Looking for things to do in Galway this weekend? We've got you covered! From craft nights to festivals, tastings 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 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.
Galway Pride Week
When: Running until Saturday, August 8th
Where: Galway City
More information here
It’s Galway Pride Week! There’s loads to get involved with ahead of its grand finale so make sure you tap on the above link to find out what’s on. On Saturday, the Pride Parade will bring colour, music and magic to the streets so now is the time to mark those calendars and start planning your looks. On the same day, Róisín Dubh will host Club GASS for a full day and night of celebration, drag, music and dancing. Hosted by Kiki St. Clair, with special guests Paul Ryder, Avatar Guille and Abra Kedavre, alongside a lineup of Club GASS favourites. Right up until then however you can expect a mix of community gatherings, awareness and mental health events, arts and performance nights, live music, late-night parties and plenty of spaces to connect with LGBTQ+ people and allies. There will be family-friendly moments, sober and low-sensory spaces, as well as high-energy club nights so there’s something for everyone.
Galway Whiskey Club x Garden County Distillery - Whiskey Tasting
When: Thursday, August 6th, at 7.30pm
Where: MP Walsh
More information here
Join the team at MP Walsh’s for a first for whiskey in Galway because Founder Gavin Clifford of Garden County Distillery is paying them a visit this Thursday for a special whiskey tasting. Garden County Distillery will walk you through their line up of drams on the night and in true Gavin fashion it promises to be an entertaining one to say the least. A great character will tell you all about the trials and tribulations of running a new distillery while working with your one other colleague- Your Dad!! It’s the perfect chance to sip, chat, and discover some fantastic whiskey. Whether you’re a whiskey newbie or a seasoned fan, this event like previous ones promises good spirits and great company With a cocktail and food thrown in to make a night of it!
Craic Sabbath performs Master of Reality
When: Friday, August 7th, from 9pm
Where: Sally Longs
More information here
Celebrate 55 years of one of heavy metal's most influential albums as a special tribute to Black Sabbath's legendary Master of Reality comes to Sally Longs on Friday night. Marking more than five decades since the album's release, Craic Sabbath pays homage to the record that helped shape the sound of metal, with fans invited to experience its iconic tracks performed live in an evening dedicated to one of the genre's greatest classics. Not to be missed!
Emer Maguire: Notions
When: Sunday, August 9th, doors at 8pm
Where: Róisín Dubh
More information here
With shows fuelled by powerful storytelling, devilish quick wit, and hilarious musical interludes, Emer has become a must see star of comedy in Ireland. Her brand new show Notions sees Emer share her experiences of life through hilarious stories and irreverent comedy songs. Emer’s comedy is a no holds barred look at life - whether it’s her upbringing, relationship woes, or life as an autistic adult. Every line is delivered with a refreshingly honest candour that leaves audiences with both tears of heartbreak and laughter. An emotional rollercoaster filled with laugh out loud stories and a lot of heart. Don’t miss out on Emer Maguire - Notions.
The Collective in Concert
When: Saturday, August 8th, at 8pm
Where: St Nicholas Collegiate Church
More information here
One of London’s most vibrant vocal ensembles is coming to Galway for a special one-off concert. An eclectic troupe of actors, writers, conductors, and other big-hearted musicians, The Collective is celebrating ten years of making a joyful noise with a performance at St Nicholas Collegiate Church on Saturday night. Expect lively jazz standards, reimagined pop songs, musical theatre anthems and dazzling new choral works – all delivered with the Collective’s trademark panache. Guaranteed to leave you smiling (but be warned it may bring a tear to your eye, too). Don’t miss out on this inspirational night of singing. One night only!
Bubbly Jazz Brunch
When: Sunday, August 9th, 12-3pm
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.
Sunflower Picking
When: Thursday, August 6th, 2-6pm and Saturday & Sunday, August 8th & 9th, 11am-4pm
Where: Galway Pumpkin Patch, Ardrahan, H91 CX3W
More information here
Before they’re gone for another year, make sure you pay the Galway Pumpkin Patch or Galway Sunflower Patch as they are now a visit and pick yourself out a lovely bunch of sunflowers to brighten your home. On site there is a coffee truck and loads for the kids to interact with including playgrounds, slides and free facepainting for the smallies! No booking required, pay at gate.
horses EP Launch
When: Saturday, August 8th, at 8.30pm
Where: The Mick Lally Theatre
More information here
This Saturday, singer-songwriter Cormac Looby and Galway producer Pádraig Hughes are bringing their ‘horses’ EP launch tour to the Mick Lally Theatre with support from Keeva Killeen. This collaborative project tackles themes of anxiety, growth and loss with heavy influence from artists like Phoebe Bridgers, Samia and Ben Howard.
Bridges 2026 Family Day
When: Saturday, August 8th, 1-5pm
Where: Áras na Mac Léinn, University of Galway
More information here
Bridges is an annual international conference celebrating connections of mathematics to the arts, including visual arts, music, performing arts and culture. This year's conference runs from August 5th to 8th at the University of Galway and includes a family day on Saturday 8th. Family day is completely free. On the day, visitors can take part in hands-on workshops in the Foyer and The Hub, while an art exhibition showcasing a range of works will be on display in Bailey Allen Hall. Film lovers can enjoy a short film festival followed by a Q&A with the filmmakers in The View at 1pm. Between 2.30pm and 4.30pm, head to The Cube for a unique blend of dance and mathematics through engaging activities, before rounding off the afternoon with a poetry reading in The View from 3pm.
Cruinniú na mBád / Galway Hooker Festival
When: Friday to Sunday, August 7th to 9th
Where: Kinvara
More information here
Cruinniú na mBád, one of Ireland's longest-running traditional sailing festivals, returns to Kinvara this weekend to celebrate its 47th anniversary. The festival honours the living tradition of the magnificent Galway Hooker, with a spectacular regatta featuring these iconic vessels alongside the legendary turf boats. Throughout the weekend, the picturesque harbour village comes alive with the sounds of some of Ireland's finest traditional musicians and singers, creating an unforgettable atmosphere. Visitors can also enjoy exhibitions, sailing demonstrations, a farmers' market, live music, horseshoe throwing competitions, painting sessions, and a host of family-friendly activities.
Dragged Up
When: Friday, August 7th, at 8.30pm
Where: Róisín Dubh
More information here
Dragged Up is the electrifying drag supergroup bringing glamour, chaos, comedy, and unforgettable performances to Galway Pride weekend. Starring the iconic Victoria Secret, the unstoppable Paul Ryder, and the fierce Regina George. From jaw-dropping looks to laugh-out-loud moments, Dragged Up blends drag excellence with pure party energy, creating a show that’s as heartfelt as it is hilarious. Whether you’re a longtime drag fan or discovering the magic for the first time, expect lip-syncs, live vocals, audience interaction, and enough charisma to light up all of Galway. Keeping the party going all night long will be DJ Ruth and DJ Regina George, delivering an incredible soundtrack of Pride anthems, dancefloor classics, and feel-good beats. This Pride weekend, Dragged Up promises an unforgettable night of glitter, pride, and unapologetic fabulousness. The show will also be joined by some fabulous local talent on the night, with the full line-up to be announced shortly. One night. One community. Endless pride. Galway, are you ready?
Café Lates - Craft Night for Galway Pride
When: Thursday, August 6th, at 6.30pm
Where: Plámás
More information here
Café Lates make their return to Plámás this Galway Pride Week with a special craft night. Whether you’re a beginner with big dreams, craft curious, or a DIY diva, come hang out, get creative, and celebrate Pride with the Plámás team. Led by team member Ciara, expect good vibes, colourful crafts, and a relaxed space to meet people, make something you’re proud of, or simply enjoy a wholesome night out.
André Rieu’s 2026 Summer Concert: Viva Maastricht!
When: Saturday & Sunday, August 8th & 9th, at 6pm & 3.30pm respectively
Where: Eye Cinema
More information here
This year, André Rieu celebrates a spectacular milestone - the 20th anniversary of his iconic summer concerts on the magnificent Vrijthof square. Captured live in his beloved hometown, this brand-new cinema event marks two decades of music and unforgettable magical summer nights. Viva Maastricht! is a joyful tribute to the city where it all began. Joined by his world-renowned Johann Strauss Orchestra and a vibrant ensemble of artists, André brings the spirit, culture, and warmth of his hometown to life in a dazzling new concert filled with emotion and wonder. From timeless waltzes to soul-stirring classics, this landmark anniversary concert promises an evening of passion, joy, and togetherness. Be part of this historic celebration as the Vrijthof once again transforms into a breathtaking open-air ballroom and watch it unfold on the big screen at Eye Cinema.
Silent Comedy Nights
When: Saturday, August 8th, doors at 7.30pm
Where: Silent Cinema Galway
More information here
This Saturday night, Silent Cinema Galway invites you to two short comedies starring silent film stars, Roscoe "Fatty" Arbuckle, Mabel Normand, Douglas Fairbanks, and Bessie Love in The Mystery of the Leaping Fish and Fatty and Mabel Adrift (both from 1916). These silent comedy classics are so much more than Charlie Chaplin, Buster Keaton and Harold Lloyd. Laughter guaranteed! Both films will receive a live piano accompaniment by Agustina Taborda.
Feature photo by Chaosheng Zhang.
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