The Galway Races is delighted to announce that Hayley Coleman will be the Guest Judge for this year’s Mad Hatters Competition.
Taking place on Sunday, 2nd August 2026, Mad Hatters Family Fun Day is once again proudly sponsored by Ireland West Airport, a long-time supporter of this much-loved family event for almost 20 years.
This year is particularly special as Ireland West Airport celebrates 40 years since opening its doors in 1986, marking four decades of connecting the West of Ireland with destinations across Europe and beyond.
The airport’s continued support of the Mad Hatters Competition reflects its long-standing commitment to community, family experiences and tourism across the region.
A proud Mayo native, Hayley Coleman is renowned for her vibrant sense of style and strong connection to the West of Ireland, making her the perfect choice to judge one of the most colourful and creative competitions of the Galway Festival.
Now a much-anticipated tradition, Mad Hatters Family Fun Day has become a highlight of the summer calendar for families throughout the West of Ireland, combining creativity, family fun and thrilling racing action into one unforgettable day.
Get the whole family involved and hand-make your very own hat for the races! We’re looking for hats that are creative, original and sustainable, so start collecting your recycled materials and let your imagination run wild. Whether it’s cardboard, fabric scraps, ribbons, feathers or recyclable household items, the possibilities are endless.
Speaking about her appointment as Guest Judge, Hayley Coleman said, “I’m absolutely delighted to be Guest Judge for the Mad Hatters Competition at the Galway Races. As someone from the West of Ireland, I know how special this event is for families.
“I can’t wait to see the creativity on display and the unique ways people incorporate sustainability into their designs. It’s a wonderful day out, and I’m honoured that Ireland West Airport has invited me to be part of it.”
Fantastic Prizes Up for Grabs
With a spectacular line-up of prizes on offer, competition is sure to be fierce.
1st Prize: Partnering with KelAir Campotel and Ryanair to offer a return trip for 2 adults and 2 children to Barcelona Girona, including 7 nights’ accommodation in a luxury mobile home in one of their resorts in June 2027.
2nd Prize: Return flights for 2 adults and 2 children to Milan Bergamo, including tickets to Gardaland at Lake Garda.
3rd Prize: Return flights for 2 adults and 2 children to London Heathrow with Aer Lingus, including tickets to LEGOLAND.
Adult Prize: Return flights to Malaga with Ryanair for 2 adults this winter, including free parking at Ireland West Airport during your stay, complimentary use of the Ireland West Executive Lounge, and a €50 ShopWest retail voucher.
So gather your cardboard, feathers, glitter and ribbons, get crafting, and prepare to impress Hayley with your creations.
