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WHERE: Galway, Ireland
WHEN: from 14th to 27th July 2025
Music. Theater and dance. Visual arts. Opera. Street shows. This, and much more, awaits you at the Galway Arts Festival, one of Ireland’s most important cultural events.
Born in 1978, it has earned numerous appreciations, thanks to the excellent organization, and the varied schedule. This has translated with an increasing number of spectators, up to exceeding 250000 admissions with the last edition.
“The Guardian” placed it among the 5 best summer festivals in all of Europe!
Since 2014 it has been officially called the Galway International Arts Festival, also known by the acronym GIAF.
As per tradition, it takes place during the two central weeks of June.
Photo ©, Barnacles Budget Accommodations
Over the years, First Thought Talks has become a true trademark of the festival. Since 2012, “discussions” have been hosted on a specific topic. Discussions that can be followed online and live on Facebook.
Not least, music is another protagonist of the Galway Arts Festival. The Big Top Tent, which is located in the NUI Campus area, has become a true icon of GIAF. Here, in recent years, Elvis Costello, Suede, David Byrne, Blondie, and many others have taken the stage.
PRACTICAL INFO
THE PLACES OF THE FESTIVAL
Over 200 events await you at GIAF 2025, hosted in at least 30 different locations. Eyre Square will also be the protagonist of this 47th edition. Town Hall Theater, not far from the square, and Claddag Quai with its Mirror Pavillion, will be other important locations. Claddagh Quai, is located on the other side of the Corrib, beyond the Spanish Arc. It can be reached in about 15 minutes on foot from Eyre Square.
To the north of the square, just under a kilometer away, stands the Heineken Big Top, the official venue for GIAF concerts.
GALWAY ARTS FESTIVAL PROGRAM 2025
Photo ©, Barnacles Budget Accommodation
Music, as always, a great protagonist. Here are the artists who will perform at the Heineken Big Top:
- 14: Amble
- 17: Sophie Ellis-Bextor + Natasha Bedingfied (special guest)
- 18: Block Rockin Beats
- 19: The Mary Wallopers
- 20: Kingfishr
- 21 e 22: Picture This
- 24: Mogway
Concerts start around 8pm.
THEATRE
To celebrate its 50th anniversary, the Druid Theatre will stage two shows during GIAF 2025, starting July 7, directed by Garry Hynes. In “Knights at the Sea” by JM Synge, the lyricism of Western Ireland meets the majesty of the Atlantic Ocean in a one-act play not to be missed. Garry Hynes will direct the unmissable Macbeth, with Marty Rea in the role of Macbeth and Marie Mullen as Lady Macbeth
Great anticipation, of course, for the splendid Saturday parade that passes through the main streets and squares of the city. You will be able to admire eccentric costumes, giants, and incredible masks.
TICKETS 2025
The price varies according to the guests and events. To attend the two theatrical shows, the ticket costs from €25 to €35 per person, depending on the seat.
The musical shows cost from €35 to €59.50. All children under 16 must be accompanied by a paying adult.
*All information is for informational purposes only and should not be considered official. Appointments may be subject to change. We therefore invite you to consult the official website for all updates. All trademarks and names contained herein belong to their respective owners.
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