Galway, renowned as the city of festivals, offers a vibrant array of events from comedy to ukulele festivals and everything in between. This summer, immerse yourself in a rich tapestry of activities and gatherings, making Galway the ultimate destination. While the weather may be unpredictable, the summer is always alive with the excitement and energy of various festivals and street parties. Here’s a look at some of the biggest festivals happening in Galway this summer.
Galway Races
Ireland’s most famous racing festival, the Galway Races, takes place during the last week of July, spanning seven days of unparalleled excitement. The 2024 festival will run from Monday, July 29th to Sunday, August 4th. Each year, over 100,000 attendees flock to the races, creating an electrifying atmosphere that extends into the vibrant nightlife of Galway. This fun-filled week leaves visitors with unforgettable memories, new friendships, and thrilling experiences. HYDE Hotel is the perfect base for your Galway Races visit.
Galway International Arts Festival
From July 15 to 28, there’s even more live music magic happening in our gorgeous city as the Galway International Arts Festival takes centre stage. This is always an incredible few days of thrilling vocals, raucous guitar riffs, and marvellous melodies, and the 2024 edition promises to be no different. Jess Glynne, Stewart Copeland, and Passenger are just a few of the big names that will rock the Big Top later this year, and you’ll be close to all the fun when you stay at HYDE Hotel for the Galway summer.
Galway Film Fleadh
The Galway Film Fleadh, Ireland’s premier film festival, is a six-day international event held every July. Celebrating its 36th edition in 2024, this festival is dedicated to uniting audiences and filmmakers in an intimate setting, fostering a shared cinematic experience. Screenings will take place at the Pálás Cinema and Town Hall Theatre in the heart of Galway city. The 2024 festival promises 80 captivating Irish and international feature films, with 25% being world premieres. Most films are from debut directors, complemented by over 100 new short films. The festival’s mission is to spotlight diverse and emerging voices in cinema and serve as a springboard for new talent.
The Galway International Oyster Festival
The Galway International Oyster Festival, celebrated every September, holds the distinction of being the oldest oyster festival in the world and one of Europe’s longest-running food fetes. This granddaddy of seafood celebrations invites visitors from across the globe to indulge in a weekend of world-class entertainment and culinary delights. The highlight of the festival is the World Oyster Opening Championships, where skilled competitors vie for the title in a thrilling display of speed and precision.
Seafood enthusiasts can explore the charming city of Galway by following the cobbled streets on the Galway Oyster Festival Seafood Trail, sampling an array of delectable seafood dishes along the way. With its rich history and vibrant atmosphere, the festival offers a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in the flavors and culture of this coastal gem.
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