St Patrick's Day Celebrations

Galway plays host to the traditional Saint Patrick’s Day celebrations with a large parade in Galway city and smaller local parades around the county. In 2026 the celebrations run from Friday 13 March to Tuesday 17 March 2026. Galway also participates fully in Seachtain na Gaeilge / Irish language week from 1st to 17th March.

Watch boat racing from the banks of the Corrib

Don’t miss the return of Galway Head of the River rowing event taking place on Saturday 15th March. Rowing clubs from all over Ireland converge to take part in the long distance rowing race from Lough Corrib all the way to Woodquay in Galway City. Boasting a course that spans three miles, starting at ‘the cut’ near the mouth of the Corrib and concluding beneath the Quincentennial Bridge, boats vie against each other and the clock. The action unfolds across three events, commencing at 10am, 1.30pm, and 4pm, showcasing the prowess of the rowing crews.

Scotland vs Ireland

St Patricks Day Parade Galway

The St Patrick’s Festival parade in Galway on March 17th will mark the highlight of a 4 day celebration of Irish culture and will serve as a platform to showcase the creativity of local artists and community groups. The parade starts at 11.30am and runs through Galway city centre for over 1 hour. The theme for the parade is yet to be confirmed but it will see up to 3000 participants taking part in what will be a colourful spectacle throughout the city centre. The event aims to celebrate Galway’s diverse culture and talent through an inclusive programme of events. Expect many additional events to be held throughout the city over the bank holiday weekend. Parade Route for 2026 The parade route (first used in 2019) will remain in place for 2026, with participants marching from University Road, over the Salmon Weir Bridge, to Eglinton Street and onwards past the viewing stand at Eyre Square and concluding on Prospect Hill.