galways westend Archives

Galway Races Summer Vibes – Where the city meets the track for a week of unbeatable fun!

July 5, 2024

Race week 24 kicks off in style with a full city centre entertainment program

Galway City is set to come alive with a full free entertainment program as the Galway Summer Vibes campaign kicks off on Monday, July 29th, running through Wednesday, July 31st. This campaign aims to kick start the race week festival in the city centre before and after the main business of the day, the racing! From Monday free live entertainment, fashion showcases, and a variety of family-friendly activities will be happening throughout the city.

Eyre Square, the Latin Quarter, and Galway’s westend will transform into hubs of activity, buzzing with live performances from local bands, traditional music sessions, and acoustic sets. Each evening from 8pm, the city’s neighbourhoods will resonate with the sounds of summer, offering a perfect backdrop for the festive atmosphere.

Fashion enthusiasts can look forward to pop-up fashion showcases (From 12noon to 3pm) on Monday and Tuesday, hosted by the fashion entrepreneur and stylist Mandy Maher. These on street showcases will highlight the latest trends and styles as racegoers prepare to bring their fashion A-game to Galway. Mandy will shine a spotlight on local Galway retail outlets, encouraging attendees to shop locally and support the city’s boutiques, jewellers, footwear stores, and talented milliners. These will take place in Eyre Square, Cross Street and on the Spanish Arch.

Galway is a city that knows how to entertain, and this year’s race week is no exception. Families can explore award-winning restaurants, enjoy drinks in some of the best pubs in Ireland, and partake in the city’s renowned craic. To make the experience even more convenient, Bus Éireann shuttle buses will provide easy transportation, dropping racegoers in the heart of the city and directly at the Ballybrit racecourse.

Galway’s reputation for exceptional food and drinks will be on full display, with Diageo partnering with local public houses to ensure every pub offers a top-tier experience. Galways award winning restaurants are ready to welcome you for a pre-race lunch to talk through the plan and then back into the city to enjoy innovative culinary creations whilst you chat through the fun of the day.

Speaking at the launch of Galway Summer Vibes Johnny Duggan, Galway City VFI commented “It is another great initiative where the various City Centre areas come together to let people know that the City Centre is open for business and with plenty to see and do, whether you are a Race goer or not. There is such a great array of pubs in Galway, all within walking distance, with lots on across the city in all areas.”

“The Ballybrit Summer Racing Festival brings a huge number of visitors to Galway each year so Fáilte Ireland is really pleased to support the Summer Vibes festival which will help showcase the best that Galway city has to offer. Festivals and events play a key role in helping visitors immerse themselves in a destination’s unique offering. Fáilte Ireland has worked closely with Galway’s business community to help develop an exciting programme of free events that will bring Galway’s streets to life with the city’s renowned arts, culture, and creativity,” said Margaret Jenkins, Fáilte Ireland.

This race week, Galway is undeniably the place to be. Embrace the #GalwaySummerVibes and stay connected through social media accounts: Galway Races Official, Galway’s westend, The Latin Quarter, and Eyre Square Galway. Plan your Galway Races fun and immerse yourself in all the free, exciting activities the city has to offer.

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Kaleidos transforming wooden canvases into dynamic works of art

July 1, 2024

Kaleidos- Emer Whelan art launches new collectionTransforming wooden canvases into dynamic works of art

Emer Whelan, the creative force behind Emer Whelan Art is launching her summer collection ‘Kaleidos’ which marries a lakeside tranquillity with urban vibrancy. At the heart of Emer’s artistic expression lies her innovative use of lasers, transforming wooden canvases into dynamic works of art. The collection of 15 pieces will be launched at The West End Art Collective in Galways westend on 13^th July at 6pm.

Originally from Cahir Pier on Lough Mask but now calling Galway City home, Emer infuses her surroundings into her art, capturing the essence of the lake and the energy of the urban.

Each piece exudes energy and vitality, reflecting Emer’s vision and passion for exploring the boundaries of traditional mediums. With Emer Whelan designs, you embark on a journey where colours dance on wood, breathing life into spaces and lighting the imagination. From her studio in Galway, Emer continues to push the boundaries inviting us to experience the beauty and vibrancy of her creations.

Pieces start from €375 and are available to view on www.emerwhelanart.com

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Case Study: Enhancing accessibility in Galway’s westend

May 15, 2024

Galway’s westend sought to improve accessibility to ensure inclusivity and equal access for everyone. With the support of grant funding from Galway City Council, the community embarked on a project aimed at enhancing accessibility through various initiatives, including the procurement of accessibility ramps, installation of a public defibrillator unit, provision of handrails for additional support, and the creation of inclusive signage. This case study delves into the success and impact of these endeavours.

Objective:

The primary objective of the project was to create a more accessible environment within Galway’s westend, thereby fostering inclusivity and enhancing the quality of life for individuals with disabilities or mobility challenges. The project aimed to achieve this by addressing key barriers to accessibility and promoting awareness of available amenities and facilities.

Initiatives implemented:

Procurement of accessibility ramps:

The grant money facilitated the purchase of additional accessibility ramps to be strategically placed in key locations throughout Galway’s westend. These ramps were designed to provide wheelchair users, individuals with mobility aids, and those with strollers or heavy luggage easier access to buildings and public spaces. By increasing the availability of ramps, the project aimed to remove physical barriers and promote independent mobility.

Installation of a public defibrillator unit:

Recognising the importance of emergency preparedness, a public defibrillator unit was installed in a central location on the canal.

Provision of handrails for additional support:

In collaboration with local businesses, handrails were installed to provide additional support for individuals with mobility impairments. These handrails were strategically positioned in areas where steps or uneven surfaces posed challenges to accessibility. By enhancing stability and support, these handrails promote confidence and independence among individuals with varying mobility needs.

Creation of inclusive signage:

To raise awareness and improve navigation for individuals seeking accessible facilities, inclusive signage was designed and implemented across the westend. These creatively crafted stickers designed by local artist Paul James Kearney , in harmony with the area’s aesthetic, indicate the presence of accessibility ramps within buildings. By incorporating visually appealing design elements, the signage not only serves a functional purpose but also adds a touch of creativity to the urban landscape.

Through strategic planning and collaboration, the grant-funded initiatives have significantly enhanced accessibility within Galway’s westend, making it a more inclusive and welcoming community for all. By addressing physical barriers, promoting awareness, and creatively integrating accessibility features, the project exemplifies the positive impact of community-driven initiatives supported by local authorities.

Galway’s westend serves as a model for other communities striving to create environments that are accessible, safe, and inclusive for everyone.

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Galway’s Westend kicks off 2024 sustainable tourism campaign

March 27, 2024

Walking Tours: Unveiling a journey through Galway’s vibrant cultural hub

Galway’s Westend, the beating heart of Galway City known for its captivating culture, is kicking off their sustainable tourism campaign on foot with their neighbourhood walking tours.

After their inaugural walking tour program which launched in June 2023, the immersive tours are back allowing visitors and locals to delve into the rich tapestry of Galway’s Westend, revealing the hidden gems, unique stories, and vibrant atmosphere that make it a must-visit destination.

Galway’s westend is celebrated for its bohemian charm, artistic flair, and diverse community, making it a focal point of Galway’s cultural scene. Galway’s westend Walking Tours aim to showcase this captivating district, guiding participants through its picturesque streets, unveiling its historical landmarks, and providing an intimate glimpse into the thriving arts, food, and music scene that defines the area.

Led by expert local guides, each Galway’s westend Walking Tour will take participants on a journey of discovery, exploring the district’s rich history, captivating tales, and fascinating anecdotes. From traditional Irish music venues to independent boutiques, award-winning restaurants, and artisanal food markets, visitors will immerse themselves in the unique ambiance that defines Galway’s westend.

The tours will tell the tales of Irish-town (West End) versus the Norman/English town of Galway to being introduced to the home of Lady Gregory’s son, Major Robert Gregory, whose death in January 1918 inspired WB Yeats poem, ‘An Irish Airman foresees his death’. Where now lies The Galway Arts Centre, Galway’s only dedicated art gallery and Aras Na Gael – the Irish language experience with Dance, music, song, conversation, and a bar!

The tours will begin each day on Raven’s Terrace where the great Claddagh connection begins. Tour guides will touch on Pawnbroker, Fish on Friday, Claddagh ring, Claddagh fishing tradition and the Galway Hookers.

Then the connection to maritime history will be the focus of walks along The Eglinton Canal that lead to the University. Tour guides will draw on the Lock gates, bridges, tow-paths and how the Canals connect to Corrib with Water activities from past to present day.

As people step through the neighbourhood, they will be introduced to the socio-cultural fabric through food, people and place and of course nuggets of information like, did you know that the area is home to Galway’s only LGBTQIA+ Bar, Nova on Henry Street?

Back into The Small Crane where the History of the Galway markets, potato, hay, turf, vegetable, pigs, calves were held and now will be told. Right alongside here the stories of prolific Galway author Walter Macken and of Titanic survivor Eugene Daly from Raleigh Row will be highlighted to walkers.

The tours will be available three times daily, at 11am, 3pm and 6pm from Ravens Terrace. Participants will be treated to a captivating journey through the district, lasting approximately 75 minutes. Tickets, €20 + Booking fee can be purchased online through the official Galway’s Westend website or directly at the meeting point.

For more information about Galway’s westend Walking Tours, including ticketing details and the tour schedule, please visit www.galwayswestend.ie.

Join the conversation on social media using the hashtag #GalwaysWestendTours and stay up-to-date with the latest news and updates.

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A Raven’ Street Feast for Galways westend

July 12, 2022

August Bank Holiday Weekend return for community based get together

The Galways westend Street Feastival is back on Sunday 31^st July on Ravens Terrace. The fifth Westend Street Feastival is resuming after a short break* of two years and the ethos and the vibe is that of community, great local food and enjoying time together.

The area which is known for its food, nightlife and café culture is pulling out all the stops with a stellar food and drinks line up as well live music with the addition of a family face painting station.

Ravens Terrace will be pedestrianised from 12 noon and will be transformed into an outdoor dining plaza. The neighbourhood’s commitment to green is to the fore of the festival with a partnership with Walsh Waste ensuring that there is no trace and that all waste created is recycled and composted correctly.

Bring your appetite as the food vendor line up includes, Botown Burgers, Hooked on Henry Street, Murphys Ice Cream, Alainn, Space Cowboys Tacos, Handsome Burger, Ember Firehouse, An Tobar Nua, Tartare, Danny Donuts and Sweet Dreams confectionery. Drinks and the rest will be available from the Salthouse, McGuire’s Daybreak and Gourmet Tart.

The Street Feastival will run from 12 noon until 6pm and is weather dependent of course, it is wheelchair accessible and there will be live music happening throughout the day.

For all things Galways westend check out www.galwayswestend.ie and of course on Social channels.