Win Galway Races Summer Racing Festival Tickets : The countdown is on! The Galway Races Summer Festival returns for 7 unforgettable days from Monday 27th July to Sunday 2nd August 2026.
To mark the return of this great initiative Galway Races have teamed up with Garry Curran on Big Bay Breakfast and with Seán Ó Maoilchiaráin on Slainte! this week. Both Sean and Garry have Flexi Race Tickets to give away each day on their shows.
This years businesses across Galway City and County are being encouraged to showcase their creativity and racing spirit by taking part in the Galway Races Shop Window Competition, a colourful initiative designed to bring the excitement of race week to streets and towns throughout the region.
The competition invites retailers, hospitality venues, offices and businesses of all kinds to create eye-catching race-themed window displays in celebration of the Galway Races Summer Festival. Organisers are calling on businesses to help transform Galway into a vibrant visual celebration of one of Ireland’s most iconic sporting and social events.
Businesses can register from 3 July and are asked to have their displays unveiled by 13 July. Judging will take place on 20 July by Galway Bay FM’s Sean O’Maolchiaráin, with the winning business announced on 22 July.
To thank businesses for their participation, every entrant will receive 10 complimentary admission tickets to the 2026 Galway Races Summer Festival, redeemable on any race day excluding Thursday and Friday.
The overall winner will receive a VIP race day experience for six people, valued at €1,500, featuring premium hospitality and exclusive race day privileges. The prize includes admission to the racecourse, complimentary parking, executive guest badges, a champagne reception on arrival, race cards, a five-course meal, complimentary wine and bar service, afternoon tea, and a reserved table for the day.
Speaking about the initiative, Commercial Marketing Manager of the Galway Races, Olivia Lynch Ward said:
“The Galway Races has always been about community, celebration and bringing people together. We are delighted to invite businesses across Galway to get involved by creating displays that capture the excitement and atmosphere of race week. Whether it’s a simple nod to the races or a spectacular showcase, we look forward to seeing Galway come alive with racing colour and creativity.”
The Galway Races Summer Festival takes place from 27 July to 2 August, attracting thousands of visitors to the region and generating a unique buzz throughout the city and county. The Shop Window Competition offers businesses an opportunity to be part of the festivities while competing for a memorable day at the races.
Businesses interested in taking part can register here. Or for more information they can contact [email protected] or call 091 700100.
The Galway Races Opening Night
Join us for 'The Opening Day’ on Monday 28th July as we have a special treat for our racegoers in front of the Grandstand with a lively colourful musical performance! First race of seven races is off at 3.55pm.
Tuesday has been reimagined and revitalised as Tribes Tuesday, a celebration of community spirit and local pride. This year, clubs and teams from across Galway are invited to bring their tribe to Ballybrit, uniting supporters, families, and friends to create an atmosphere buzzing with friendly rivalry.
Galway Plate Day
Wednesday at Ballybrit is one of the most anticipated days of the entire festival, combining top‑class racing with a vibrant social atmosphere. As crowds gather for the iconic Tote Galway Plate, there’s a real sense of history and excitement in the air, marking this as a standout moment in the summer racing calendar.
Ladies Day
Widely renowned as ‘Ladies Day’ at the Galway Festival, Thursday combines the very best in racing and fashion for the pinnacle of the summer racing calendar.
Friday's Most Stylish
Friday brings a fresh burst of energy to Ballybrit as style takes centre stage for Friday’s Most Stylish, hosted in partnership with Athlone Towncentre. It’s a day where racegoers showcase their individuality, confidence, and creativity, adding vibrant flair to the festival as fashion lovers arrive dressed to impress ahead of the Bank Holiday Weekend.
The Weekender
Saturday at Ballybrit is all about celebration as the August Bank Holiday Weekend comes alive and the festival hits full flight. Known as The Weekender, it draws huge crowds eager to soak up the atmosphere, enjoy great racing, and make the most of one of the biggest days of the summer.
Mad Hatters Competition
The best line-up yet for young racing fans. A day filled with colour, entertainment and fun for all the family. Join in the hugely popular 'Mad Hatters Day' competition with fantastic prizes on offer.
