🌟 What’s On During the Festival Weekend (14–17 March 2026)
The festival is much more than a parade. Here’s the broader weekend programme:
Festival Village at Eyre Square: From 14–17 March — this will be the main hub for free outdoor concerts, music, entertainment and performances. Expect a mix of live music, cultural showcases and family‑friendly acts. Galway Tourism
Family & Kids’ Activities: There will be fun, family‑oriented entertainment — ideal for children and families, with games, music, possibly circus‑style or creative performances, and a welcoming atmosphere for all ages.
Sporting & Rowing Events: The traditional rowing competition Tribesmen Head of the River returns — a beloved local rowing race on the Corrib / Lough Corrib route. Great for a different kind of St. Patrick’s Day experience.
Cultural Celebrations: Expect traditional Irish music and dance, street performances, possibly boat‑based celebrations (in some years there's a maritime / harbour‑area component), arts, crafts, and more — reflecting Galway’s lively cultural scene.
Citywide Festive Atmosphere: Light displays (“greening of the city”), decorations, pub sessions, community events and the natural buzz that comes from hundreds of visitors and locals alike joining in — giving Galway a festive, welcoming, inclusive vibe
The Parade will start at 11.30 am and finish at approximately 1.00 pm.
The theme of this year's parade will coincide with Galway 2025 as the Capital of Culture and the highlights of this years parade in Galway are expected to include Galway Arts Centre, 1st Port of Galway Sea Scouts, Salthill Devon Football Club, Ability West, GCS Judo, Funky Drums School, Galway Bay Rugby Club, Get Rhythm creating a kaleidoscope of of Galway’s rich mix of cultural and ethnic diversity.
St Patrick's Festival Galway is a platform to showcase local artists and community groups. It aims to celebrate the city's diverse culture and talent through an inclusive programme of events. They aim to create a carnival atmosphere that the whole city can be part of and they do.
This year's parade highlights are expected to be the Galway Arts Centre, Colours Street Theatre, An Taibhdhearc Theatre and Galway Theatre Festival with community groups such as Foróige, GAA clubs, Amnesty International and The Russian Culture Club creating a kaleidoscope of of Galway's rich mix of cultural and ethnic diversity.
Music
Over the weekend, enjoy free traditional music concerts in a ‘stretch tent’ located in Eyre Square, kicking off at 2pm, 4pm, 6pm, and 8pm on Sunday15th, Monday 16th and Tuesday 17th March 2026.
Family fun day and Amusements in Salthill
Over the course of the weekend Leisureland and Salthill Park will host a Family Fun Day. Everyone is in for a fantastic day filled with games and activities.
In addition to other in-theme activities, families will enjoy the Fun Day’s take on rowing, glow games, athletics, Drumadore, yoga, pickleball, and face painting.