Galway’s longest-standing and most dynamic town twinning, with the Breton city of Lorient, will celebrate its 50th anniversary in 2025. A vibrant lineup of events is planned to mark this milestone, bringing together the people of both cities in a true celebration of their shared Celtic heritage.
Running from March to August, the golden anniversary will be a highlight of Galway’s cultural calendar. Festivities will include music concerts, dance workshops, sporting events, and a major maritime display showcasing the seafaring traditions of both cities. Whisky enthusiasts can also look forward to a special treat as part of the celebrations.
The Galway-Lorient Twinning agreement was first initiated in 1974 and officially formalized in 1975. It was driven by Michael D. Higgins, then a member of Galway Corporation and now Uachtarán na hÉireann, alongside Jean-Yves Le Drian, a Breton councillor who later held ministerial positions in the French government.
While many town twinnings operate mainly at a governmental level, Galway and Lorient’s partnership has thrived through deep-rooted public engagement. Their shared Celtic identity has fostered strong cultural and sporting connections, with Galway musicians performing regularly at the InterCeltique Festival—one of Europe’s most prestigious folk and traditional music gatherings. The partnership has also seen exchanges in sports, particularly rugby and Gaelic Games, with France and Brittany developing their own GAA teams for both men and women.
Catherine Gagneux, French Honorary Consul in Galway and head of the Galway-Lorient Twinning Committee, highlights the personal connections that have shaped this relationship over the years.
“Long and lasting friendships have been formed over the last 50 years,” she said. “The one between Uachtarán Michael D. Higgins and Jean-Yves Le Drian is often mentioned, but many others exist and continue to develop. Since the sailing trip in 2019 and more recently through connections with Galway Bohemians Soccer Club and music group Galvian Way, the spirit of twinning is alive and thriving. It’s about people coming together, sharing cultures, and growing as communities.”
The Galway-Lorient Twinning Committee, comprised of dedicated members Seamus Keady, Marian Ní Chonghaile, Julie Ann de Brún, Isbeal Nic Aoidh, Johnny Shorten, and William Cahill, plays a key role in uniting the communities through various initiatives and events.
To commemorate this milestone, Ms. Gagneux is inviting the Galway public to share photographs, memorabilia, and personal stories from past twinning events. These contributions will be displayed throughout the anniversary celebrations, offering a glimpse into the friendships and connections fostered over the years.
“The Galway-Lorient twinning is the first and oldest between France and Ireland,” said Ms. Gagneux. “This 50th anniversary is a momentous occasion to honor those who have contributed to it while exploring new ways to strengthen our cultural exchange.”
If you have memories, photos, or stories from the last 50 years of the Galway-Lorient Twinning, you can share them by emailing galwaylorienttwinning@gmail.com.
Stay updated on the latest developments at Galway-lorient.eu and follow the celebrations on social media.
