Your July Galway Guide for Music, Art and More
From the Arts Festival and the Film Fleadh to the buzz of the races, July is bursting with lots of highly anticipated events – and it’s not too late to snag your ticket. Here's the best events to fill your calendar with this month.
Watch
The Galway Film Fleadh, Ireland’s annual leading film festival, will run from 7-12th July in the heart of the city.
Watch a gorgeous selection of Irish and international cinema, with world premieres and acclaimed filmmakers showcased throughout the six day affair.
Though you should move fairly quickly, tickets aren't sold out yet! You can still grab a seat for Goin’ Out West, Walking Holiday and plenty of other breathtaking films. Check out some highlights of the programme here.
For the real film buffs, alongside the variety of showings are masterclasses given by experts in their fields, insightful showcases and a Fleadh Forum with Director of Strategy John Bein, too.
Nab your tickets and find out more information at galwayfilmfleadh.com.
Immerse
By now you've probably spotted the giant man that appeared one afternoon near the Spanish Arch (artist Sean Henry's "Seated Figure" caused quite a stir). The beloved Galway International Arts Festival returns this month from 13–26th July, offering a totally immersive cultural experience for all.
This year’s programme is big in every way. Two weeks of dance, circus, music, visual art, theatre, opera and talks will stretch from Galway City to Connemara, with something for just about everyone.
While some shows have sold out already, there are still plenty of tickets left for some amazing performances and beautiful exhibitions. Highlights include the world-class circus act Carnation, the debut of the Patti Smith Quartet – and if you're looking for a good laugh, comedy show The Laughter Loft.
We've rounded up our must-sees here.
Peruse
On July 25th, Outset Gallery will host one of their popular Outset Indoor Markets, where local creatives can showcase their work and connect with the community.
The market brings together a diverse mix of art, design, vintage goods, records, clothing, ceramics and more, with music from a live Dj on the night. Alongside the market, Gallery Director Luke Reidy will present his new exhibition, “The Space Between”.
Swing by for a nose and to celebrate some beautiful work – you might leave with a lovely new print, piece of pottery, or even a vintage chair!
Find out more on their website.
Wager
The iconic Galway Races Summer Festival is back with a bang from 27th July to 2nd August at Ballybrit racecourse. Expect a high energy mix of entertainment, top-class sports and a buzzing atmosphere all throughout.
Country Music Day on the 29th will see Michael English take to the stage, while Ladies Day will see all the glamour on Thursday 30th. On Sunday 2nd, the Mad Hatter's Family Fun Day will bring the festival to a colourful close.
Whether you’re betting your luck on a horse or two, or simply going to soak up the atmosphere, you're in for plenty of fun.
Buy tickets and see the full schedule at galwayraces.com
Rock
WTAF!? has returned for a second year of bold and brilliant performances. The Westend Theatre & Arts Festival, which takes place from 20-29th July, celebrates all manner of work from emerging artists in the West.
With theatre, music, drag, circus, comedy and more, the WTAF!? is all about celebrating upcoming artists who are unapologetically themselves – so you can expect a vibrant line-up that won't disappoint.
Shows like The Northside Raven, Galway Voices, and performances by Mother Bunker! and Rust take place at varying locations all over the West End.
Grab tickets and see the full programme at wttaffringe.com
Listen
On 17th July, award-winning Irish author Jane Casey will join Sarah Kenny in conversation about her new book Everything She Didn’t Say at Kenny's Bookshop.
The compelling murder mystery follows Irish woman Ruth, found in bloodied clothes on the coast of County Mayo and insisting she doesn't know the whereabouts of another local woman, recently vanished...
Tickets for the event are free but limited! Signed copies from Casey will be available on the night too. Reserve your place at kennys.ie
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