Experiences & Attractions

Ballinasloe Multicultural Mid – Summer Festival

A celebration of community spirit and cultural diversity, the event promises something for everyone – locals and newcomers alike – with a vibrant programme of activities and entertainment. Inside the Emerald Ballroom, visitors will enjoy a tapestry of multicultural cuisine and live performances, with food stalls offering delicious dishes from around the world. There ’ ll also be a full programme of music, dance and cultural entertainment, showcasing the talents and traditions of the town ’ s diverse communities – a chance to experience global culture without leaving town! Outside on the Fair Green, the focus will be on movement, play and participation with a wide range of sporting activities for all ages. From fun “ Give it a Go ” games to demonstrations and taster sessions run by local clubs and volunteers, t his is an ideal opportunity for families to try something new in a relaxed, friendly environment. Date: 20thJune 2026

Ballinasloe Agricultural Show

Ballinasloe Show is the oldest shows in Ireland, established in 1829. Ballinasloe Show is hosting five All Ireland Championships finals with classes for Ponies, Horses, Cattle, Sheep and Dogs.

Put Your Business on the Map

Would you like to feature your business on our website? This is a great opportunity to reach a wider audience, promote your services, and connect with potential customers in your area. Gain more visibility and let people know what makes your business special.

Meelick Weir

Sometimes you just have to see something once to realise its magic and this was certainly the case when AgriLand visited Meelick in Co. Gal way recently. The area boasts a picturesque rural Irish landscape that serves as the perfect backdrop to the River Shannon which allows the three counties of Galway, Offaly and Tipperary to meet. And, right now, the historic Meelick weir is undergoing a ma jor restoration and replacement operation that will see it returned to its former glory in the not – to – distant future. The project – which received a cash injection of €3.2 million – is being undertaken by Waterways Ireland in conjunction with Keating Construction and with two months ’ work already completed it is envisaged that the effort will be finished before the end of the year.

Clonfert Cathedral

The small village of Clonfert , only a short distance west of the River Shannon in County Galway, is home to a beautiful cathedral that boasts an elaborate, Romanesque doorway dating from 1200. The ecclesiastical history of the place dates back to the 6th century when St Brendan the Navigator founded a monastery and it is predictable there were about 3,000 monks living there. When he died, about 584, St Brendan ’ s body was buried at Clonfert and the presence of his remains explains why such an ornate doorway was later created. Note: The Church is locked but a key is available locally from the house at the right – hand side of the Cathedral.

Clonmacnoise

The monastery of Clonmacnoise (Cluain Mhic Nóis in Irish, meaning “ Meadow of the Sons of Nós ”, or perhaps, albeit less l ikely, Cluain Muccu Nóis “ Meadow of the Pigs of Nós ”) is situated in County Offaly, Ireland on the River Shannon south of Athlone. Clonmacnoise was founded in 544 by St. Ciarán, a young man from Rathcroghan, County Roscommon.[2] (Not to be confused or conflated with St. Ciarán of Saigir, patron of Osraige). Until the 9th century, it had close associations with the kings of Connacht. The strategic location the monastery helped it become a major centre of religion, learning, craftsmanship, and trade by the 9t h century and together with Clonard it was the most famous in Ireland, visited by scholars from all over Europe. From the ninth until the eleventh century, it was allied with the kings of Meath. Many of the high kings of Tara and Connacht were buried here. In the modern – day, the site stands as a preserved ruin under the management of the Office of Public Works. An interpretive centre and facilities for visitors have been built around the site, which is open to the public for a fee. The graveyard surrounding the site continues to be in use and religious services are held regularly on the site in a modern chapel.

The Hymany Way

The Hymany Way is the longest stage on the Ireland Way at over 100km and brings you through County Galway. Follow along the River Shannon, Ireland ’ s longest river on this mostly off – road trail. Discover Meelick Church, the oldest church in Ireland that is still in regular use. Pass by Brackloon Castle on the Way and check out the decorative stone – carved doorway of Clonfert Cathedral. Towns & Distances:

Portumna–Meelick–17.2km
Meelick–Clonfert–7.4km
Clonfert–Ballinasloe–21km
Ballinasloe–Aughrim–13km
Aughrim–Ahascragh (off trail)–18.9km
Ahascragh–Ballygar–22.9km

Hiking Trail Total Distance:100.4km /62.4miles.

Aughrim Interpretive Centre

The Battle of Aughrim Visitor Centre is located in the heart of Aughrim village (GPS: 53.3042° N, 8.3167° W) between Ballinasloe and Loughrea. It is just off the R446, and visitors should take exit 15 on the M6 if travelling on the Galway – Dublin Motorway. Travel back in time at the Battle of Aughrim Visit or Centre and relive one of Europe ’ s most historic battles that changed the course of Irish history. Discover how three rival European Kings – William of Orange, James II, and Louis XIV – took hold of Ireland in their struggle for power with over 45,000 sold iers gathering at Aughrim in 1691, in what proved to be the defining battle of the Williamite War in Ireland. Learn about the Battle of Aughrim in relation to the other major event of the Williamite War such as the Battle of the Boyne, the sieges of Athlon e and Limerick, and the Flight of the Wild Geese. Tours and Groups welcome!

FÉILE CHEOIL LARRY REYNOLDS

Traditional Irish Music, Heritage & Cultural Festival celebrating the East Galway Style & the music life of Larry Reynolds. This festival is held annually the 1st weekend in September in Ballinasloe.

Europe Direct Ballinasloe & Library

We provide information on EU activities as well as a full Library service, with books, ebooks, eaudiobooks, events, book clubs and more!

Beechlawn Organic Farm

Nestled in the heart of Ballinasloe, Co. Galway, Beechlawn Organic Farm is a leading organic vegetable farm dedicated to sustainability, biodiversity, and regenerative farming. Established by Padraig Fahy and Úna Ní Bhroin, the farm has been producing high-quality organic produce since 2002, supplying households, retailers, and businesses across Ireland. Visitors to Beechlawn Organic Farm can enjoy an immersive experience, learning about organic food production, sustainable agriculture, and the importance of soil health. Guided farm tours offer a behind-the-scenes look at how seasonal vegetables are grown, harvested, and distributed while highlighting eco-friendly practices such as composting, crop rotation, and biodiversity conservation. Perfect for families, school groups, and eco-conscious travelers, Beechlawn Organic Farm provides a unique opportunity to connect with nature, experience life on an organic farm, and support local Irish food production. Whether you’re looking to explore Ireland’s rich agricultural heritage or simply enjoy fresh organic produce, Beechlawn offers a memorable and educational experience for all.

Ballinasloe Fair & Festival

Experience one of Ireland’s oldest and most iconic fairs, dating back to 1722! Renowned as one of Europe’s largest and greatest horse fairs, it attracts buyers from across the continent to the historic Fair Green in the heart of Ballinasloe. From Irish Draughts to the famous Connemara Pony, top-quality horses are sold in the traditional way, preserving a heritage unlike anywhere else in Ireland. Since the 1960s, the event has grown into a vibrant festival with something for everyone. Enjoy traditional talks, fireworks, street entertainment, music, dance, food & craft markets, competitions, and a thrilling funfair. Join thousands of visitors for this legendary experience—once you’ve been, you’ll want to return year after year!

Ahascragh Distillery

Ahascragh Distillers Ltd. Ahascragh Distillers is an Irish family business, established in 2018 by husband-and-wife team Gareth and Michelle McAllister from Dublin, Ireland, with the purpose of producing authentically crafted Irish spirits to the highest quality of tasting experience with unique and innovative flavours. Their mission is to help family and friends celebrate meaningful moments and occasions, with innovative and sustainable premium Irish spirits. Having lived and worked in countries across Europe, the US and Asia, they returned to Ireland with the intention of turning their passion for craft Irish spirits into a successful family business. They set their sights on opening a whiskey and gin distillery in the West of Ireland. When they visited the old mill in Ahascragh, County Galway, they fell in love with its story: the beautiful stonework, the history of the buildings and the character of countryside. Ahascragh Distillery The project saw the renovation of the old Ahascragh Mill and the construction of a world class whiskey and gin experience, and hospitality destination, positioning Ahascragh on the tourism map of the Wild Atlantic Way, the Hidden Heartlands and the Irish Whiskey Trail. Ahascragh mill dates back to the early 1800s and up until the 1950s processed grain into flour. Located in the heart of the small East Galway village, the mill complex remained derelict for 70 years. The McAllisters have given the building a new lease of life. Ahascragh Distillery is Ireland’s first eco-distillery, exclusively powered by renewable energy. Fully guided tours of the state-of-the-art distillery include a journey through the history of the old mill and an exploration of whiskey and gin production. Visitors will be immersed in the art of distillation, where age old tradition, meets modern innovation, finishing with a tasting of the company’s award-winning sourced expressions, Clan Colla Irish Whiskey, UAIS Irish Whiskey and on-site distilled Xin Gin. Ahascragh Distillery is an authentic destination for whiskey and gin enthusiasts and anyone interested in history, tradition and craftmanship.

Ballinasloe Golf Club

Established in 1894, Ballinasloe Golf Club stands as a testament to Connacht’s rich golfing heritage. Nestled within the serene landscapes of Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands, our 18-hole championship parkland course is renowned for its challenging design and envious putting surfaces. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a novice, Ballinasloe Golf Club offers a diverse range of challenges to suit every skill level. The golf club is open to both new members, visitors, and societies while offering a range of services including: 18 hole course, buggy & trolley hire, floodlight putting green & short game area, practice area & nets, ample parking, changing rooms & showers, on course toilet facilities, and a clubhouse with bar & restaurant. For more information about our services, offerings, bookings, and membership please check our website for the latest updates or contact the office with any queries.

Amazing Events.

Ballinasloe showcases some of Ireland’s most vibrant and unique events, celebrating everything from local traditions to global cultures and the town comes alive throughout the year with festivals, fairs, and community gatherings that draw people together.