Galway City Council this week announced a significant increase in investment for the city’s Christmas lights – ensuring a brighter, more vibrant festive season for residents, businesses, and visitors alike.

This enhanced investment will fund a comprehensive programme of improvements and expansions to the city’s Christmas lighting, including an extension of the Spanish Arch display, building on the success of the 2024 installation and further illuminating the historic core of the city.

It will also see a new signature lighting piece at the Claddagh Basin, celebrating Galway’s maritime heritage with a striking, photogenic centrepiece – and a contemporary Christmas ‘tree’ installation at the Salthill roundabout, welcoming visitors and locals with festive cheer as they arrive to Salthill.

There will be new lighting at the Small Crane, transforming this neighbourhood square into a warm and inviting winter gathering space – and there will be repairs and upgrades across the city, ensuring reliability, sustainability, and an even more magical atmosphere throughout the festive period.

This investment has been made possible through the decision by Galway City Councillors to increase commercial rates.

A programme of activities and events will be funded over the Christmas holidays and the New Year and will include the family friendly New Years countdown event in the City Centre programmed by Night-Time Economy Officer, Kate Howard.

“Galway’s Christmas lights are a source of joy and pride for our community, and this year we’re going bigger, bolder, and brighter,” said Mayor of Galway, Cllr Mike Cubbard.

And to complement the lighting enhancements, Galway City Council will also launch a ‘Shop Local, Shine Bright’ campaign, encouraging residents and visitors to support Galway’s independent retailers, cafés, and service providers throughout the Christmas period.

In addition, Galway City Council will sponsor the ‘Best Dressed Business’ competition in cooperation with Galway Chamber and Gaillimh le Gaeilge.

Winners will receive promotional features, prizes, and recognition for their contribution to Galway’s Christmas charm.

Pictured: Eyre Square…Galway will be brighter than ever this Christmas.