This is Galway - November/December Edition - Issue #5

NOV - DEC // FREE // THISISGALWAY.IE

ISSUE # 5

YOUR WEEKEND PLANS ARE HERE!

WHAT’S INSIDE 4-6

SON RISING // From Clare to Dublin, Susan O’Neill is making waves in the music scene

8-11

SHARING PLATES // Perfect for enjoying a glass of wine with friends

12-13

ARTY ARTY APPLE TARTY // Kai welcomes local artists to the table

15-18

SHOP LOCAL // Support Galway’s vibrant community by shopping local

20-21

GALWAY MARKETS // Plenty of fun markets this time of year in Galway

22-24

COSY DRINKING SPOTS // Shelter in from the cold at these warm and friendly pubs

25-26

FRESH FACES, NEW PLACES // Welcoming new business to the streets of Galway

27-31

WHAT’S ON // Plan your social calendar with music, theatre and more

WHO WE ARE...

Art Direction & Design Martin Browne info@thisisgalway.ie Cover image by Boyd Challenger

Photography Boyd Challenger boyd@thisisgalway.ie

Editor Caitlin Foley caitlin@thisisgalway.ie

Advertising Queries Maxi Browne maxi@thisisgalway.ie Ian Burke ian@thisisgalway.ie

Photography by Boyd Challenger

FEATURE

t’s been all planes, trains and automobiles… and the occasional ferry.

When Hot Press chose Clare-born singer-songwriter Susan O’Neill as their ‘Hot for 2017’ pick at the beginning of this year, they certainly didn’t get it wrong.

By any standard, the stunningly beautiful, husky-voiced, 27-year-old – who goes by the acronymic moniker SON – has been insanely busy.

“I sing with Propeller Palms and King Kong Company as well as doing my solo stuff,” she explains. “It means there’s never a dull moment. The last few months have seen me through two stints in New York, a few tours around Europe – including Denmark, the Netherlands and Germany – and loads of gigs around Ireland and the UK. I had a particularly busy summer with King Kong Company, playing festivals like Body & Soul, Electric Picnic and Altersonic. We also played Glastonbury, which was a tick off my bucket list.”

SON released her critically acclaimed debut album, Found Myself Lost, at the end of 2016. A pitch-perfect blend of pop, rock and folk, the reviews drew favorable comparisons with the likes of Alanis Morissette, Sheryl Crowe and Tori Amos. More than one critic noted that her gravelly vocals sounded uncannily Joplin-esque.

More than one critic noted that her gravelly vocals sounded uncannily Joplin-esque.

“The album is a collection of songs portraying moments of the journey from early adolescence into adulthood. I feel the eight years it took to complete was much too long, but the learning process was invaluable. I was much too concerned about what people might say. Would the reviews slate me? Could I handle it? Would I be considered an extrovert of sorts? I am quite private about certain aspects of my life, and putting a song out there can leave one feeling unbearably vulnerable unless mentally prepared…”

She laughs happily. “Anyway the worrying was for nothing, putting it out there made me stronger, and I can safely say it will be significantly less time before my next release.”

It wasn’t just the critics who were wowed by SON. When she covered U2’s ‘Exit’ for hotpress.com around the time of the 30th anniversary of The Joshua Tree, no less an authority than Bono himself was so blown away that he contacted her personally to declare himself a fan.

“Bono is a gentleman,” she smiles. “He gave encouragement to an artist at the beginning of their journey. Perhaps he knows the extent of what the acknowledgement meant to me, maybe he does not, but either way I was massively grateful and chuffed. Sometimes pursuit of a dream can be a lonely journey.

Little nudges of reassurance can make such a massive difference.”

Incredibly versatile musically, SON really isn’t easy to pigeonhole. Her solo material is one thing, but with Propeller Palms she sings country, blues and rock ‘n’ roll.

Her electrifying performances with dance collective King Kong Company, meanwhile, are at the other end of the scale.

“I started singing with King Kong Company over four years ago,” she recalls. “I thought they were amazing people, refreshingly sound, open and funny. Admittedly, their type of music was not something I had much experience in at the time, but learning to sing in a different style and manner is one of the coolest things I have gotten to do. It’s been such a blast. This year has been the busiest ever touring with them, and I hope it continues!”

Last August she confounded expectations yet again when she totally stole the show at the Fleadh Cheoil in her hometown of Ennis with a stunning rendition of Ralph McTell’s ‘Long Way From Clare To Here’. She performed the song for Fleadh TV, backed by fellow Clare woman Sharon Shannon and her band.

“Sharon really is a legend!” she enthuses. “She is always so supportive, and I’m massively grateful to her for giving me the chance to sing with her. Her band are also such a cool bunch of lads to play with, and very funny to hang out with. Absolutely nothing beats enjoying the company of good people – on and off the stage.”

It had been quite a while since she’d played a hometown gig. She left Clare after her Leaving Cert and moved to Waterford to study music at WIT. After a few years living in the sunny southeast, she relocated to Dublin in 2015.

“It had been much too long since I had played Ennis. My first-ever residency gigs starting out were in Cruises over six years ago, but I’d become disconnected from the scene on account of all the travelling. It was really so exciting for me to go back and play in the town again. Especially in the marketplace where the Fleadh TV gig was filmed.

(Continued on page .6)

PAGE.5.

Bono himself was so blown away that he contacted her personally to declare himself a fan.

Assuming I was totally forgotten, I was really blown away by the reception and love I received from the Fleadh audience.”

SON will be playing a solo show in Monroe’s this month, and returning to Galway in December for a King Kong Company gig in the Roisin Dubh. She’s no stranger to the city.

“I love Galway. I’ve lots of childhood memories of shopping here with my mother and sister. I always remember that it had great buskers. When I was a bit older, I discovered that it also had a really vibrant nightlife and music scene.

I was actually here during the summer. A Propeller Palms song was used in a movie called Writing Home, and we all went to the premiere at the Film Fleadh. I was delighted to see the city thriving as much as it ever was.” (*) SON plays Monroe’s Live on November 17th.

King Kong Company play the Roisin Dubh on December 2nd.

Found Myself Lost is available on CD Baby.

SHARING PLATES

perfect for enjoying a glass of wine with friends...

FOOD

EAT: SHARING PLATES

COSY UP TO A FRIEND...

November and December are a great time for catching up with old friends as everyone heads home for the holidays, and there’s no meal more social than a sharing plate! Enjoy a glass of wine, delicious food and great company at any of these Galway spots.

Upstairs at McCambridge’s Located above the popular artisan grocer, Upstairs @ McCambridge’s is a bright, cheerful restaurant serving breakfast and lunch. They offer a seafood platter with options like Atlantic smoked salmon and peppered mackerel, a Veggie Mediterranean-inspired platter, and other tasty options.

36-40 Shop Street, Galway // +353(0)91 562 259

Armorica This cosy, family-friendly restaurant in the village of Oranmore puts a focus on local, organic food. They offer five -- yes, five -- different sharing platters to choose from, including different combinations of Irish cured meat, cheese, blinis, house-made pickles, and different kinds of jam. Paired with a wine from their extensive collection, it doesn’t get any better!

Main Street, Oranmore, Galway // +353(0)91 388 343

Deli la Tasca This Spanish inspired restaurant in Galway’s Westend is all about the sharing. Their menu is made up primarily of tapas, but they also have some delicious sharing platters.

Choose from an artisanal Spanish cheeseboard, a traditional Spanish cured meat board, or a barbecued chorizo board.

1 Upper Dominick Street, Galway’s Westend // +353(0)85 108 2115

PAGE.9.

FOOD West Restaurant This elegant restaurant has won plenty of awards for their wine experience, so make sure to take advantage of that! They put a strong focus on seasonal, local produce to showcase the best of the west of Ireland. In keeping with that philosophy, their cheese boards are sourced from places like the Aran Islands and West Cork. Ask for the wine and cheese pairing, and it’s nearly heaven!

Upstairs at The Twelve, Barna Coast Road, Galway // +353(0)91 597 000

Sheridan’s Cheesemongers This place is all about delicious cheese, if the name didn’t give it away.

Saturday is a perfect time to visit, with the buzz of the farmer’s market just outside in the churchyard. There’s seating upstairs, where you can enjoy a wide selection of farmhouse cheese and veg, Irish and European charcuterie, and a lovely variety of imported wine.

Church Yard Street, Galway // +353(0)91 564 829

Loam This Michelin-star restaurant is chic, warm and welcoming, and makes the perfect place to sit down with friends and enjoy some beautiful food. Their local charcuterie and cheese boards change daily, and include tasty favourites like air-dried Connemara lamb, Killeen’s cheese from Galway, young buck blue cheese from County Down, and other Irish selections!

Geata Na Cathrach, Farigreen Road, Galway // +353(0)91 569 727

Il Vicolo This gorgeous Italian restaurant combines the best of rustic elegance with comfort. Perched right over the River Corrib, you’d be hard pressed to find a lovelier location! Il Vicolo’s antipasti sharing boards showcase a range of Italian cheeses, Sicilian olives, and artisan charcuterie. Enjoyed with views of river and a glass of wine, there’s no better way to spend an evening.

The Bridge Mills, Bridge Street, Galway // +353(0)91 530 515

Photo by: Boyd Challenger

FOOD

Sharing is caring Dela The perfect spot for a romantic dinner for two, or a catch-up with friends.

This lovely restaurant is filled with fairy lights and comfortable seating, and their sharing boards are just the thing to go for! Choose from cheese, charcuterie, or seafood, and a range of great wine.

51 Lower Dominick Street, Galway // +353(0)91 449 252

Cava Bodega You’ll find the best of Spanish tapas and Spanish wine at Cava! The restaurant itself is over two floors, and feels very intimate and cosy. Tapas are made for sharing, so go wild with their massive menu.

1 Middle Street, Galway’s Latin Quarter // +353(0)91 539 884

PAGE.11.

Arty Arty Apple Tarty

We love this new collaboration from Kai Restaurant on Sea Road.

Their “Gaway Artist in Residence” program celebrates local heroes along with local artists -- and who better to start with than Galway’s Westend legend, Ernie Deacy of Ernie’s Fruit & Veg on Sea Road?

Here, Artist in Residence Ciara Coogan (Cicoillustrates) has illustrated an apple tart recipe from Kai, which is of course made with Ernie’s delicious apples. Kai’s apple tart is a firm favourite and we have a feeling it’s down to those apples…

This new Irish sock company, based in Galway, is having the craic from head to toe with brightly coloured, often punny socks. They’re made of 100% brushed cotton and are a welcome combination of function and fashion. And who doesn’t want to wear a bit of Galway?

You can check out more amazement from Irish Socksciety at IrishSocksciety.com

The design has been printed on tea towels, which are on sale at Kai Restaurant, so you can always have the recipe close at hand -- as well as Ernie’ssmile!

This is the first year Kai is hosting an artist in residence, and it comes from a desire to celebrate the local community through food and art. Kai showcase the best of local, seasonal produce in their shop and they wanted to expand that through art!

The second artist in residence is Irish Socksciety who have created the Kai sock, so now you can wear Sea Road on your feet!

Upcoming, they’ll be introducing Irish Socksciety who have created the “Kai sock”... Sounds fun, and comfy!

FEATURE

PAGE.13.

Shop Local E

ven if we don’t always realise it, local and independent businesses add so much to a city’s culture.

In Galway, the events that we’ve all come to love -- big holiday events, like October’s Macnas parade and the gorgeous ceiling of Christmas lights -- wouldn’t be possible without the financial support and dedication of local shops that care about our community. Behind the scenes, they also support local charities, sports clubs, summer jobs, and transition year placements. They give our city the friendly, personal charm we’re known for world-wide!

So why not give a little back this year? Most local businesses rely on the Christmas period to stay open. All it takes from us is the decision to spend at a local shop, instead of a behemoth like Amazon. In return, you’ll get a more personal service, better quality, and the great feeling that you’ve helped support Galway’s community. It’s an easy decision, really! So where can you poke your nose into this year? Here are some of our recommendations, for everyone on your Christmas list.

PAGE.15.

Thomas Dillon’s Claddagh Gold For anyone with a strong sentimental tie to Galway, what could be better than an original Claddagh ring? Thomas Dillon are the oldest makers of the Claddagh ring, and their gifts are completely authentic and high-quality.

1 Quay Street, Galway City // +353(0)91 566 365

Mishnóc Purveyors of high-quality Italian leather, Mishnoc bring beautiful bags, wallets, and more to Galway. Their handmade belts too come with a lifetime guarantee and are made in Galway!

Abbeygate St Lower, Galway City Centre // +353(0)91 563 859

Frances’ Soap Shop Treat someone to a relaxing spa at home! Cold-pressed oil, organic soap and more await. Designed a customised Christmas gift, beautifully wrapped for someone who will really appreciate it.

Corbett Court, Williamsgate Street, Galway City // +353(0)91 561 960

Lanidor This chic European label has landed in Ireland for the first time, brought here by an ambitious Galway businesswoman. The shop features all the brand’s gorgeous prints, classic designs, handbags and accessories -- all things any lovely lady would love to see under the tree.

30 Eyre Street, Galway City // +353(0)91 568 968

Cloon Keen Atelier This beautiful, modern perfumery specialises in unique, small-batch perfumes and handmade candles. The shop itself is gorgeous, reflecting the high-quality craftsmanship that comes with their products. If you’re looking to really treat someone special, this is the place.

21A High St, Galway’s Latin Quarter // +353(0)91 565 736

Louis Copeland & Sons Here’s a handsome range of menswear, from suits and ties to wallets, hats, and scarves. Go for more than just socks and jocks this year and get the man in your life something he’ll really look good in, with great quality that will last.

Merchants Road, Galway City // +353 (0)91 532 987

McCarthy’s Jewellery This family-run business stocks a beautiful range of international and Irish designer jewellery, from big statement pieces to diamonds and delicate, classic designs. Each piece is hand-picked and offered at an affordable price.

8 Shop Street, Galway City // +353(0)91 568 643

Standún There’s really something for everyone here. Lovely clothing for women, men and children, as well as pottery, crystal, and jewellery and more; you could nearly check off everyone on your list in one go! Plus, enjoy a hot drink and a treat while you shop in their cafe.

Connemara Coast Road, Spiddal // +353(0)91 553 108

Q23 Menswear This family-run business is located just off Eyre Square, to make your shopping easy. They’ve got plenty of casual and formalwear for lads that like their fashion, and plenty of gift ideas if you’re shopping for a special man in your life!

2 Rosemary Avenue, Galway City // +353(0)91 567 854

DC Store As the only stockists of the urban streetwear brand DC, this shop is an obvious choice for men, women, teens and kids who skate (or just like the style.) They have cool, functional clothing, skate hardware and plenty more inside.

3 Cross Street Lower, Galway’s Latin Quarter // +353(0)91 534 226

SHOP

Shop Local _

Change Lingerie

Galway Crafts & Collectibles

Treat the lady in your life to something special.

They have gorgeous sets, pyjamas, dressing gowns and lingerie, usually with great deals to match.

Don’t be afraid to ask for advice… Or go for a gift card!

This little shop is full of collectibles, antiques, vintage clothing and unique home decor. For those on your list that are hard to shop for, Crafts & Collectibles might have just what you’re looking for!

11 Eglinton Street, Galway City // +353(0)91 449 694

Corbett Court, Williamsgate Street // +353(0)86 241 1155

Sub-City Comics

McCambridge’s of Galway

Auntie Nellie’s

This little shop is absolutely packed with comic books, board games, card decks, action figures and other fun merchandise from your favourite shows, movies, and comics. For any fans on your list, you’ll find something perfect here.

Nothing spells Christmastime in Galway like McCambridge’s gorgeous hampers! They’re stuffed full of Irish-made products in a range of collections, from wine and cheese to after-dinner chocolates and plenty more.

This old-fashioned sweet shop is the perfect place to load up on stocking stuffers. Just stepping inside is a treat, where every wall is lined with pots of jellies, chocolates, and nostalgic candies!

Corbett Court, Williamsgate Street // +353(0)91 565 994

38-39 Shop Street, Galway City // +353(0)91 562 259

10 High Street, Galway’s Latin Quarter // +353(0)91 564 894

PAGE.18.

Markets

Galway will have no shortage of markets this Christmas season. Local arts and crafters, food stalls, vintage clothing, Christmas markets and more food will be making regular appearances!

Galway Christmas Market Every year, the Christmas Market brings good tidings and cheer to Eyre Square, with fun Christmas displays, a ferris wheel, and of course Christmas stalls! Mini donuts and funnel cakes, Christmas ornaments and knitted hats are always popular.

From November 17 // Eyre Square

Local Food and Craft Gift Market Every year, “Made in Galway” puts on an amazing indoor market at the Black Box Theatre. They welcome crafters, artisan food producers, foragers, distillers, chocolatiers and more from all over Galway County, with dozens of stalls showcasing Galway’s amazing talent. Definitely worth an hour, and all your money.

Just saying!

25 and 26 November // Black Box Theatre

SHOP

PAGE.21.

Tiny Traders Market

Galway Market

This new market is the first of its kind in Galway’s Westend. Come hungry, because there are more delicious food options than you probably have room for! They also have artisan groceries to take home, local crafts and plenty more to peruse and take home with you.

This weekend market is an absolute must on any weekend spent in Galway. Highlights include the fresh veg on Saturdays from Galway farms, Boychik’s freshly fried donuts, and local honey, pottery, cheese and plenty more.

Every Saturday // 11am to 6pm // Aras na nGael

Every Saturday and Sunday // 11am to 6pm // around St Nicholas’ Church

Flea Style Market

Moycullen Market

Vintage clothing, vinyl records, jewellery, vegan treats and homegoods give the Flea Style Market its unique charm. There are no better thrifting grounds in Galway! This year, their Christmas markets will also feature art stalls from around the country, and a vegan cafe from Bliss Bites Bakery!

This small market across from the Forge has about 15-20 stalls. This is the market where Galway’s now-famous Handsome Burger got their start, and it’s a lovely way to spend a nice half hour while you peruse all the lovely offerings.

Multiple dates and venues // Find them on Facebook @fleastylemarket

Every Friday // 12-6, Moycullen // across from the Forge pub

COSY DRINKING HOLES

DRINK

DRINK: COSY DRINKING HOLES

HAVE A PINT BY THE FIRE...

Winter in Galway doesn’t have a reputation for being especially enjoyable... But the long nights and bad weather make the perfect excuse to nip into the pub! Luckily for us, Galway has plenty of choice when it comes to warm and welcoming spots. From craft beer to whiskey bars, take your pick and get comfortable.

Tigh Neachtain’s This pub hasn’t changed much since the 70’s, which in this case is a good thing! Neachtain’s has a real cosy vibe, especially in the winter months when it’s no longer an option to sit outside and watch the world go by. Plenty of nooks and crannies make it a great spot for a few quiet pints of an afternoon.

17 Cross Street, Galway // +353(0)91 568 820

Taaffe’s Centrally located on Shop Street, this pub celebrates a love of sport (especially GAA!) and traditional Irish music. An open fire, wrap around bar, and bandstand makes Taaffe’s a great spot to get cosy for the night and enjoy the entertainment.

19 Shop Street, Galway // +353(0)91 564 066

McGinn’s Hop House This cheery pub has a brilliant range of craft beers, and they serve delicious wood-fired pizza as well. There’s no better combination for those chilly nights when you just want to nip in somewhere, enjoy a good brew and get some food into you!

19 Woodquay, Galway // +353(0)91 374 412

PAGE.23.

DRINK

“ I'VE NEVER BEEN THROWN OUT OF A PUB, BUT I’VE FALLEN INTO QUITE A FEW “ Benny Bellamacina

The Salthouse This eclectic pub serves exclusively craft beer, with Galway Bay Brewery featuring prominently. Alternative music, candle holders dripping with wax, board games and an intimate interior give the Salthouse its unique charm.

Raven’s Terrace, Galway’s Westend // +353(0)91 441 550

Trapper’s Inn A warm and friendly welcome awaits you at this family-run pub, just outside the City Centre. Cosy hardwood and stained glass lighting makes it the perfect spot for the season. Call in for a full breakfast, carvery lunch or a delicious dinner and enjoy live music on the weekends while you’re there!

Tuam Road, Galway // +353(0)91 751 228

King’s Head A popular spot for visitors and locals alike, the King’s Head is a sprawling bar with plenty of nooks, crannies, a fireplace and an open mezzanine section which gives great views for the regular trad sessions and bands onstage. It’s definitely a great place to shelter in from the winter weather and enjoy the atmosphere!

15 High Street, Galway City // +353(0)91 566 630

DRINK

Freeney’s This unique bar in Galway’s Latin Quarter is proper old-school traditional pub, as well as a bait-and-tackle shop. They offer a superior range of whiskeys on display and are part of the official Galway Whiskey Trail.

Freeney’s are family owned and operated since 1938, and are one of Galway’s oldest pubs!

19 High Street, Galway’s Latin Quarter // +353(0)91 562609

The Huntsman Inn Nestled against Lough Atalia, the Huntsman Inn is a ten-minute stroll from Eyre Square and makes a lovely stop for pints, delicious food, and even a night’s stay if you’re so inclined. The lovely hardwood interior, restaurant, bars and live music on the weekend make it a great place to spend a few hours.

164 College Road, Galway City // +353(0)91 562 849

The Thatch Bar & Restaurant at the Merriman Hotel Set in the picturesque fishing village of Kinvara, the Thatch Bar is a lovely bar and restaurant with a real homely, welcoming atmosphere. Warm upholstery, bookcases, and fireplaces will make you warm and comfortable. They serve great food, too, if you’re in the mood for some tasty grub!

Main Street, Kinvara // +353(0)91 638222

PAGE.25.

&

FRESH PLACES NEW FACES! Brand spanking new businesses to check out in Galway!

´ Jewellery Or If you’re looking for a way to treat yourself (or someone ´ Jewellery and get special), pop your head into Or inspired. This chic, contemporary jewellery store stocks everything from elegant, classic designs to fun and unique pieces. You’ll find designer watches, earring and necklace sets, stacked bracelets and plenty from Irish designers!

42 William Street, Galway City // +353(0)91 562 538

PAGE.26.

New to Galway Fritto Fritto Napoli One of Galway’s latest takeaways is a sister restaurant to the popular Pizza Napoli across the road, with the same great flavours on an expanded menu. Fried bruschetta, burgers, and delicious thick-cut chips are just a few of the late-night delights that await in this fun diner and takeaway.

2 Cross Street Upper, Galway’s Latin Quarter // +353(0)87 068 1182

Xian Street Food This new, centrally located restaurant brings traditional Chinese cooking to Galway. Their expansive menu includes delicious options like hand-pulled noodle dishes, pan-fried crispy dumplings, curries, and plenty more.

9 Quay Street, Galway’s Latin Quarter // +353(0)91 534 931

Tartare Cafe + Wine Bar This is the latest instalment from the husband and wife team responsible for Michelin-star Aniar and tapas restaurant Cava Bodega, so it’s bound to be delicious. By day, Tartare serves up sourdough sandwiches, soup, organic salads and coffees, and offers a lovely range of wine, oyster plates, sharing boards and more by night!

56 Dominick Street Lower, Galway’s Westend // +353(0)91 567 803

NOVEMBER HIGHLIGHTS BeatBoutique at HALO Resident BeatBoutique DJ Brick Flanders is an international man of mystery who’s so funky, it could (and should be) illegal. His record collection is immense, and his DJ skills are impeccable.

Every Friday night with him is a party.

24 November // HALO

The Good Father This play from Rise Theatre will have you “laughing one moment and crying unabashedly the next”, according to Variety! Champagne and a chance encounter reshape the futures of two strangers in this story of love, loss and redemption.

20 November // Town Hall Theatre

Gilbert O’Sullivan His massive hits like “Alone Again (Naturally)” and “Clair” will bring you right back to 1972.

25 November // Leisureland

GamerFest17 The biggest gaming convention to hit the west of Ireland is coming to the Radisson Blu Hotel in November.

Live-gaming challenges, special guests from YouTube, giveaways and entertainment will take place over the weekend. There will also be a PlayerZone with new titles and virtual reality, and RetroZone with nostalgic favourites.

11 and 12 November // Radisson Blu Hotel

PAGE.28.

DECEMBER HIGHLIGHTS

King Kong Company

Damien Dempsey

If you read the feature on page four, you’ll know who the King Kong Company are. If you didn’t… We’ll wait. Described as “get the f*** up and dance” music, this isn’t one you’ll want to sit out.

This popular Irish singer-songwriter returns to Galway with his unique mix of traditional Irish folk and contemporary music.

2 December // Roisin Dubh

14 December // Monroe’s Live

Electric presents Alan Fitzpatrick

Amazing Apples

Glen Hansard

This UK producer of floor-filling techno is massively in demand at the moment with hits like “We Do What We Want” and plenty more. For an endless night, head to Electric.

This five-piece Galway band are returning to home territory this December, after a 2017 tour with the Saw Doctors. This gig last year was a great way to properly kick off the holidays, and it’ll likely be even better this year.

Glen Hansard is returning to Galway with his third solo album, "Between Two Shores", for an intimate concert at the Town Hall Theatre. Hansard is known for his role in The Frames and The Swell Season, and their appearance in 'Once'.

14 December // Electric Garden & Theatre

23 December // The Loft

10 December // Town Hall Theatre

PAGE.29.

CHRISTMAS CALENDAR...

Santa’s Christmas Magic at Brigit’s Garden Elfie, Santa and Mrs Claus are back this year with a wonderful family show by candlelight, full of Christmas magic. There will be music, stories, a treasure hunt through the Celtic Gardens, and Christmas treats afterward!

Multiple times & dates // More info at: BrigitsGarden.ie

The Glenlo Polar Express Climb aboard the Polar Express for a magical Christmas experience! Have a festive afternoon tea with Mrs. Clause, followed by a visit to Santa with a gift for all the children. Served onboard the Glenlo Abbey’s Pullman Restaurant every Saturday and Sunday through December, with servings at 1pm and 4pm!

More info at: GlenloAbbeyHotel.ie

Visit Santa at Slieve Aughty Every year, Santa plans a stop at Slieve Aughty Centre, where he enjoys a soft chair next to a cosy fire in his cabin while he visits with children from around the country. Each family gets scheduled personal time with Santa and a small gift.

Multiple dates // More info at: Slieveaughtycentre.com

Santa’s On His Way to the Burren Nature Sanctuary Families will love enjoying hot chocolate, mulled cider, cookies and cake with Mrs Claus, visiting Santa and getting a lovely gift from him, visiting the elves in their toy workshop, and meeting Santa’s animals!

Multiple dates // More info at: Bns.ie

PAGE.30.

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