Looking for things to do in Galway this weekend? We've got you covered! From Halloween parties to theatrical shows, live entertainment to family-friendly events, there really is something happening to suit everybody in Galway this weekend. Check out our ultimate guide to the best events happening in Galway this Halloween weekend and start planning your perfect getaway!
Opening Weekend for The Planet
Where: 5 Terryland Shopping Centre, Headford Road
More information here
Looking for something different to do in Galway this weekend? Well, we have fantastic news for you! It’s been a long time coming but renovations are finally complete and this Halloween weekend, The Planet is reopening its doors. A new and improved spot for fun, games and a bit of friendly competition. Whether you’re challenging your friends to a game of bowling, testing your aim at darts, testing your skills at the shuffleboard or diving into the arcade games, there’s something to keep everyone entertained. So, gather your gang, bring your competitive side and get ready to check out one of Galway’s newest destinations for a fun-filled weekend. Rainy day blues begone!
A Gathering of Souls: Samhain Procession in Galway City
When: Sunday, November 1st, from 6pm
Where: Galway City Street
More information here
Though separated by thousands of kilometres, Samhain, All Souls’ Day and Día de Muertos share a remarkable belief: that there are moments in the year when the connection between the living and those who have passed becomes especially meaningful. These traditions are not centred on fear. They are centred on remembrance. They remind us that those who came before us continue to shape who we are, and that memory, love and community transcend time. Rather than presenting one tradition alongside another, A Gathering of Souls creates a respectful cultural conversation between them. Drawing on the rich heritage of both Ireland and Mexico, the event brings together music, symbolism, storytelling, Mexican colour and tradition, and collective remembrance in a public experience. For one evening, the streets of Galway become a place where two ancient traditions walk side by side from Ireland’s ancient Samhain heritage to Mexico’s vibrant Día de Muertos celebrating memory, community and our enduring connection to those who came before us.
above: photo by Joseph Padfield
Halloween Family Workshop: Traditional Halloween Masks
When: Friday, October 30th, at 11am
Where: Galway City Museum
More information here
Halloween was traditionally regarded as the night when the boundaries between this world and the Otherworld grew thin – a night where fairies, ghosts and the dead roamed about freely. In the past, the fear of encountering an otherworldly being led people, mostly adults, to disguise themselves for protection. These ‘guisers’ darkened their faces with soot or wore homemade masks and costumes, and changed their voices to conceal their true identity. Join Brendan McGowan, Museum Education Officer, as he explores the Halloween tradition of ‘guising’. Afterwards, create your own traditional Halloween mask from recycled materials with artist and art educator Vicky Smith. All materials are provided, but feel free to bring along your own scraps of fabric or other suitable materials. Admission is FREE, but early booking is advised as places are limited. For bookings, please email Museum@GalwayCity.ie or call (091) 532460. This event is suitable for children aged 8–12. Please specify your child’s age when booking.
Get your Halloween Outfit at Planet Retro’s Halloween Shop
Where: Unit 120 in Eyre Square Shopping Centre
More information here
Costume lovers, this one’s for you! Find your frightful fit at Planet Retro’s Halloween Shop, then enter one of the many costume competitions taking place at Halloween Parties around for a chance to win some spooktacular prizes. This year, forget boring costumes and browse through rails upon rails of outfits and accessories at Planet Retro. Whether you’re costume hunting for your children, sorting costumes for a whole group of trick-or-treaters, or just looking for something wild for yourself, you’ll find everything you need waiting here. Thanks to their kilo pricing, you can mix and match to your heart’s content; think zombified hippies, alien cheerleaders, or vampire firemen. There’s no limits! Once you're donned in your Halloween finest tap here to check out what Halloween parties you need to be haunting this year.
above: photo by Ciarán MacChoncarraige
Coldvember
When: Starting Sunday November 1st
Where: Blackrock Diving Tower, Salthill
More information here
Coldvember is an annual, student-led initiative where they take a FREEZING but invigorating dip in the sea at Blackrock Diving Tower in Salthill every morning throughout November. The goal is to raise awareness of the mental and physical health benefits of cold-water swimming, kickstart the day with energy and positivity, build an open and inclusive community, and most importantly, raise funds for an incredible cause! Their charity of choice this year is Oranmore Maree Coastal Search Unit, a voluntary group established to assist in the search for missing persons in local coastal areas of Galway Bay. Last year, Coldvember brought hundreds of people together and raised over €20,000. This year, they’re aiming even higher, so get down and support them throughout the month of November! If swimming isn't your thing, they'll host a fundraiser gig, Codlchella on November 4th in the Róisín Dubh and their annual quiz will take place on the 16th in Massimo's!
Halloween Bake Sale in aid of Claddagh Watch
When: Friday, October 30th, 11am - 1pm
Where: Clybaun Hotel
More information here
Call on over to Knocknacarra this Friday morning for a Halloween Bake Sale in the Clybaun Hotel. The bake sale will take place from 11am until 1pm with all funds raised going to support the Claddagh Watch Patrol in Galway City. Treat yourself to something sweet and support a fantastic local cause. Bring your friends, family and community spirit along and enjoy coffee & cakes in the Clybaun Hotel to support the Claddagh Watch Patrol. They look forward to seeing you there!
Merces x Limited Coffee Co present ‘The Halloween Homecoming’
When: Saturday, October 31st, at 9.30am
Where: Limited Coffee Co
More information here
Come along this Saturday morning as Merces, the Irish rewards-based running and walking app, officially launches in Galway! Founded by Oranmore native Paul O’Donnell, Merces has already attracted over 4,000 downloads, signed landmark deals with some of the world’s biggest brands, reached the Top 20 in the App Store’s Health & Fitness category and featured in the Irish Independent. Now it’s time to bring the movement home! They’re kicking things off with a fun, social 5K through Galway City, bringing together runners, walkers, local businesses and the Galway community.
Café Lates - Freshly Brewed #3
When: Thursday, October 29th, at 6pm
Where: Little Lane Coffee Company
More information here
Join Little Lane Coffee Co for a spooky edition of Freshly Brewed, part of the Café Lates programme down in Bonham Quay. The Freshly Brewed series features short sets from musicians, poets, comedians, storytellers and theatre makers, highlighting the range of talent Galway has to offer, paired with some good vibes and a signature special offered by their own Jen O’Sullivan. Freshly Brewed #3 will feature scarily funny comedy from Sorcha de Faoite, a few choice words from poet and storyteller Mars Duignan, theatre magic from Rena Bryson, and killer music from indie band Sakura. This Thursday evening there will be all this and some games and wicked prizes for best costume, so make sure you don’t miss it!
Samhain Evening
When: Friday, October 30th, at 7.30pm
Where: Brigit’s Garden
More information here
Samhain is one of the great turning points of the Celtic year, marking the end of the cycle and the shift into the darker months of winter. It is a liminal time when the veil between this world and the otherworld is said to be thin, and a time for deep connection with the land and the ancestors. You are warmly invited to Brigit’s Garden for a special gathering to mark the old Celtic festival of Samhain – a candlelit evening, mainly indoors with time around a fire outdoors if the weather is kind. Brigit’s Garden will share stories and songs of Samhain and relax with a meditation and drumming around the fire. After the main session there will be a cuppa and an informal gathering around the fire to share songs, poems and stories (please bring something if you wish).
Connacht vs Leinster
When: Friday, October 30th, at 7.45pm
Where: Dexcom Stadium
More information here
Get ready for thrilling showdowns at Dexcom Stadium this weekend as Connacht Rugby go head-to-head with Leinster for their first Interpro of the season. Match tickets are close to selling out, with only terrace tickets remaining in the College Road and Bohermore Terrace ends. Get your tickets asap! For fans gathering for the pre-match buzz, the Guinness Fan Zone at O’Connell’s Bar on Eyre Square is the place to be. Featuring a stoutie machine, giveaways, pizza & pint deals and so much more - you don’t want to miss it! Alternatively, enjoy a stress-free and delicious start to match day with the match-day offering from The g Hotel & Spa. The g Hotel & Spa is inviting supporters to park for free, enjoy food and drinks with friends, and then take the short walk to the match without the usual game-day parking hassle. The hotel’s Sharing Collection offers the perfect way for fans to gather and enjoy some delicious food before kick-off. The collection is available all day on Connacht Rugby match days, with a selection of Irish artisan cheeses, charcuterie and seafood to choose from. For more information on those please see here.
Umbrella le Chéile
When: Saturday, October 31st, 11.30am - 5pm
Where: Electric Galway
More information here
Taking place on the last Saturday of every month, Umbrella le Chéile is all about a proper community vibe right in the heart of Galway City. If you haven’t been yet, this is your sign and if you have, you already know! Umbrella Le Chéile is a community-driven initiative based in Galway that brings people together through creativity, connection, and local enterprise. The monthly market showcases independent makers, artists, food vendors, and small businesses in an inclusive and welcoming atmosphere that celebrates local talent and community spirit. Make sure to pop in before the big Halloween bash and check it out!
Maurice Lennon Trio
When: Saturday, October 31st, at 2pm
Where: Tig Cóilí
More information here
Coming to Tig Cóilí this Halloween is the brilliant musical trio Maurice Lennon, Ciara Brennan, and Chris Dawson. Three exceptional musicians, operating in perfect symbiosis, during a performance they combine their talents to create a sound that is both innovative and steeped in tradition. Together, they are a powerful musical partnership and are making waves in the Irish traditional music world. Ciara’s instrumental playing and haunting vocals complement Maurice’s virtuosic fiddle playing, while Chris’s rhythm and intricate arrangements on multiple instruments add depth and texture to the music. Not to be missed, make sure you call in for this free Saturday show!
Galway Comedy Festival presents The Dirty Circus: Halloween Extravaganza
When: Friday, October 30th, doors at 8pm
Where: Pálás Cinema, Screen 1
More information here
Step right up, if you dare. The Dirty Circus are fresh from another iconic appearance at Electric Picnic to take the helm of Galway’s saucy Halloween celebrations, as part of Gaillimh Ah-Boo! 2026. This Friday night, enter a twisted world of wicked performers, dark seduction, burlesque stars, drag queens, pole devils & much more. The lights are low. The music is sinful. And the night is just getting started. Leave your good behaviour at the door and prepare for a night of chaos, temptation and twisted fun.
Paint & Prosecco
When: Saturday, October 31st, 1-2.30pm
Where: Queen Street
More information here
This Halloween Paint & Prosecco is returning to Queen Street Galway and you know what that means! It’s time to round up your pals and enjoy an afternoon of guided painting and bubbles to brighten up the rainy afternoon. Included in ticket price is all the art equipment you’ll need, such as; apron, easel, paints, paintbrushes plus a canvas that you get to take home with you! Enjoy step-by-step instruction from a local artist as well as two glasses of prosecco (or a non-alcoholic drink) as you create your masterpiece.
Galway Samhain Céilí - The Faerie Ball (Beginner Friendly)
When: Saturday, October 31st, at 7pm
Where: St Patrick’s Band Society
More information here
Join Galway Céilí Club for an evening of magic, delights, and dancing at St Patrick’s Band hall on Halloween night as the veil between worlds is lifted and you find yourself invited to the Faerie Ball. Learn the basics of Set Dancing & Céilí with a workshop starting at 7pm. Afterward, put your new skills to the test at the Céilí. All manner of faefolk, fauns, woodland elfs, bog monsters, and creatures of the night are welcome here but remember you’ve been invited to a ball so dress accordingly (especially as there’s a prize for best dressed!) They will be serving Barm Brack at the break along with other traditional treats and your fae hosts may even challenge you with games of skill and wit! No experience necessary – all levels are welcome! The dances will be demonstrated and called. Grab your friends, bring your two left feet, and come down for a night of Irish social dancing and the mightiest of craic.
Sunflower Sessions’ Halloween Spooktacular
When: Friday, October 30th, at 7.30pm
Where: Áras na nGael
More information here
This Friday night, get thee to Áras na nGael for a spooktacular Halloween party fundraiser with Sunflower Sessions. There will be fun and spooky costumes galore as well as live music from some of Galway’s best artists; 100 Cement, Copernicus II, Sakura and more. There will also be some killer prizes for the spookiest (or funniest!) costumes and plenty of Halloween magic, all in support of BodyWhys. Sunflower Sessions are part of the Sunflower Project, bringing the community together to fight the stigma around eating disorders and raise awareness. All proceeds go towards supporting people affected by eating disorders.
Halloween Paint N’ Sip
When: Friday, October 30th, at 7pm
Where: WYLDE
More information here
Paint, sip and get spooky at WYLDE this Halloween Eve and enjoy a guided art class, 2 Proseccos/Noseccos, Halloween bops and plenty of fun! All art equipment and materials you need to create your masterpiece are provided and your time painting will be broken up with fun Halloween games and activities throughout the event. Whether you’re a seasoned artist or haven’t picked up a paintbrush since school, this is all about having fun, getting creative and enjoying a spooky night out with friends. Come for the painting, stay for the Prosecco, and leave with your very own Halloween masterpiece!
Dog Fur-iendly Howl-O-Ween Paw-ty
When: Saturday, October 31st, 1-4pm
Where: Donnelly’s of Barna
More information here
Everyone’s favourite Dog Fur-iendly Howl-O-Ween Paw-ty is creepin’ over to Donnelly’s of Barna this Halloween and it’s all to raise funds for Madra Dog Rescue. Your €10 entry into the event includes spooktacular dog-friendly treats, an eerie-sistible photobooth and your chance to snap the perfect family pawtrait, a Howl-O-Ween bandana and toy for the first 50 in the door, entry into the raffle for your chance to win the ultimate Halloween hamper and much much more!
Growler + Áine Tyrell present Daughters of the Cailleach
When: Saturday, October 31st, at 8pm
Where: The Mick Lally Theatre
More information here
Growler and Áine Tyrrell have admired each other’s work from afar for years, trading wisdoms and encouragement from the hedges. Rumblings of difficult Irish women, echoing from every corner of the world. Both daughters of the Caillieach, who emigrated to find their strength of voice, now return, iconically to unite in Galway for a Samhain special. Two fierce voices in an Irish performance, called together for one night. Come be part of this ignition. Join their Samhain circle, song and performance art, side by side. Expect ancestral voices, Irish feminine reclaimed, vulnerability and strength in the same breath. Expect the unexpected from these two mná, in a collaboration that invites ye around the fire at this threshold, together.
Enjoy Kirby’s - Dine Out for Less this Bank Holiday Weekend
When: This offer is available Sunday to Friday (inclusive)
Where: Kirby’s at Busker Brownes
More information here
Enjoy a delicious dining experience at Kirby’s at Busker Brownes with their fantastic Enjoy Kirby’s offer! Savour two courses from the à la carte menu for just €28 or three courses for €33 when you quote “Enjoy Kirby’s.” Available Sunday to Friday, this great-value offer is also perfect for graduation celebrations and group bookings. To find out more or make a reservation, email events@buskerbrownes.com, visit kirbys.ie or call (091) 569 404.
The Cellar Session
When: Friday, October 30th, from 9pm
Where: The Cellar Bar
More information here
A highlight of The Cellar Bar’s weekly line-up, traditional Irish music takes centre stage every Friday from 9pm until late. Expect lively open sessions, talented guest musicians and a warm, welcoming atmosphere that captures the very best of Galway’s trad scene. Whether you’re settling in for a pint, joining in the craic or simply soaking up the sounds, it’s the perfect way to spend a Friday night. Don’t miss it!
Visit the Galway Pumpkin Patch
When: Open until end of day, Saturday, October 31st
Where: Castletaylor Estate, Ardrahan, H91CX3W
More information here
This Halloween bring your family out for a wholesome day at Galway Pumpkin Patch, where you can pick your perfect pumpkin, take loads of photos and carve your masterpiece in time for Halloween night. A memorable day for both the young and the young at heart, this pumpkin patch experience includes pumpkins (of course!), meeting some friendly farm animals, visiting the spectacular pumpkin house, taking part in family-friendly carnival games, and a toddler’s playground. Friday and Saturday are both dog-friendly days so feel free to bring along all members of the family for a wholesome autumnal day out.
Howl-O-Ween Festival 2026
When: Running until end of Sunday, November 1st
Where: Slieve Aughty Centre
More information here
Get ready for a fang-tastic Halloween celebration at Slieve Aughty Centre with exciting activities for children of all ages! Featuring: new themed scary rooms where children will get a sneak peek through a curtain into spine-chilling scenes that are sure to set their imaginations ablaze! Scary face painting that’ll transform your child into your favourite Halloween character. Cosy fireside fun. Self-guided nature walks with spooky surprises. Pony game rides such as balancing an eyeball on a spoon and conquering other quirky challenges in a thrilling 10-minute adventure. In addition to all this there will be delicious treats in the café, where they will be serving up a scrumptious menu of lunch specials, steaming coffees, and rich hot chocolates to warm your belly.
Time by Luxuralis
When: Running until Saturday, October 31st
Where: St Nicholas Collegiate Church
More information here
Internationally acclaimed pioneers of immersive light and sound Luxmuralis bring their spectacular installation Time to St Nicholas’ Collegiate Church this autumn as the flagship event of the Gaillimh Ah-Boo! programme. Transforming the interior of one of Ireland’s most historic churches through monumental projection art, original music and immersive storytelling, Time promises an unforgettable journey through history, science, art and imagination. Inspired by Einstein’s theories of relativity and H.G. Wells’ The Time Machine, visitors will be immersed amongst swirling galaxies and wormholes, venture inside the intricate workings of clocks, witness humanity through different eras and ultimately travel back to the very beginning of our universe. The experience culminates in a breathtaking finale beneath the soaring medieval roof of St Nicholas’ Collegiate Church, where architecture, music and light combine in an awe-inspiring celebration of creation, discovery and the passage of time. Some tickets are still available so be sure to get yours asap!
Bubbly Jazz Brunch
When: Sunday, November 1st, at 12pm
Where: The Orangery, Salthill Hotel
More information here
Enjoy live jazz, chilled prosecco and a long Sunday brunch under the glass roof of the Orangery at Salthill Hotel, a few steps from Salthill Prom. Included in the ticket price is two glasses of bubbles (your choice of Prosecco, Mimosa or Bellini), seasonal fruit platter - served to share, and a delicious main off their special brunch menu. While dining you can relax to incredible live music from renowned jazz singer Michelle Lally with saxophone accompaniment. Not to be missed, get your tickets at the link above.
Blue Raincoat Theatre Company presents Mother Courage and her Children
When: Thursday, October 29th, at 8pm
Where: Black Box Theatre
More information here
Mother Courage and her Children by Bertolt Brecht tells the story of Anna Fierling, nicknamed Mother Courage, a peddler who travels across Europe during the Thirty Years’ War. The play questions the justification of warfare, revealing the hypocrisy of a war fought on religious grounds. As the war unfolds, Mother Courage struggles to keep her business afloat and her three children safe.
Día De Los Muertos
When: Sunday, November 1st, from 10am
Where: Taquila
More information here
Galway, Taquila Mexican Restaurant is bringing a little piece of México to you this Día de los Muertos! This Sunday, November 1st is all about celebrating life, love and remembrance as they honour one of Mexico's most beautiful traditions. From 10am to 12pm, Taquila will host a morning of storytelling, memory and creativity with Ghlór Mná, followed by brunch at Taquila. Following this the restaurant will open for a Día de los Muertos Brunch, offering a taste of tradition with chilaquiles, pan de muerto and Chocolate Abuelita. Visit the link above to make your reservation.
Hysterically Shopping!to some sort of end
When: Thursday, October 29th, at 8pm
Where: Town Hall Theatre
More information here
Glasshouse and tasteinyourmouth are bringing an electric new pop opera about a very modern kind of love to Galway’s Town Hall Theatre for one night only! Meet Carrie. Carrie loves a big shop! She REALLY loves it. She’s in and out of The SuperMarket every day. She adores the big signs and the flashing lights and the shiny packaging! But there’s something drawing her deeper in… Could it have anything to do with that stunning, sleek, sexy… TILL?! When Carrie gets her dream job working at The SuperMarket, she attracts the attention of the lonely, lovesick CASHIER! Soon she’s caught in a twisted love triangle that will have tragic consequences.
Thursday Tastes
When: Thursday, October 29th, from 5.30pm
Where: Kasbah Wine Bar
More information here
Join Kasbah Wine Bar over Neachtains this and every Thursday for their new Thursday Tastes, featuring three carefully selected wines, each paired with a bite created by the kitchen, for €25. If you’d prefer a smaller taste, enjoy one wine and its accompanying bite for just €10. The menu changes monthly, so keep an eye on Kasbah’s social media for the latest offerings. Walk-ins are welcome so make sure to call in.
Contempo Countywide
When: Sunday, November 1st, at 6pm
Where: Clifden Station House Theatre
More information here
ConTempo are delighted to bring their Autumn/Winter programme ‘In Conversation’ to Clifden this weekend. Throughout cultures and centuries, the string quartet has held a fascination in music for composers. This concert invites you to explore its many voices – some familiar and some rarely heard – from a myriad of European cultures in conversation with the incredible work of Irish composers. Join them for the third of their four repertoire programmes this season, ‘One Sea, Two Shores’ where they explore Malta’s island voice, shaped by the currents that passed through its harbours, speaking to the Spanish heat across the Mediterranean and joined by the Irish work by composer Rhona Clarke.
All About The Money
When: Screenings across the weekend
Where: EYE Cinema
More information here
Break Out Pictures are delighted to announce the theatrical release of Sinéad O’Shea’s much anticipated film All About The Money to Irish cinemas, including the EYE Cinema Galway. All About the Money is an investigative journey into the power and peril of extreme wealth — and what happens when one man decides to turn his privilege into revolution. Fergie Chambers is a son of one of America's wealthiest families and creates a communist revolutionary base in rural Massachusetts as a means of disrupting the capitalist system he grew up in but has now come to despise. The film is the starting point of an astonishing journey which has recently hit international headlines after the arrest of Chambers in Spain. The United States is seeking his extradition and recently, the Spanish government initiated the first step in this process by referring the matter to the Spanish courts.
Feature photo by Chaosheng Zhang.
