I’m feeling festive! How can I spend a Christmassy day in Galway?

The island of Ireland is abuzz with Christmas cheer in December, and, luckily for you, Galway is one of our most festive locations! Here’s our day in Galway city itinerary: Christmas edition… 

Nothing says Christmas like chocolate for breakfast, right? So first of all we’re hitting Galway’s Christmas Market where over 50 stalls line Eyre Square. Here you’ll find an array of handmade gifts, artisan produce and the tastiest treats including French pastries, chocolate crepes and waffles – delicious! You can also expect choirs singing carols, theatrical performances and fairground rides like the 32-metre-high big wheel, where the best view of the market’s twinkling lights and decorations can be enjoyed from the top. 

If you didn’t pick up those all-important gifts at the market, then fear not because Galway city is a shopper's paradise. Head to Ireland’s oldest jewellery shop Thomas Dillon’s Claddagh Gold on Quay Street for that sparkly special something made by the original manufacturers of the claddagh ring, or visit 2 Wild Geese on Cross Street Upper for original art, ceramics, prints and candles. And if you’re looking for a gift that shouts “I’ve been to the island of Ireland!” then pick up a cosy handknit Aran sweater from Designs of Ireland or the Galway Woollen Market. 

When it comes to dinner, Christmas calls for a cosy little spot that keeps the winter chill at bay. IL Vicolo offers a candle-lit Italian feast in their charming restaurant in Galway’s Latin Quarter. Alternatively, for something a little more relaxed, try An Púcán. This multi-award-winning traditional bar serves hearty food all day, with traditional favourites such as Irish stew making it a perfect winter choice. 

Now that the sun has set, your shopping is done and your bellies are full, it’s time to step outside and enjoy the Christmas lights. Gaze up at the large Christmas star, admire the “swans a-swimming” and follow the lights’ display from Eyre Square to the Spanish Arch. Make sure to take lots of photographs! 

Finally, head into Taaffes Bar for a nightcap. This traditional Irish music bar has the perfect lively vibe to finish off your Christmas-themed day – and we heard that the traditional music goes down well with a warming Irish coffee. 

Top tip: If you are in Galway on Christmas Day, you should join in on the Christmas Day swim on Blackrock Beach near the diving tower! 

How does our Community like to spend the festive season in Ireland?

Hey there! Your festive day in Galway sounds absolutely enchanting!

The Christmas Market at Eyre Square seems like a delightful start, surrounded by the aroma of French pastries and the joy of carol-singing choirs. The idea of finding unique gifts at places like Thomas Dillon’s Claddagh Gold and 2 Wild Geese adds a special touch to the holiday spirit. Dinner at IL Vicolo or An Púcán sounds like a perfect way to warm up in the winter chill.

And the stroll under the Christmas lights from Eyre Square to the Spanish Arch sounds magical! Taaffe's Bar with its traditional Irish music and the promise of a warming Irish coffee is an ideal ending to such a festive day. Thanks for sharing this magical Christmas itinerary for Galway—I can almost hear the bodhran beats resonating through the festive cheer!