One of Ireland’s biggest horse racing fixtures and fashion extravaganzas, the world-renowned Galway Racing Festival, takes place from the 28th of July to the 3rd of August 2008. The venue is Ballybrit Racecourse, just outside Galway city centre, and whether you’re a veteran race goer or a novice and fancy a flutter you’ll love the unique atmosphere of this fun filled racing event.

The highlights of the Galway Races summer 7-day meeting would have to be Wednesday’s “Galway Plate” and Thursday’s “Galway Hurdle”. Last year in excess of 210,00 people attended the week long event. Bets of over €31 million were placed, and you’re never too far from the action with big screen closed circuit TVs at various points throughout the grounds.

Proving that this is a festival for everyone, budding fashionistas can enjoy  “Ladies Day”. You can rub shoulders with celebrities and you might be in with a chance of scooping the Best Dressed Person Award. And for those with a hat making creative streak (as well as a good sense of humour and adventure) there’s the very popular “Mad Hatters Day”. 

Ballybrit Racecourse is only about 5km from Galway city centre. There are pubs, clubs, shops and restaurants in abundance here. And as for hotels in Galway city, there’s an excellent selection to choose from, from 5 star  luxury to budget hotels. There are also plenty family run Galway B&B’s, Galway guesthouses, and if you prefer the freedom and flexibility of a Galway self catering property there’s a good selection of self catering options and campus accommodation to choose from.

Obviously there’s going to be a huge demand for any Galway accommodation during this extremely busy week. Our advice is to book well in advance so that you get exactly what you’re looking for.

Find out more about the Galway Races 2008

If you need assistance booking Galway accommodation for the Galway Races 2008 drop us a line. Leave a message in the comment box below and we’ll get back to you.