| The world-renowned Galway Racing Festival takes | | | | Person Award. And for those with a hat making |
| place from the 28th of July to the 3rd of August | | | | creative streak (as well as a good sense of |
| 2008. The venue is Ballybrit Racecourse, just | | | | humour and adventure) there's the very popular |
| outside Galway city centre, and whether you're a | | | | "Mad Hatters Day". |
| veteran race goer or a novice and fancy a flutter | | | | Ballybrit Racecourse is only about 5km from |
| you'll love the unique atmosphere of this fun filled | | | | Galway city centre. There are pubs, clubs, shops |
| racing event. | | | | and restaurants in abundance here. And as for |
| The highlights of the Galway Races summer | | | | hotels in Galway city, there's an excellent selection |
| 7-day meeting would have to be Wednesday's | | | | to choose from, from 5 star luxury to budget |
| "Galway Plate" and Thursday's "Galway Hurdle". | | | | hotels. There are also plenty family run Galway |
| Last year in excess of 210,00 people attended | | | | B&B's, Galway guesthouses, and if you |
| the week long event. Bets of over EUR31 million | | | | prefer the freedom and flexibility of a Galway self |
| were placed, and you're never too far from the | | | | catering property there's a good selection of self |
| action with big screen closed circuit TVs at | | | | catering options and campus accommodation to |
| various points throughout the grounds. | | | | choose from. |
| Proving that this is a festival for everyone, | | | | Obviously there's going to be a huge demand for |
| budding fashionistas can enjoy "Ladies Day". You | | | | any Galway accommodation during this extremely |
| can rub shoulders with celebrities and you might | | | | busy week. Our advice is to book well in advance |
| be in with a chance of scooping the Best Dressed | | | | so that you get exactly what you're looking for. |