Red Earl’s Hall Galway Medieval Show – Heritage Week 2026

Saturday 22 August | 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Hall of the Red Earl, Druid Lane, Galway

Step back into the world of medieval Galway at the Hall of the Red Earl during this special Heritage Week event. Dating from the 13th century, the Hall is one of the city’s most important archaeological monuments and is closely connected to the origins of Galway itself. Once the centre of civic life, it served as a venue for administration, tax collection, banquets, and the administration of justice during the Anglo-Norman period.

Throughout the day, visitors will have the opportunity to meet and interact with individuals in authentic medieval costume who will help bring the story of the Hall and its inhabitants to life. Through engaging displays, demonstrations, and informal conversations, members of the public can discover what daily life may have been like in medieval Galway over 700 years ago.

A series of short talks on living history will explore aspects of medieval society, clothing, customs, trade, and the people who shaped Galway’s early development. The event offers a unique opportunity to connect with the city’s past in the very place where much of its early history unfolded.

Frozen in time beneath its protective glass structure on Druid Lane, the Hall of the Red Earl remains a remarkable reminder of medieval Galway. Built during the era of the De Burgo family, founders and early lords of the town, the site continues to reveal stories of the people who lived, worked, traded, and governed here centuries ago.

This free, family-friendly event is part of National Heritage Week 2026, celebrating the theme “Heritage at Risk” and highlighting the importance of preserving and sharing Galway’s rich archaeological and cultural heritage.

Admission is free. All are welcome.

Galway Civic Trust: A Celebration of Heritage 2026 forms part of National Heritage Week 2026, embracing this year’s theme, “Heritage at Risk.” Through a diverse programme of talks, guided tours, exhibitions, music, and cultural events, Galway Civic Trust / Dúchas na Gaillimhe invites the community to celebrate, appreciate, and help safeguard the rich heritage that defines Galway City.

Held across the Mick Lally Theatre and the Hall of the Red Earl on Druid Lane in Galway’s Latin Quarter, the day-long programme brings together local historians, musicians, artists, guides, and community groups to explore the city’s remarkable archaeological, architectural, cultural, and living heritage. From medieval history and waterways to traditional music, local stories, and community memory, the programme highlights the importance of protecting our shared heritage for future generations.

As we celebrate Galway’s past, we also recognise the challenges facing many aspects of our heritage today. By sharing knowledge, encouraging participation, and inspiring new generations to value the places, traditions, and stories that surround us, Galway Civic Trust hopes to contribute to the ongoing preservation of Galway’s unique identity.

We gratefully acknowledge the support of our sponsors:

Kavanagh’s SuperValu – kavanaghgroup.ie/supervalu
Druid Theatre – druid.ie
Galway City Council – Local Community Festival Grants

For the full programme of events and booking information, visit www.galwaycivictrust.ie

For more details:
Galway Civic Trust / Dúchas na Gaillimhe
091 564946
bookings@galwaycivictrust.ie