Christmas in Galway

We are living in Galway and have family visiting from the States over Christmas. This is our first Christmas living here. We are trying to plan some adventures but finding it difficult over 24-26. Will there be any restaurants open for dinner in Galway during these dates? The hotels seem to only be serving guests this year. We plan to do the swim, but are looking for hikes or walks that show the beauty of Ireland during these days. Do you have any suggestions?
Many thanks!

Hi Marlene,

The 24/25th particularly is a fairly quiet time, with the vast majority of places closing as people spend time at home with their familt during this period. Restaurants that are part of a hotel are more likely to offer a Christmas Eve or Christmas Day menu, even though it is a family day in Ireland. You can find some options from the list here. 

Salt Hill Promenade will have some people enjoying the walk on Christmas and Boxing Day. Be sure to check out this page on day trips from Galway as some tour companies resume service on the 26th of December. 

Let me know if you have any other questions.

Cathaoir