Galway is traditionally a base for the excellence of culture. It is expanding faster than any other European city. It has a vibrant atmosphere and boasts a university. The architecture is medieval with winding streets, canals and squares. Its population is 75,000 and it is situated next to the River Corrib and surrounded by Galway Bay. From the bay one can see the mighty Atlantic Ocean.

It is the main festival of Irish and international arts in Ireland and organizers liaise with companies and artistes all over the globe to secure the commissioning and production of the work involved.

More than 100,000 people come to see the street entertainment, the musicians, to enjoy the visual arts and hundreds of acts and performances during two weeks of a spectacular spectacle.

During 2010 the festival will be staged from 12th - 25th July and all are welcome to enjoy the celebration.

History

The first festival took place in the year 1978 and has links with artistes and companies throughout the globe. It has international acts including films, dancing, comedy acts literature and music. Hundreds of entertainers perform annually and is vital to the economy, social structure and the culture of this part of Ireland. It is renowned as the main festival of the arts in Ireland and is important as a venue for international as well as Irish arts.