NO MATTER WHERE YOU’RE from in Ireland, there’s no denying that Galway just has a certain magic around it – a particular kind that’s hard to capture in any other county. And that magic tends to reach its peak during the madness of the Galway Races.
However, there is so much more to Galway than what goes on during one very short week in Ballybrit. And we’ve rounded up the best happenings around the county.
Here’s all the brilliant stuff that’s taking place away from the horses this month.
Established in 1945, the Ballygar Carnival includes a vibrant parade each year. This year’s theme is “Ballygar Mardi Gras” and will feature costumed performers, bands, floats, all creating an explosion of colour on the streets of the tiny town.
The rest of the week’s festivities will include a giant tug of war, cooking demonstrations from Neven Maguire, an orienteering competition, historical walks around the local castle, a sheepdog demonstration and live music from Nathan Carter and Mike Denver.
What: Ballygar Carnival.
Where: Ballygar, Co. Galway.
When: Thursday, August 3rd to Tuesday, August 8th.
Following on from the success of the Bulmers Live – 100% Irish Stage at Bulmers Forbidden Fruit which was created specifically to support immensely talented, emerging Irish artists like Rusangano Family, Loah and Talos, Bulmers Live will be reemerging in Galway with another brilliant Irish band – Hermitage Green.
Taking place the night of Ladies’ Day, the band will bring their own blend of acoustic folk rock to The Connaught Hotel, after a barbeque hosted by Bulmers from 7pm and the ‘Most Stylish Lady’ competition (with a prize of €1000), judged by stylist Marietta Doran.
What: Hermitage Green play Bulmer’s Live.
Where: The Connaught Hotel.
When: Thursday August 3rd at 9.30pm.
As one of Ireland’s more unusual festivals, the long-running Connemara Pony Festival sees pony enthusiasts gather from around the world to see which pretty pony is awarded the Show Queen – a contest run in ‘Rose of Tralee’-style.
There are also classes, show jumping and dressage competitions, carriage driving, a dog show, art competitions and tours of well-known pony studs nearby, and the chance to buy your own pony.
What: Connemara Pony Festival.
Where: The Showgrounds, Clifden, Co Galway.
When: Tuesday August 15th to Sunday August 20th.
In 1989, 15 people marched from Eyre Square to the Quays Bar in what was to become Galway’s first ever Pride Festival – and this year marks the celebration of its 28th year.
Last year saw a sold-out comedy gig with Katherine Lynch, a block party and a number of informative workshops and family events. This year includes a lip-syncing competition, a treasure hunt around the city and a performance of The Rocky Horror Picture Show.
What: Galway Pride Festival.
Where: Galway city centre.
When: Monday August 7th to Sunday August 13th.
Join Hermitage Green at Bulmers Live in the Connaught Hotel on Thursday August 3rd. After you’ve made an excuse to enjoy these brilliant events in Galway, catch even more great gigs at the rest of Bulmers Live at Leopardstown, which continues until August 17th. Please drink responsibly.
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