The 2023 Galway Garden Festival will take place on weekend of 1st -2nd July, at Claregalway Castle.
This unique and charming event has something for all. A wonderful gathering of Ireland’s best, most rare and special plant traders, expert speakers, artisan food and craft producers, as well as a host of musical entertainment and open-air performance.
Entertainment includes a delightful new show by ‘Yer Man’s Puppets’ twice each day. In between, enjoy the zany performances of Fanzini ‘s captivating Circus. Nemo the Magician will be up to his usual tricks throughout the weekend. The Medieval Armed Combat Ireland team will be there to bring history to life. On Sunday Sir Babosa and Isabeau will present ‘A Snail’s Tale’ – an unforgettable story of imaginary creatures once found only in monkish doodles.
Music programme includes the Silver Moon Jazz Band, Galway’s much loved St Patrick’s Brass Band, the Barceló Brothers, Galway Baytones, the Claregalway Community Choir and on Saturday there will be a special guest appearance by Jackie Daly and Eileen O’Brien.
The Botanic Art Exhibition is a well-established attraction at the festival featuring the work of many of Irelands best known Artists; many of the paintings are for sale, along with limited edition prints. This exhibition will be launched at 7pm on Friday, June 30 by well-known abstract artist Tory Irvine and will continue throughout Summer.
Food and Craft of the highest quality are a major part of this eclectic Festival. Freshly cooked foods will available from Handsome Burger, Castle Kitchen, Ember Firehouse, and more. Handmade crafts and Artisan foods are available and include the best of Galway County Councils ‘Made in Galway’ group.
Guest Speakers on Saturday will include the well-known organic gardener, journalist and broadcaster Kitty Scully, who will present an informative and inspirational talk – ‘The Abundant Low-Impact Kitchen Garden’.
Architect and Author, Professor Finola O’Kane, will discuss the history and development of the Irish Country House Garden.
Dr Dermot O’Flynn, London based GP will offer insight and advice on ‘Enhancing your Healthspan’
On Sunday, Award-winning plantsman, Carl Wright, will present ‘Creating a garden in the West of Ireland – a visit to Caher Bridge’
Botanist and educator, Dr Micheline Sheehy Skeffington, will tell the extraordinary story of ‘The Arbutus’.
Tanguy de Toulgoet - Environmentalist, gardener and beekeeper came from France to Co Laois with his wife, Isobelle 25 years ago and created the famous Dunmore Country School and Garden. He will discuss innovative French gardening and beekeeping techniques that have stood the test of time in Durrow.
The 2023 Galway Garden Festival takes place between 11am and 6pm on Sat/Sunday, July 1-2 at Claregalway Castle. Entry €10 and children free; gate profits to CBM Ireland (Christian Blind Mission ). Free parking close-by and a free bus courtesy of Bus Eireann - runs regularly to and from Ceannt Station in Galway City. So come to Claregalway for a very special weekend!. Thank you Galway County Council for supporting this event.
For further info and programme announcements, see www.galwaygardenfestival.com
