Adult
Must be aged 18 or over*
- On the Day
- €35
- Pay in Advance
- €30
The Opening Day
Opening Night
Monday 26th July 2027
- Turnstiles Open
- 2.30pm
- First Race
- 5.10pm
- Last Race
- 8.20pm
- No. of Races
- 7
The Opening Day
Monday signals the start of the Galway Races Summer Festival, and there’s no mistaking the surge of excitement that comes with it. The opening night is always a favourite with the local Galway crowd, who return year after year to celebrate tradition, connection, and the magic of being back on course again. It’s the moment the city comes alive, setting the tone for an unforgettable week ahead.
The feature race of the evening, The Connacht Hotel (QR) Handicap, brings a thrilling sporting highlight to the heart of the action. Paired with live music and entertainment throughout the day, the atmosphere builds steadily as racegoers gather, reconnect, and settle in for the first great contest of the festival.
Adding to the sense of occasion, the Galway Tenors deliver a special opening performance that captures the spirit of Galway culture, warm, spirited, and rooted in heritage. With a fun, relaxed, family‑friendly vibe running through the evening, Opening Night is all about tradition, shared memories, and that unmistakable buzz that marks the beginning of something special.
Admission Prices
Buy TicketsSenior Citizens
- On the Day
- €30
- Pay in Advance
- €25
18-24
Must be aged between 18 & 24 (I.D. Required)**
- On the Day
- €30
- Pay in Advance
- €25
Children 17 & Under
Must be accompanied by Parent
- On the Day
- FREE
- Pay in Advance
- –
Grandstand Reserved Seat
- On the Day
- €30
- Pay in Advance
- €25
Parade Ring Lounge
- On the Day
- €40
- Pay in Advance
- €35
Admissions Policy
For full policy regarding Children 17 & Under and age verification policy please Click Here
*Adult Tickets – May only be used by persons aged 18 or over, Children 17 & Under will not be admitted on this ticket.
** 18-24 Admission – May only be used by persons aged between 18 & 24 and hold a valid I.D. Children 17 & Under will not be admitted on this ticket.
***Children 17 & Under – Must be accompanied by Parent. Please Note Children 17 & Under will not be admitted with persons over 18 years who are not their Parent.
Racecard
5.10pm
The Galmont Hotel & Galway Bay Novice Hurdle
5.40pm
The EASYFIX Iggy Daly Handicap Hurdle
6.10pm
The Eventus Irish EBF (C&G) Maiden
6.40pm
Feature race The Connacht Hotel (Q.R.) Handicap
7.15pm
The Clayton Hotel Galway Handicap
7.50pm
The Grá Chocolates Handicap
8.20pm
The Monami Construction Flat Race
Our Partners
Hospitality for the Summer Festival
From panoramic views with wonderful dining experiences, to intimate settings with close friends, the Galway Races Summer Festival offers you a variety of packages.
