Galway City Museum is delighted to announce an engaging programme of creative workshops this May, celebrating imagination, storytelling, and artistic expression as part of both the Bealtaine Festival and National Drawing Day 2026.
Creative Writing Workshops: Inspired by Objects
For the Bealtaine Festival, the Museum will once again host a special series of creative writing workshops led by award-winning poet and facilitator Gerry Hanberry. Running on Thursdays 7, 14, 21, & 28 May and 4 June, from 11:00am to 1:00pm, these workshops invite participants to explore the stories behind unique Museum objects. Each session begins with Museum staff sharing the history of a selected object, followed by guided creative responses in a welcoming and supportive environment.
Participants will be encouraged to develop their ideas in a format of their choosing—whether poetry, prose, or personal reminiscence—taking inspiration from the objects and their stories.
While the Bealtaine Festival celebrates creativity in older people, all ages are welcome to attend. Participants are encouraged to commit to attending most or all sessions.
Portrait Sketching Workshops: Sketch or Be Sketched
To mark National Drawing Day, the Museum is pleased to welcome artist Catherine Creaven and her Portrait Sketching Group on Saturday 16 May from 12:00pm to 2:00pm. Visitors are invited to take part in live portrait sketching within the Museum galleries—either by sitting for a portrait or by picking up a pencil and joining in. Materials will be provided, though participants are welcome to bring their own. Suitable for Adults.
Museum events are free of charge, but advance booking is essential as places are limited. To reserve a place, contact (091 ) 532460 or email [email protected].
Explore the Museum
Visitors to Galway City Museum can also enjoy a diverse range of exhibitions, including: An Tír Faoi Thoinn – The Land Beneath the Waves; Earth Action; Surrounded by Stone; Keepers of the Gael | Caomhnóirí na nGael; Revolution in Galway, 1913–23; The Galway Hooker and The Wild Atlantic – Sea Science.
Lovers of LEGO® bricks are invited to embark on a Tiny Treasure Hunt, to find 12 LEGO® miniatures—crafted by artist Jessica Farrell—depicting Galway scenes from past and present and hidden throughout the galleries. Complete the hunt and collect a certificate at reception.
Silent Saturdays at Galway City Museum is a new initiative that offers a calmer and more comfortable visit for neurodivergent visitors, people with sensory differences and anyone who would benefit from a quieter environment. These take place on the last Saturday of every month from 10am - 12pm. Find the Social Story and more information at www.GalwayCityMuseum.ie
Opening times are Tuesday to Saturday: 10:00am – 5:00pm, Sunday: 12:00pm – 5:00pm (Galleries close at 4:45pm ). Admission is free!
Galway City Museum operates under the auspices of Galway City Council.
