Galway is already a great centre of The Arts and Culture. The annual Arts Festival is testament to that and there is a long literary and poetic tradition associated with the county. Galway is home to many theatres and has been home to many writers, playwrights, poets and painters.
And now Galway has been designated European Capital of Culture for 2020. There is a huge programme of events lined up for the year and the year is expected to see a big number of additional visitors to the county.
Already the opening ceremonies have started with events in Clifden and moving on to other towns including Spiddal, Tuam, Ballinasloe, Portumna and Athenry with a spectacular show in Galway City on Saturday 8th February.
There is a massive programme throughout the year. Hardly a day goes by without some event of interest and any time you visit Galway this year you will have a choice of things to do.
The full programme can be found at https://galway2020.ie/en/programme/.
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/galway2020/
Highlights of Galway European Capital of Culture 2020
Here is a small selection of the highlights:
8th February: Opening Ceremony in Galway City
22nd February – 7th March: The Cherry Orchard at Black Box Theatre
7th March: Derry Girls at An Taibhdhearc (already sold out)
17th March: Céilí at the Crossroads – Moycullen
25th March: Apeirogon with novelist Colum McCann at O’Donoghue Theatre
4th April: Céilí at the Crossroads – Clifden
25th April – 3rd May: Cellissimo at various locations
1st–9th May: Galway Theatre Festival
7th May – 5th July: Druid Theatre on tour to various venues in County Galway.
22nd – 24th May: Galway Early Music Festival 2020
7th –12th July: Galway Film Fleadh
13th – 26th July: Galway International Arts Festival 2020
6th – 9th August: Wires Crossed – circus spectaclular in Galway City
August: Fire Garden (fire alchemists Cie Carabosse)
9th – 12th December 2020: Music for Galway celebrates Beethoven.
There are other events later in the year for which dates have not been finalised.
There are numerous exhibitions and performances which continue at various locations throughout the year.
We will be updating this list as new information becomes available.
Check back here for updates to Galway European Capital of Culture 2020 or visit their website at https://galway2020.ie/en/programme/