Let’s Do It Global have unveiled ambitious plans for the final leg of the 2012 Volvo Ocean Race which is expected to cost €4.5 million.
With events and exhibitions spanning across the city, the event will be the biggest festival to take place in Galway.
Taking advantage of the dates on which the festival falls, Let’s Do It Global is planning the biggest fourth of July celebration in Europe.
Chairman John Killeen informed councillors that the American Embassy had agreed to sponsor the event. He said a spectacular train of American colours would travel from Dublin to Galway and parade throughout the city as part of the event.
Killeen also indicated that Tánaiste Eamon Gilmore had promised a high profile American politician to visit during the celebrations. Councillors made attempts to guess who the high profile figure may be, with some even suggesting Barrack Obama due to the US president’s Irish ties.
The Let’s Do It Global chairman stressed the importance and scale of corporate and political figures that will be visiting the city.
To facilitate these visitors a dedicated conference centre will offer seminars, conferences, and business to business events for the many decision makers travelling from around the world.
“Culture is a serious part of what we are doing,” said John Killeen, connecting the importance of involving cultures from countries around the world during the festival and strengthening both cultural and diplomatic ties.
Extending a hand of friendship to the Arab world, the group is involved in a cultural exchange with Abu Dhabi. Galway will send a hooker to Abu Dhabi, while a dhow - a traditional Abu Dhabian boat - will come to Galway to race with hookers in Galway Bay during the boating festival.
Along with a range of cultural and business events, there will be a focus on family events, free entertainment, music, dance, and food.
