Things to do in Galway (This Halloween) especially back the west

In Autumn, Galway’s westend transforms into one of the most atmospheric places in the city. With its independent shops, great bars + restaurants, creative energy and community spirit, there’s no better time to wander through the neighbourhood and enjoy all that’s happening this season.

This October, the Westend once again embraces the magic of Samhain with The Westend Windows of Samhain, a celebration of art, light and imagination. Local artists have come together to create unique window displays that capture the spirit of Halloween in Galway – mysterious, playful and full of character. Be sure to pop into Just Art It on Dominick Street to hear about and experience their beautiful window creation, where art and storytelling meet in a truly local way.

Four people kayak on a calm river bordered by lush greenery and colorful houses under a clear blue sky. The sunlight casts bright reflections on the water. A group of people stand and sit on a grassy area beside a stone wall near water, with trees in the background and a modern building to the left, enjoying a sunny day. Two bicycles are parked on a stone walkway beside a canal lined with colorful buildings and trees, with people rowing boats on the water under a clear blue sky. A modern house with large windows stands behind a stone wall next to a canal, with people sitting and walking along the grassy path beside the water under a clear blue sky. Four people kayak along a narrow river bordered by a stone wall and lush green trees, with a modern building and people standing above on the left. The sky is clear and blue. A storefront labeled “SOUNDTRACK & PODCAST” features large windows, a vintage sewing machine poster inside, and a typewriter displayed in the right window. Warm lighting creates a cozy interior atmosphere. A display window shows an old computer, a yellow-framed mirror, and a glowing lamp, with reflective text that reads WINDOW STORIES Audiovisual Artwork by Elena Santos and information about the project. A woman wearing glasses, a long black quilted vest, jeans, and red shoes stands smiling at the entrance of a studio called Soundtrack & Podcast. The storefront has large glass windows with posters and branding. A large realistic painting of a vintage sewing machine is displayed in a window, partially obscuring the view of a warmly lit interior with orange walls and framed items. Reflections of buildings are visible in the window glass. A storefront at night displays a vintage telephone mural in the left window, a black door with signage in the center, and an old typewriter in the right window. The interior is warmly lit.

One of Galway’s most anticipated events, the Macnas Parade, will pass through the Westend on Saturday 26 October, filling the streets with colour, music and incredible spectacle. It’s the perfect opportunity to experience the neighbourhood at its liveliest – with families, visitors and locals all coming together to celebrate the creativity Galway is known for.

If you’re looking for things to do in Galway this Halloween, the Westend has you covered. Massimo and The Blue Note are hosting a full line-up of events throughout the week, including pop-up markets featuring local makers, themed table quizzes, and guest DJs to keep the energy going late into the night. Whether you’re after a relaxed evening with friends, a night of dancing, or a browse through local crafts and creations, there’s something for everyone.

So wrap up warm, grab a coffee or a pint of something seasonal, and take a stroll through Galway’s westend this autumn. Between the glowing windows, the buzz of the bars, and the city’s unmistakable Halloween spirit.

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