What To Do In Galway This Weekend

Looking for things to do in Galway this weekend? We've got you covered! From live music and entertainment to the spring garden festival 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!

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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.

Ireland vs Italy -  Women’s Six Nations

When: Saturday, April 18th, kick-off at 5.40pm
Where: Dexcom Stadium
More information here 
Something incredibly exciting is taking place in the world of women’s rugby right here in Galway! This April, the newly renovated Home of Connacht Rugby – which officially opened in January – will play host to its first Guinness Women’s Six Nations match. Ireland Women’s only previous appearance in Galway was a 15-8 victory over Canada in April 2006. Tickets are now on sale for this historic event and you are not going to want to miss it!!

HystERia Productions presents Bar Wars

When: Thursday-Saturday, April 16-18th, doors at 7pm
Where: Electric Galway
More information here 
After a sold-out run of the one-act in February, Bar Wars by Malachy Duggan is back – and it’s bigger than before. The full-length Bar Wars is coming your way with over an hour of riotous laughs, chaotic bar stool drama and the kind of characters you hate to recognise from your local. If you thought the one-act was wild, just wait. The pigs are about to race all over again.. Imagine Shakespeare stuck in a pub with a pint in one hand and a vendetta in the other and you’ll get Bar Wars. A riotous, slapstick-fuelled comedy, it mercilessly mocks Shakespearean tropes while serving up outrageous antics, eccentric characters, and chaos that only a table in an Irish pub can deliver. Expect brawls, schemes, and absurd twists. Expect to laugh until it hurts. Bar Wars is gloriously daft, gloriously loud, and gloriously unmissable.

Martin Doyle in Conversation with Sarah Kenny

When: Thursday, April 16th, at 6pm
Where: Kennys Bookshop
More information here 
Journalist, writer and Books Editor of The Irish Times, Martin Doyle, will be at Kennys Bookshop this week to join Sarah Kenny in conversation about his new book; A Hosting: Interviews with Irish Writers 1991-2025. Martin has been an arts journalist for almost 35 years and in that time has interviewed many of the most talented and successful Irish writers at different stages of their careers. His new book presents a selection of his journalism offering a kaleidoscopic portrait of the Irish literary world as it has evolved in the past four decades. It provides booklovers with a privileged insight into the creative processes of many of their favourite writers, while serving as an appetiser for some of the greatest works of modern Irish fiction and nonfiction, both prizewinning titles and some overlooked gems which deserve to be rediscovered. Writers interviewed include: Sally Rooney, Claire Keegan, Roddy Doyle, Colm Tóibín, Claire Kilroy, Donal Ryan, Alice Taylor, and Paul Murray.

NT Live: All My Sons

When: Thursday, April 16th, at 7pm
Where: Eye Cinema
More information here
Bryan Cranston (Breaking Bad) and Marianne Jean-Baptiste (Hard Truths) feature in a five-star, triumphantly acclaimed new production of Arthur Miller’s classic play, from visionary director Ivo Van Hove (A View from the Bridge). One family, the heart of the American dream. When wartime delivers profits for Joe, it comes at a price when his partner is charged with criminal manufacturing deals, and his eldest son goes missing in action. Will peacetime bring peace of mind, or will he be confronted by the consequence of his actions?

A Galway Garden Soirée with Blonde Canvas Co

When: Saturday, April 18th, at 12pm
Where: The Connacht Hotel
More information here
This Saturday, a beautiful afternoon of creativity, blooms and brunch awaits you at The Avery in The Connacht Hotel. At this event you’re invited to unwind as you sip, paint and personalise your own flower pot, then take home seeds to plant and watch your creation flourish.  Whether you’re joining with friends or coming solo, this is the perfect mid-day escape to get creative, relax and enjoy something a little different! All materials provided, as well as coffee/tea and some pastries.

Sean-Nós with Dominic Mac Giolla Bhríde

When: Thursday, April 16th, 2.30-3.30pm
Where: Galway City Museum
More information here
Join  singer, multi-instrumentalist, composer, and teacher Dominic Mac Giolla Bhríde for a special talk and sean-nós performance on Thursday afternoon at the museum. Sean-nós is a traditional style of Irish singing, characterised by its unaccompanied, highly ornamented delivery. Dominic Mac Giolla Bhríde was awarded the prestigious Corn Uí Riada for sean-nós singing in 2009, and his book, Gealach na gCuanta (2025), explores the origins of sean-nós and its connections with the Gaelic harping tradition. He has toured widely throughout Ireland, Britain, and beyond, appearing at a range of venues and cultural festivals. This event is free of charge; however, places are limited and advance booking is strongly recommended. To book, contact the museum at Museum@GalwayCity.ie or (091) 532460.

Music: Weekend Entertainment at The Quays

When: Friday + Saturday, April 17th + 18th
Where: Quay Lane
More information here
The bands are lined up, the drinks are cold, and the nights are waiting. This weekend bring your pals out for the night to The Quays Bar and make some memories. Lined-up for the weekend ahead in the Music Hall they have: Peter Byrne and the Glass Onion Band on Friday and on Saturday Mike Denver takes to the stage for what is going to be an unforgettable show. They also have live music from 3.30pm daily in the bar, and great local food served all day, so make sure you call in.

Galway Musical Society presents Pippin

When: Running until Saturday, April 18th, start time at 8pm
Where: Town Hall Theatre
More information here 
Galway Musical Society returns to stage with Pippin, a dazzling musical that weaves together circus, magic and all that makes musical theatre so special! This show explores Pippin’s lifelong search to find the right path; all while being nudged by a not-so-trustworthy troupe of circus performers who may or may not have their own idea for his wicked ‘grand finale’. With music by Stephen Schwartz (Wicked, The Hunchback of Notre Dame, Godspell, The Prince of Egypt, Pocahontas) and originally directed and choreographed by Bob Fosse (Chicago, Sweet Charity, Cabaret), this production showcases what makes musical theatre so extraordinary: songs that soar and big dances full of energy and character!

Painting & Wine Tasting with Helen Fahey

When: Saturday, April 18th, 4-6pm
Where: The Wine Buff
More information here
Sip wine and unleash your creativity at a guided painting experience with artist Helen Fahey.  On Saturday evening, join the team at Wine Buff Galway and collaborate with Helen as you create your own masterpiece, in a creative space filled with laughter, art, and of course - wine! Don’t miss the chance to tap into your inner artist in a casual, friendly setting and secure your tickets asap.

Fundraiser Night in aid of Children’s Health Foundation

When: Saturday, April 18th, at 9pm
Where: Sally Longs
More information here
Sally Longs is hosting a night in support of Children’s Health Foundation this Saturday with live music from Infared, NOMATRIX, and Paranoia. This is gearing up to be a night of great tunes and great company in support for an incredible cause. Every ticket and donation will help make a real difference in the lives of the children they help and their families. So, if you’re looking for where to go on Saturday night, come along to Sallys, show your support, and enjoy a fantastic night out!

The Rosecaps

When: Friday, April 17th, at 8pm
Where: Róisín Dubh
More information here
A homegrown Galway-based indie band, The Rosecaps have sold out every headline show to date. Playing this Friday night in Róisín Dubh with support from Groev and Siobhan Kelleher. Their discography is as vast as it is varied, with the band proving time and time again that they can cross genres comfortably and at their own pace. Landing support slots for Amble, Kingfishr, Gavin James, The Academic, The Coronas and many more household names across Ireland, UK, and Europe, it’s no wonder they’ve been tipped by The Irish Times as the most promising up and coming Irish acts of late.

Pottery | Paint & Pour Night

When: Saturday, April 18th, at 7.30pm
Where: West of the River Gallery
More information here
If you want to tap into your creativity, the Pottery | Paint & Pour Night at West of the River Gallery should not be missed. Upon arrival enjoy a glass of bubbly along with some finger food. After picking out your blank ceramic, sit with your friends to paint, chat, and sip for the evening. The instructor will go through the ‘dos & don’ts’ of the painting process and are around if you need any other guidance. The price includes all paints, glazing, firing in the kiln and your pottery will be ready for collection in 8-10 days. Limited spaces available, so DM or email info@westoftherivergallery.ie to book your table for 2, 4 or 6 people.

Tour H91 Fitness with its Owner

When: Sunday, April 18th
Where: Bonham Quay, The Docks
More information here
If you’ve been thinking about joining a gym and the new H91 Fitness on The Docks has sparked your interest, you’ll want to be there on Sunday morning as they open their doors to something a bit different. Meet its owner John for a full gym tour with coffee, and have all your H91 Fitness questions answered by the person who knows it best. If you’ve been thinking about joining, this is your moment. DM at the link above to book in your slot.

Tattoo Your Tee - Earth Day with UpSew

When: Saturday, April 18th, at 10.30pm
Where: Galway City Museum
More information here
For children aged 8+ this family-friendly Tattoo Your Tee workshop is where parents or guardians can personalise clothing with a child, using simple embroidery. Felt pieces will also be provided for practice, so there is no need to stitch directly onto clothing straight away. Whether it’s a picture, word, or symbol, this hands‑on session offers a creative way to upcycle a t‑shirt or sweater. This free event forms part of Earth Day celebrations and is delivered by UpSew. All needles and threads will be supplied.  Spaces are limited to 14 participants (7 parent–child pairs).

The Lost Songs by John Conneely Inc

When: Saturday, April 18th, at 7.30pm
Where: The Mick Lally Theatre
More information here
The Mick Lally Theatre unveils The Lost Songs, born from the strangest of creative recoveries. The project began in 2017, when a full album of original songs being recorded by John Conneely Inc was encrypted by ransomware. Only in 2021, when decryption tools were finally released, could the material be recovered. Now The Lost Songs returns to the world as an immersive audio-visual performance that blends storytelling, sound, and audience participation to chart a journey through loss, vulnerability and resilience. Real‑time TouchDesigner visuals transform the stage into a reactive, living environment – mirroring the distortion, chaos, and eventual clarity of the music’s long road back. The second part of the night features an intimate live performance from the full band incorporating visuals from Conor Maloney (Funeral for Ashes).

Sign up for Reformer Pilates

When: Classes available across the weekend
Where: Soul Studio Pilates, Oranmore
More information here 
Looking for the perfect reset this weekend? Step into Soul Studio Pilates in the heart of Oranmore and discover a reformer Pilates experience designed to nurture both body and mind. With cosy vibes, tranquil energy, and effortlessly chic interiors, this state-of-the-art studio is as aesthetic as it is empowering. Whether you’re brand new to Pilates or ready for a more dynamic flow, Soul Studio’s expert instructors guide you through classes that build strength, improve flexibility and mobility, and encourage mindful movement. From beginner foundations to faster-paced sessions, every class meets you exactly where you are. They’ve also got a popular men’s only class if any curious but hesitant men out there.

The Magic Room

When: Friday, April 17th, at 7pm
Where: Johnny Walsh’s, Gort
More information here
This spring, The Magic Room returns to its spiritual home in Gort for another carefully curated weekender, part underground gathering, part ritual dancefloor. The journey begins, as always, at Woodquay, where attendees board the now-familiar Magic Bus before travelling west together. The intention is simple: arrive as one, step across the threshold, and leave the outside world behind. On the decks this edition are Nancy Wilde, BBBiLLLY and Kristy Harper. Expect high-quality sound, intentional curation, and the presence-first ethos The Magic Room has quietly become known for. And for those who wish to go deeper, the night doesn’t end at closing time. A strictly limited after-hours gathering awaits smaller, closer, held at a secret location disclosed only to wristband holders. Access is capped at bus capacity. No guest list extensions. No public drop-ins.

Japanese Film Festival 2026

When: Running until Saturday, April 18th
Where: Eye Cinema
More information here 
This week, the EYE Cinema Galway presents the ever-so-popular Japanese Film Festival in partnership with Access Cinema. This year, the exciting programme offers a curated mix of genres from new and classic anime titles (‘Akira’ and ‘ChaO’), new dramas (‘A Pale View of Hills’ and ‘How Dare You?’) and a very intriguing fantasy/horror title (‘Exit 8’). Hit the link above for all tickets.

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.

Feature photo by Chaosheng Zhang.