There’s something lovely about Galway in February. The crowds have quietened, the air is fresh, and there’s a cosy buzz around town that makes you want to wrap up warm and head out exploring. With the February Bank Holiday giving us all a little breathing space, it’s the perfect excuse to slow down and enjoy what Galway does best, great food, music around every corner, and a warm welcome wherever you go. Whether you’re planning a family trip, a weekend with friends, or just fancy a change of scenery, Galway has plenty to offer this time of year.
Corrib Oil Galway International Rally
One of the highlights of the February Bank Holiday weekend in Galway is the Corrib Oil Galway International Rally, a thrilling motorsport event that gets engines revving and hearts racing across the region. It’s one of the most exciting and far‑travelled rallies on the Irish motorsport calendar, with drivers and teams from around Ireland, the UK and further afield taking part in a series of competitive stages on closed roads through scenic parts of Galway. The rally traditionally kicks off with a ceremonial start in Eyre Square, and with stages stretching from Headford to Athenry and beyond, it’s a brilliant spectacle for families and fans alike.
Tonnta Irish Language Festival
If you’re looking for something the whole family can enjoy over the bank holiday, the Tonnta Festival has plenty of lovely options. Running from January 29th to February 1st, it brings a real sense of warmth and community to Galway, and many of the events are perfect for kids. There’s a special Lá na bPáistí (Children’s Day) with face-painting, games, workshops and even a little disco. Craft workshops inspired by St Brigid are another highlight, where children (and grown-ups!) can get creative with straw crafts and storytelling. Cosy bilingual film screenings, like Puffin Rock and Song of the Sea, make for a lovely break from the weather, and throughout the weekend, local venues host community céilís, music sessions, and hands-on cultural events that welcome every age and language level. Whether your little ones are fluent in Irish or just picking up a few words, Tonnta offers a genuinely heartwarming way to spend time together and celebrate Galway’s unique culture.
Celebrate St. Brigids Day
St. Brigid’s Day, or Lá Fhéile Bríde, has taken on new life in recent years, especially here in Galway, where the spirit of community and creativity shines so brightly. Falling at the start of February, it marks the traditional beginning of spring, a time of renewal, hope, and light. Across the city, you’ll find gentle, meaningful ways to celebrate, from Brigid’s cross-making workshops and art installations to music, poetry, and events honouring the strength and creativity of Irish women. Galway offers a lovely space to pause and reconnect with the spirit of Brigid — one of care, inspiration and renewal.
Galway Women’s Mini Marathon
Another brilliant way to mark the February Bank Holiday here in Galway is by taking part in (or cheering on!) the Galway Women’s Mini Marathon. This women‑only 10 km run, jog or walk takes place on Monday 2 February 2026 in nearby Craughwell and is a lovely way for women of all ages and abilities to get moving, celebrate the day, and enjoy a bit of fresh air together. The course winds through charming countryside, even passing Europe’s largest turlough, and there’s a great sense of camaraderie as everyone crosses the line, each finishing with a beanie hat, a medal and a sense of achievement. It’s a heartwarming tradition that brings the community together and embraces fitness and fun on St Brigid’s Bank Holiday.
Why stay at the Connacht Hotel?
With so much happening in Galway over the February Bank Holiday, The Connacht Hotel is the ideal place to base yourself — whether you're here for the rally, the Tonnta Festival, a family getaway, or the Women's Mini Marathon. Our spacious rooms and suites cater for everyone and with a leisure centre, kids’ club, bar, restaurant, and plenty of cosy corners, you’ll feel right at home. Located just minutes from the city centre, with free parking and excellent transport links, we make it easy to explore all that Galway has to offer and come back to comfort when the day’s adventures are done.
