Looking for things to do in Galway this weekend? We've got you covered! With Galway's biggest festival, live music, a singles party, and family-friendly things to do, 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!
Get ready to stand out from the crowd at The Skeff Bar this Race Week for the Best Dressed Lady competition on Ladies Day, hosted by the fabulous Ally McGinn (@allymcginnmakeup)! Join them for a chance to win incredible prizes including a €500 Brown Thomas shopping spree with champagne, a €150 Brown Thomas voucher, or a delicious dinner and drinks for two. Judging runs from 5:30pm to 7:30pm, so mark your calendars and bring your style A-game! Plus, don’t miss out on The Skeff, the ultimate home of live music during Race Week 2025, their full lineup has just been announced HERE.
Festival: Mogwai & Afterparty
When: Thursday July 24th, at 7pm (afterparty from 11pm)
Where: Heineken Big Top & Afterparty in Róisín Dubh
More information here
Galway International Arts Festival and Róisín Dubh proudly present Mogwai live at the Heineken Big Top, followed by an unforgettable afterparty at Róisín Dubh. Formed in Glasgow in 1995, Mogwai, featuring Stuart Braithwaite (guitar, vocals), Barry Burns (guitar, piano, synths, vocals), Dominic Aitchison (bass), and Martin Bulloch (drums), have carved out a legendary place in post-rock history. With ten studio albums to their name, their most recent release, As The Love Continues (2021), topped the Official UK Album Charts, received a Mercury Prize nomination, and won Scottish Album of the Year. The band’s cinematic sound has also featured in acclaimed scores for Amazon Prime and Apple TV+ projects. Post-show, cap off the night at the Róisín Dubh, where the renowned Strange Brew club night returns for one night only. Curated by Gugai, the afterparty promises an electrifying mix of indie, alt-rock, and genre-defying sounds from yesterday, today, and tomorrow. Don't miss this iconic night of music and celebration.
Festival: Galway International Arts Festival
When: Running until Sunday July 27th
Where: Galway City
More information here
So far Galway International Arts Festival has already welcomed thousands of visitors to the city for an incredible celebration that showcases everything from theatre and visual arts to circus and music. While many of the remaining shows are sold out, there are still some tickets left so stop delaying getting your tickets and secure your place at GIAF today! This weekend will feature talks such as Sea Swimming and COPE @ 60, Music from Shark School, Oisín Leech, and A Lazarus Soul. And, while the Big Top performances are almost sold out, the Festival Club at Galway Rowing Club is open from 8pm each night bringing you sweet tunes and killer views. The free art galleries will be open all weekend long as well so rest assured you will have plenty of opportunities to see some incredible exhibitions before they are gone! Hit the link above to see it in full and to get your tickets.
Festival: WTAF!? (Westend Theatre & Arts Festival)
When: All weekend long
Where: Galway’s Westend
More information here
For something delightfully offbeat, check out Galway’s newest fringe festival, WTAF!? (Westend Theatre & Arts Festival). This is a bold, alternative arts festival in Galway’s Westend which celebrates the arts in non-traditional spaces. It’s all about theatre, music, art, circus, comedy, craic and mayhem. Think drag, visual arts, and surreal live entertainment. Leave your expectations at the door. See the link above for the full festival programme.
Music: Féasta Ceoil an Spidéil ‘25 with John Spillane and Inni-K
When: Thursday & Friday, July 24th & 25th, at 8pm
Where: Stiúideo Cuan, Spiddal
More information here
Féasta Ceoil an Spidéil ‘25, taking place at the beautifully intimate venue that is Stiúideo Cuan, encompasses eight concerts throughout July. This week the legendary John Spillane will take the stage in Stiúideo Cuan on Thursday, in what promises to be a magical evening. This event is now sold out. Singer, multi-instrumentalist & composer Inni-K will showcase work from her new album on Friday night. Tickets can be purchased at www.stiuideocuan.ie or via Eventbrite. Due to limited capacity, early booking is advised to experience these wonderful concerts in one of Ireland’s most intimate music rooms.
above: photo from a recent Stiúideo Cuan event by Ado Lyons
Health: Irish Cancer Society’s Your Health Matters Roadshow
When: Wednesday & Thursday, July 23rd & 24th, from 9am
Where: Galway Shopping Centre, Headford Road
More information here
This week, the Irish Cancer Society’s ‘Your Health Matters’ Roadshow will be in Galway Shopping Centre on Headford Road from 9am to 6pm. You are all invited to come along for free to speak with specialist cancer nurses to ask any questions they may have and seek support and advice. Pop down and have a chat with one of their nurses, no booking is required, just walk in. Available at the Roadshow are free blood pressure checks, body mass index (BMI) and carbon monoxide (CO) readings and information on cancer prevention, screening, and ways to help spot the early signs of cancer. A referral for a GP can also be arranged where further help is required. The ‘Your Health Matters’ Roadshow initiative seeks to change this by promoting positive lifestyle changes, increasing awareness of cancer symptoms, and improving medical care-seeking behaviour for the early signs of cancer.
Special Occasion: World Tequila Day Party with Don Julio x O’Connell’s
When: Thursday, July 24th, from 5pm
Where: O’Connell’s Bar & Beer Garden
More information here
Tequila & tunes on a Thursday? Sign us up! To celebrate World Tequila Day, Don Julio & O'Connell's have teamed up to throw the fiesta of all fiestas. Join them from 5pm for some tasty tequila specials, pizza from the lads at The Dough Bros, plenty of cool photo backdrops so you can get that perfect Insta story, and a guest DJ will be setting the vibe with some epic tunes. All welcome so gather your amigos for the ultimate tequila party!
Shop: Galway Indoor Market
When: Saturday July 26th, from 11am
Where: The Cornstore
More information here
Outset Design is delighted to welcome you back to the Cornstore on Saturday for a diverse range of stalls that showcase the best of vintage, retro, second hand & hand made from independent businesses and creative individuals from Galway & beyond. Hit the link above for a little taste of some of the fantastic vendors & music who will be there on the day.
Launch: New Guest Roaster at Plámás
When: Sunday July 27th, at 5.30pm
Where: Plámás
More information here
Plámás are welcoming their new guest roasters Established Coffee to their shop with a special launch event. This Sunday evening they will be hosting a coffee cupping with the Established team and joining them for the event is Gabrielė Kižytė, Irish Cup Tasters Champion and 24th in the world! She’ll walk you through the coffee tasting step by step. This is for both beginners and those who are looking to advance what they already know. Unlike their usual cuppings, this one will also serve as a tasting workshop. It’s a free event but there will be a limited capacity so be sure to get in early!
Beauty: BT Galway x HYDE - Beauty, Bubbles & Fine Dining
When: Thursday July 24th, at 5.30pm
Where: HYDE Bar
Tickets available here
Treat yourself to a summer evening of indulgence and glamour with BT Galway x HYDE, an exclusive event combining beauty, bubbles, and elegant dining. Your evening begins at 5:30pm in the luxurious surrounds of Brown Thomas Galway, where you’ll enjoy a refreshing drinks & canapé reception to set the tone. Then it’s time to unlock your ultimate glow with a Charlotte Tilbury “Unreal Summer” Masterclass; discover how to perfect your radiant summer look with tips from the pros. Plus, you’ll receive a €35 redeemable credit to spend at the Charlotte Tilbury counter and a fabulous goodie bag with your purchase. At 7:30pm, you and your friends will take a short stroll to the stylish HYDE Bar, where a welcome summer spritz awaits, followed by a delicious two-course dinner in Galway’s chicest city-centre venue. It’s the perfect summer night out! A blend of luxury beauty and elevated dining, made for sharing with friends.
Activity: Unleash your Wild Side at Wildlands
When: Book a day/time that suits you!
Where: Moycullen
More information here
Surrounded by nature, Wildlands is more than just an activity centre, it’s an adventure haven for all ages! Little explorers (ages 3 to 8 years) will adore Baile Beag, a charming mini-village that’s been designed just for them, complete with a dedicated play area for the tiniest tots too. Meanwhile, thrill-seekers of older ages can dive into an exhilarating lineup of activities, from scaling fun walls to testing their aim in archery, or soaring through the skies on Zip ‘n’ Trek. Wildlands also offers a ton of water-based activities for the summer season. For those who love some friendly competition, friendly challenges await in the Ninja Course or Challenge Rooms, where teamwork meets adrenaline. And, if you’re not ready to say goodbye to the fun? You can opt to stay the night in one of their cosy wooden cabins, where nature meets comfort.
Singles Night: Back to the 80’s - Singles Party (over 35s)
When: Saturday July 26th, at 8.30pm
Where: Busker Brownes
Tickets available here
Dust off your leg warmers and tease up your hair for a blast from the past. This event is exclusively for singles over 35 who want to relive the glory days of the 80s. Get ready to dance to all your favourite hits from the era and maybe even meet someone special. Don’t miss out on this totally tubular party! Expect a lively atmosphere filled with delicious finger food and ice-breaker games designed to help you connect with like-minded singles, all set to a backdrop of great 80’s music to keep the energy high. There is no dress code but we would love to see you dig out those old denims and leg warmers. Spot prizes for best 80’s dress on the night.
Dining: Platters & Pinchos - Live The Lane Experience
When: At a day/time that suits you
Where: 3 Kirwan’s Lane, Galway city
Book your table here
Creamy cheeses, selected cured meats, smoked fish, and colourful vegan flavours ,there’s always something special to savour on the menu at The Lane Wine Bar. Whether you’re with friends or simply treating yourself, they’ve got the perfect board for the occasion. Choose your favourite combination, pair it with a great glass of wine, and enjoy every single bite. Boards include; Cheesus from Heaven (cheese platter), The Happy Pig (charcuterie platter), All Shook Up (cheese & charcuterie platter), Whale of a Time (fish platter), and Vegan From Head Tomatoes (vegan platter). These platters come in sizes small, medium and large so suit whichever option best suits you. So, why not make this weekend extra special and reserve your table at The Lane today for a phenomenal wine and cheese evening.
Film: Superman
When: Screenings available across the weekend
Where: Eye Cinema
Tickets available here
“Superman,” DC Studios’ first feature film to hit the big screen, has soared into theaters in Galway from Warner Bros. Pictures. In his signature style, James Gunn takes on the original superhero in the newly imagined DC universe with a singular blend of epic action, humour and heart, delivering a Superman who’s driven by compassion and an inherent belief in the goodness of humankind. If you haven’t seen it yet, take this as your sign to and bring your friends along for a super time.
Get ready to stand out from the crowd at The Skeff Bar this Race Week for the Best Dressed Lady competition on Ladies Day, hosted by the fabulous Ally McGinn (@allymcginnmakeup)! Join them for a chance to win incredible prizes including a €500 Brown Thomas shopping spree with champagne, a €150 Brown Thomas voucher, or a delicious dinner and drinks for two. Judging runs from 5:30pm to 7:30pm, so mark your calendars and bring your style A-game! Plus, don’t miss out on The Skeff, the ultimate home of live music during Race Week 2025, their full lineup has just been announced HERE.
Feature photo by Chaosheng Zhang.
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