirí. They’ll be performing every Thursday from 7pm, so get in early for a bite to eat, a pint and to get a good seat! Find MacNeill's Pub down the stairs beside The Hardiman in Eyre Square.
above: Photo by Darach Photography
Dining: A Vegan Delight
When: Saturday, October 4th, at 7pm
Where: Slieve Aughty Centre
More information here
Slieve Aughty Centre are delighted to invite you to A Vegan Delight – an evening of exceptional organic, plant-based food in the heart of nature. Enjoy a thoughtfully prepared organic set-course vegan meal, made with fresh, seasonal ingredients, this is a true treat for the senses. This Saturday immerse yourself in a warm, welcoming atmosphere with like-minded food lovers. This event is perfect for couples, friends, or anyone who appreciates slow, organic food.
Music: Anna’s Anchor
When: Friday, October 3rd, at 8pm
Where: De Burgo’s
More information here
Anna’s Anchor doing a very special stripped back set with Claire O’Brien on piano, on Friday in De Burgo’s. With three shows planned in Dublin, Limerick and Galway, the shows are intentionally being kept small with only 50 available tickets. As Marty puts it himself ‘While these shows will be really small, Clare and I have a really special set planned for it, old songs, some reworked favourites and a few covers you’ve never heard before from us. We’d love to see you there’. Anna’s Anchor is the musical project of Limerick born musician Marty Ryan. Once a solo affair, this ever-evolving musical project now resembles a collaborative community of musicians pushing the envelope of Indie Rock. Since the project’s inception in 2014, Ryan has amassed a loyal audience from playing over 400 shows all around the world in a DIY fashion. Having made appearances at festivals such as Other Voices, CGIF, 2000 Trees and playing in front of 20,000 Limerick fans at the homecoming of the 2023 All Ireland Winners, there is no signs of slowing down for Anna’s Anchor.
Family: Dinosaur Show Live
When: Sunday, October 5th, at 4pm
Where: Lough Rea Hotel & Spa
More information here
This fun, family-friendly show with some of the most realistic dinosaurs you will ever see anywhere in the world. This amazing 1hr show showcases the latest animatronic technology and award-winning puppetry. The show centres around a magical professor who takes you back in time ...65 million years to be precise. Meet Archie the cheeky Anklysaurus, Bluey the fun but dark Velociraptor and many many more including a full size Triceratops. This is a show not to be missed, in fact with so many photo opportunities at the end this is a show to be captured.
Café Lates: Shake The Dust
When: Thursday, October 2nd, at 7pm
Where: 56 Central
More information here
Step into a different kind of night out with 56 Central. Shake The Dust is more than just a workout, it’s your mid-week release without the hangover. A movement session where you can shake off stress, recharge your energy, and reconnect with your body, heart, and mind. Come move, sweat, and shake it all off, then stay for a soft drink and a nibble after. Expect a dynamic mix of shaking, jumping, dancing, and intuitive movement, blended with elements of yoga, Pilates, somatics, and bodyweight training. Every class is powered by a carefully curated playlist designed to move you as much as your body. Whether you’re a yogi looking to break out of your usual flow or you’re just craving a cathartic release, a good sweat, and a stronger, more resilient body, this is your space to shake it all out and come alive. For this event 56 Central’s Gill Carroll will be joined by DJ Benoit to create a complete body, mind, and heart experience.
Dining: Steak Night Fridays
When: Friday, October 3rd, from 5pm
Where: Nox Hotel
More information here
Steak Night Friday is back at the Nox Hotel. Taking place this and every Friday, choose your steak (rib eye, venison, t-bone, dry aged sirloin steak on the bone, or tomahawk for sharing), and choose your spud and sauce (baked potato, beef dripping chips, mash, black barrel pepper sauce, chimichurri, garlic butter). And enjoy a complimentary pint of Moretti or a glass of wine with your steak! All steaks are served with crispy onion rings, tenderstem broccoli, and glazed carrots. Steak Night is perfect for kicking off the weekend the right way, so get booked in today and enjoy a night of delicious dining. For all enquiries please call them at 091 73 55 55.
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. 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 and Kitchen, the home to live music 7 nights a week in Galway. Check out The Skeff's weekend lineup right HERE. The next exclusive Live Makeup Masterclass at Grace’s Drinking Club in The Skeff Bar & Kitchen, will be hosted by MAC Cosmetics on Wednesday 8th October. Where the incredible MAC Pro Artist Ciara Fallon will guide you through a festive-inspired look to get you glowing ahead of the Christmas season. Tickets are €50 (€45 redeemable against MAC products) and are extremely limited — don’t delay, book your spot today HERE!
Feature photo by Chaosheng Zhang.
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