Galway Races Summer Festival transforms Galway, Ireland each late July into early August, celebrating Irish summer racing culture with a week of high-stakes thoroughbred racing and big social energy at Ballybrit Racecourse. Come for marquee moments like the Galway Plate, the Galway Hurdle, and glitzy Ladies Day fashion, then stay for the buzzing grandstands, bookmaker drama, and after-hours city atmosphere that spills into pubs and streets. It’s equal parts sport and spectacle—Galway at full throttle.
DATES & TIMES
• Summer Festival 2026: Mon 27 July – Sun 2 August 2026. Feature days include Galway Plate (Wed 29 July), Galway Hurdle & Ladies Day (Thu 30 July), Friday’s Most Stylish (Fri 31 July), and Family Fun Day (Sun 2 Aug). See daily schedule & first race times.
LOCATION
• Ballybrit Racecourse, Galway (H91 V654). Open in Google Maps · Getting there.
TICKETS & ENTRY
• Book online: Admission, hospitality and packages available. Buy tickets · Grandstand reserved seats & packages.
• Families: Children 17 & under go free with a parent/guardian. FAQ.
GOOD TO KNOW
• Dress code: No formal code; smart‑casual works well. Thursday is Ladies Day. Dress guidance.
• Transport: During the festival, shuttle buses typically run from Eyre Square → Racecourse with returns after racing; check the week’s timetable. Bus & travel info.
• Parking: Free parking at Ballybrit; follow event signage. Parking note.
• Accessibility: Viewing stands and accessible WCs available; see venue guidance. Accessibility details.