Galway Summer Festivals 2026 - Stay in the Heart of the City
Galway comes alive every summer with some of Ireland’s most celebrated festivals and The Hardiman puts you right in the middle of it all. Our four-star hotel on Eyre Square is the perfect city-centre base for exploring everything the season has to offer, from world-class theatre and film to the excitement of the Galway Races. Walk to most festival venues in minutes, return to a stylish room each evening, and wake up to a full Irish breakfast before your next day of festival-going. Whether you’re planning around one event or making a week of it, The Hardiman is where your Galway summer begins.
Galway International Arts Festival 13-26th July 2026
GIAF is one of Europe’s leading arts festivals, drawing theatre, dance, music, visual arts, and street performance to venues across the city. Many performances take place within a 5–10 minute walk of The Hardiman. Our team can help arrange tickets and suggest the best shows of the season. Stay at The Hardiman.
Galway Film Fleadh 7th-11th July 2026
The Galway Film Fleadh is an internationally acclaimed festival featuring world premieres, director Q&As, and industry workshops at venues around the city. The festival is from The Hardiman is a proud supporter of the Fleadh and with Pálás Cinema just minutes from Eyre Square] , you’ll never miss a screening. Book your Film Fleadh stay.
Galway Races Summer Festival 27th July to 2nd August 2026
The Galway Races Summer Festival is one of the biggest events in the Irish social calendar, and The Hardiman is the ideal base. Coach transfers to Ballybrit Racecourse depart from Eyre Square right outside our front door. Our Race & Stay package includes B&B with a full Irish Breakfast. You also have full access to our bars, brasserie, and pub so you can focus on the racing and leave the rest to us. View Race & Stay Package.
Galway International Oyster & Seafood Festival 25th–27th September
The Galway International Oyster & Seafood Festival is one of the most iconic events in the Irish calendar and The Hardiman has a unique place in its story. The festival was first launched in September 1954 by Brian Collins, the manager of the Great Southern Hotel, the building that is now home to The Hardiman. Over 70 years later, the festival remains one of the world’s great food events, described by the Sunday Times as “one of the 12 greatest shows on earth.” Held at Nimmo’s Pier each year, the festival celebrates Galway’s famous native oysters with the Irish and World Oyster Opening Championships, top-class entertainment, seafood trails, and a lively atmosphere that draws visitors from across the globe. Nimmo’s Pier is just a 6-minute drive from The Hardiman, making us the ideal base for the weekend. Book your Oyster Festival stay.
Blas Na Bealtaine – A Taste of May Food Festival 1st–31st May
Blas Na Bealtaine is Galway’s month-long celebration of local food, drink, and culture. The city’s producers and restaurants pull out all the stops throughout May. From foraging walks and artisan tastings to pop-up dinners and producer showcases, there’s something on every day of the month. The Hardiman is proud to be part of the festival this year. On 7th May, join us at MacNeill’s Bar for a special evening celebrating Irish staples: Music, Dance and Seafood Chowder, a night of live music, traditional dance, and great food in the heart of Galway city. Book your May stay.