Galway is a city that knows how to celebrate. From colourful parades and street performances to world-class arts and culinary festivals, there’s always something happening. If you’re planning a visit and want to experience the city’s vibrant culture first-hand, timing your stay around one of Galway’s many events is the perfect way to do it. In this blog, we’re diving into some of the top festivals happening in Galway and how you can enjoy them while staying at the perfectly located Imperial Hotel Galway.
Whether you’re an art lover, a foodie, a music fan or just someone who enjoys a lively atmosphere, Galway has an event for you. And the best part? Many of them take place within easy walking distance from the Imperial Hotel Galway in Eyre Square.
Galway International Arts Festival
Arguably one of Ireland’s most iconic cultural celebrations, the Galway International Arts Festival transforms the city into a creative playground. For two exciting weeks each summer, artists from around the world bring theatre, dance, music and visual arts to venues all over the city.
- Expect large-scale outdoor performances
- Pop-up exhibitions and talks
- Live music and street shows
The festival atmosphere spreads through every corner of the city, and staying at a Galway hotel like the Imperial Hotel Galway puts you right in the centre of it all.
Galway Races
The Galway Races is not just a horse racing event – it’s a tradition. With fashion, fun and fantastic food, it’s one of the biggest social events in the west of Ireland. Thousands of racegoers descend on the city each summer to enjoy a week of excitement and entertainment.
- Live music and entertainment on the streets
- Special events and themed race days
- Buzzing nightlife all week long
Staying at a hotel in Eyre Square means you’re close to all the pre- and post-race festivities, as well as easy transport to the racecourse itself.
Galway Film Fleadh
Film buffs should not miss the Galway Film Fleadh, an international film festival showcasing the best in Irish and global cinema. It’s a brilliant chance to see new films before general release and hear from the creators themselves.
- Screenings of feature films, shorts and documentaries
- Q&A sessions with filmmakers
- Industry events and networking
The festival takes place across venues in Galway City Centre, all within reach of the Imperial Hotel Galway.
Galway Christmas Market
Visiting in winter? Galway’s Christmas Market brings seasonal cheer to Eyre Square with wooden stalls, festive treats and twinkling lights. It’s the ideal spot for picking up unique gifts, sipping mulled wine or enjoying a hot chocolate as you browse.
- Traditional German-style market stalls
- Santa’s Grotto and family attractions
- Carousel, Ferris wheel and live performances
And with the Imperial Hotel Galway just steps away, you can drop off your bags and head straight into the festivities.
More Festivals Worth Exploring
There’s no shortage of other fantastic festivals in Galway throughout the year. Here are a few more to keep an eye out for:
- Galway Comedy Festival – A laugh-out-loud event with stand-up acts from around the world
- Galway Food Festival – Celebrating local flavours and artisan producers
- Trad on the Prom – A dazzling showcase of traditional Irish music and dance
- Cúirt International Festival of Literature – Perfect for book lovers and writers
No matter the season, you’ll find events that make your visit even more memorable.
Galway truly comes alive during festival time. The energy in the city is unbeatable – with music drifting down laneways, performers popping up in public squares, and locals and visitors coming together to celebrate. Staying in a hotel in Galway City Centre gives you the freedom to explore the sights, sounds and experiences at your doorstep.
The Imperial Hotel Galway, located right by Eyre Square, is the perfect base to enjoy it all. Whether you’re planning a summer stay during the Arts Festival or a winter escape for the Christmas Market, everything is close by – shops, restaurants, venues and transport links.
Book your stay today and discover why Galway’s festivals are some of the best in Ireland. In the City, By the Square – it’s where the magic happens.
