Looking for things to do in Galway this weekend? We've got you covered! From art exhibitions and live music to festivals and nightlife events, 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.
Festival: Galway Film Fleadh
When: Running until Sunday July 13th
Where: Venues around Galway City
More information here
Cinephiles, rejoice! Ireland’s leading film festival, the Galway Film Fleadh is back in Galway until the 13th with a curated programme featuring 31 World Premieres, 11 International/European Premieres and 46 Irish Premieres from 44 countries. This the 37th Fleadh is bringing 96 feature films to the big screen in total, so if you haven't already had a look through its programme take this as your sign too and get booking asap! This year’s Shorts programme will feature over 100 short films while the Galway Film Fair, the industry arm of the festival, will host meetings for industry professionals with networking events, panel discussions and masterclasses. For more information on this year’s programme and to secure your tickets please see the above link. Early booking advised as tickets are flying out!
Music: Féasta Ceoil an Spidéil ‘25 with An Chéad Ghlúin Eile and Trá Pháidín
When: Thursday July 10th at 8pm, and Friday July 11th at 7.30pm
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 in July beginning this Thursday night at 8pm with sisters Máire & Étáin Ní Churraoin aka An Chéad Ghlúin Eile, and Galway-based band Trá Pháidín who perform on Friday night at 7.30pm. This will be the first time that their debut album An 424, referencing the legendary Galway City - Connemara bus, will be performed live on that same bus route! 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.
Festival: Diamond Hill Music Festival
When: Running until Sunday July 13th
Where: Letterfrack
More information here
Taking place in the stunning surrounds of Connemara on July 9-13th, the Diamond Hill Music Festival brings top Irish acts and rising stars to one unforgettable stage. There will be incredible live music performances, an unmissable lineup of food trucks and tons of unforgettable moments. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your dancing shoes (and maybe your hiking boots) for this one-of-a-kind experience.
Theatre: Beckett sa Chreig; Guth na mBan
When: Friday & Saturday July 10th & 11th, at 8pm
Where: An Taibhdhearc
Tickets available here
An Taibhdhearc with Company SJ present Beckett sa Chreig: Guth na mBan; four short works by Samuel Beckett, newly translated into Irish and being performed together for the first time ever. Guth na mBan / Voice of the Women is the second part in a series by Company SJ, directed by Sarah Jane Scaife, following on from the award-winning Beckett sa Chreig: Laethanta Sona (2021). A compelling visual experience, told through the voices of the women in Beckett's Footfalls · Not I · Rockaby and the reading of Fizzle 4, set against the wild and physical landscape of the west coast of Ireland and the broken, haunted colonial architecture of Dublin. Beckett sa Chreig: Guth na mBan offers both long-time admirers of Beckett and newcomers a fresh and affecting theatrical experience. The show will run as part of Galway International Arts Festival with preview shows taking place this Friday and Saturday nights. For more information please see here.
Day Trip: Inis Mór with Aran Island Ferries
When: Available daily throughout July
Where: Ferry departs from The Galway Docks
More information here
Sometimes you just need to get away from it all for a bit and with the help of Aran Island Ferries you can! Leave your desk behind and get outdoors for the experience of a lifetime. With the summer season in full swing head off on an Aran Island Ferries day trip to Inis Mór where you can visit all of the island’s must-see attractions (such as the prehistoric fort of Dún Aonghasa and the famous Wormhole (or Poll na bPéist), a stunning natural rock pool), check out the local cafés, bars and restaurants, and enjoy a slower pace of life for a bit. Experience all of this and more before returning home via the Cliffs of Moher and enjoying views of this iconic landmark from a new angle. If you would like to see our full Inis Mór day trip itinerary tap more.
Launch: Patryk Gizicki – ‘Stay Forever More’ Exhibition as part of GIAF
When: Saturday June 12th, from 3pm
Where: Outset Gallery
More information here
Outset Gallery is delighted to present “Stay Forever More”, launching on July 12th at 3pm to 9pm for Galway International Arts Festival 2025. “Stay Forever More” is a semi-fictional, reflective photographic series by Patryk Gizicki exploring themes of home, belonging, and coming of age. Drawing on personal experience, the work reconstructs and confronts memories of Gizicki’s childhood and adolescence growing up in Castlebar, County Mayo. Through an installation of images that evoke feelings of transition and in-between states, “Stay Forever More” reflects on the complexities of settling in, identity, and belonging. The preview / launch event will also coincide with Outset Gallery’s 3rd Year Anniversary, marking the opening in July 2022. To celebrate the launch of the GIAF production & Outset’s anniversary, they will be having a full day of celebrations with Live Music from Blue Detroit & refreshments from generous sponsors All About Kombucha, Kinnegar, and Sheridan’s. This exhibition will run until August 24th.
Tasting: Galway Gems - A guided whiskey tasting
When: Thursday July 10th, at 5.30pm
Where: the g Hotel & Spa
Tickets available here
Step into The Gentleman’s Lounge at the g Hotel & Spa for an evening of Irish whiskey tasting, celebrating the spirit of Galway and beyond! This experience features exceptional Irish Whiskeys. Their experienced food & beverage team will guide you through each pour, sharing the stories & flavours behind each of these distinctive whiskeys; Connemara Peated Single Malt, Micil Earls Island Pot Still and Clan Colla 11 Year Old. If you are a whiskey lover, this event is not to be missed.
Comedy: Katie Boyle: Roe v. Wade Versus Katie
When: Friday July 11th, at 7pm
Where: Róisín Dubh
More information here
Following her sold-out tour of Ireland in summer 2024, US-based Irish comic Katie Boyle is returning home this summer with the new stand up show she is working on, ‘Roe v. Wade Versus Katie’. It’s about abortion rights, life in America, Saint Brigid, doing long distance with a childhood crush and Irish history. Join Katie for a uniquely personal dark comedy show at the Róisín Dubh this Friday night.
Activity: Pedal Power Galway
When: Book a day/time that suits you!
Where: Galway City
Book your experience here
Looking for a fun, unique way to see Galway this weekend? Grab your friends and hop aboard one of Pedal Power Galway’s multi-person bikes for a tour like no other. Whether you're a local looking for a fresh way to spend your Saturday or a visitor eager to soak up the sights, this is an unforgettable way to experience the city. These pedal-powered pub crawl tours are the perfect blend of sightseeing, socialising, and a little light cardio, all at a leisurely pace. Cruise through Galway City and Salthill, stop for a few well-earned pints and pictures, and enjoy the buzz of the city from a whole new angle. The best part? The tours can be tailored to suit your group’s vibe, and Pedal Power partners with local bars and businesses to make sure you have an amazing time.
Activity: Barre at the Bar with Jessi Healy
When: Sunday July 13th, at 3pm
Where: Massimo
Tickets available here
Join Jessi Healy at Massimo Bar Galway for a 45-minute barre class where you can expect a mix of ballet inspired strength, mobility, and low-impact movement, suitable for all levels. This is a feel good Sunday pop-up at Massimo Bar Galway where barre meets bar. Bring your own mat and wear something comfy! There is also the option for you to stick around after for a drink and chat too. Tickets are limited, so get yours asap!
Nightlife: The Over 30’s Club Night
When: Saturday July 12th, from 8pm
Where: The Loft at Seven
Tickets available here
Want a night out but can’t do late nights? Come join all your fellow over 30s for a night of dancing, drinks, and good vibes at Seven in Galway! DJ Jack Lyons is turning back time with an epic mix of 90s & 00s classics, Clubland anthems, and those nostalgic hits you forgot you loved! Expect neon glowsticks, party props, and an unforgettable trip down memory lane! Doors from 8pm ’til Midnight—perfectly timed for those who want a great night out and still enjoy the next day! It’s time to get the band back together, dust off those dancing shoes, and we’ll see you on the dance floor!
Music: Cóisir Thí: DJ Seisiúin le Samhraidh
When: Friday July 11th, from 6.30pm
Where: Plámás
More information here
It’s time for the final Coisír Thí of Plámás’ DJ seisiúin le samhraidh, and you do not want to miss it! For the evening they will have music from the fabulous DJ Lolz, from 6:30pm on Friday night. Street closures will be in effect opening up the space for good craic, good chats, and lots of yummy treats (sober, of course, but still buzzing) . It's going to be something special, we hope to see you there.
Dance Performance: Trad on the Prom
When: Thursday & Sunday, July 10th & 13th, at 8.30pm
Where: Leisureland
More information here
Traditional Irish music, song, dance and entertainment all come together on one stage in the heart of Galway, in a unique and unforgettably intimate theatre experience. This is Trad on the Prom, a cultural highlight of the Wild Atlantic Way and a MUST for every Irish holiday adventure! Since 2005, Trad on the Prom has been thrilling visitors from home and abroad with its extraordinary, electrifying energy and passionate, personal performances - delivering traditional, authentic Irish music, song and dance with a thrilling contemporary edge. So much more than a show, Trad on the Prom is a from-the-heart joyful celebration of life: Irish style. Trad on the Prom are hosting three shows per week right up until the end of September, but tickets are already selling fast so secure yours today and get ready for a phenomenal night.
Nightlife: Club GASS
When: Friday July 11th, from 11pm
Where: Róisín Dubh
Tickets available here
Your favourite queer night returns to Róisín Dubh for another round of drag, DJs, and pure chaos, and you’re invited. With music from DJ Corey Herself downstairs and DJ ‘lil Monica upstairs, two floors, endless bangers. Expect fierce performances, big energy, and the most iconic crowd in Galway. Let’s get hot, loud, and glittered up for the most fabulous Friday of the summer!
Demo: Show & Tell - Life and Conflict in Gaelic Ireland
When: Saturday June 12th, from 11am
Where: Galway City Museum
More information here
The Keepers of the Gael at Galway City Museum explores Gaelic society and culture in Ireland between 1200 and 1600, a period of struggle and conflict, bookended by the Anglo-Norman invasion and the Tudor conquest. Join Dave Swift of Claíomh (‘sword’ in the Irish language) Living History for this special display of the weapons, armour, clothing, and equipment of the Gaelic Irish of the type used in their struggle to maintain control of their ancestral lands and way of life. Dave will show and demonstrate the material culture of the period, share stories, and welcome any questions. No booking required – just drop into the Museum anytime between 11am and 2pm.
Wedding: Summer Wedding Showcase
When: Sunday July 13th, from 10am
Where: The Ardilaun Hotel
More information here
Calling all engaged couples! The Ardilaun Hotel’s next Wedding Showcase is happening this Sunday, between 10am to 5pm, complete with floral decorations that will inspire your dream wedding. Join them for a day filled with inspiration, elegant setups, and everything you need to plan your dream day. Tour their elegant venue, meet the dedicated wedding team, and envision your perfect day among the blooming gardens and sophisticated spaces. From intimate ceremonies to grand celebrations, discover why The Ardilaun has been Galway’s premiere wedding destination for generations. RSVP now by contacting Alison at weddings@theardilaunhotel.ie or enquiring via their website here.
Shop: Woodberrys’ Little Summer Wine Pour
When: Sunday July 13th, from 2pm
Where: The Harbour Hotel
Tickets available here
Join Woodberrys for a cheerful Sunday afternoon tipple at the Harbour Hotel, where they’ll be pouring their way through a glorious line-up of summer-ready wines. Expect over 50 wines to sample, handpicked (with much sipping and swirling) to match the warmer months, featuring gems from brilliant producers like Monte Zovo, Müller, Ostatu, and Cossetti. They’ll also be debuting a few brand-new, exclusive wines that have never before graced their shelves, and possibly never before graced a wine glass in Galway! Whether you’re a seasoned sipper or someone who just wants to find their new favourite bottle for the BBQ, there’s something here for everyone. Wines will be available to order on the day with free delivery, and here’s the clever bit: hang on to your ticket, as its value can be redeemed against any order placed on the day, or in person at the warehouse (or even over the phone if you’re feeling old school), up until the 20th of July.
Dining: Pastacrisciut
When: Every Sunday, and Wednesdays throughout July and August
Where: The Galway Market by St Nicholas’ Collegiate Church
Discover more here
If you’re wandering around the Galway Market and feeling peckish, make a beeline for Pastacrisciut, the fried pizza here is an absolute must-try. Run by the talented chef Lia Vavuso, this charming food truck serves up traditional street food from Napoli. From crocché and frittataini di pasta to panini Napoletani and focaccia, everything on the menu is packed with flavour and made with love. Her creations are one-of-a-kind and seriously delicious, so much so, they usually sell out fast so make sure you get there early and treat yourself to some unforgettable bites!
Launch: ‘pass the baton’ Exhibition
When: Sunday July 13th, from 6pm
Where: Galway Arts Centre
Tickets available here
Galway Arts Centre is delighted to present a collaborative exhibition by artists Laura O’Connor and Léann Herlihy as part of Galway International Arts Festival 2025, launching on July 13th with an afterparty at 8pm. ‘pass the baton’, draws on personal histories of competitive sport and performance to interrogate ideas of identity, nationalism and bodily resilience. A very special afterparty will take place on the same night from 8pm in Club Áras na nGael with an eclectic mix of tunes spun by the one and only, artist, designer, stylist, maker of all things and all round live wire Margaret O’Connor joined by dancing divas The Betablockers. Entry only via Galway Arts Centre, with last entry at 8:30pm. RSVPing is essential. Put your name on the guestlist here.
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.
Feature photo by Chaosheng Zhang.
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