The second Galway Love festival kicks off this Friday, showcasing local artists celebrating love in all its forms.
The theme of this year’s festival, sponsored by the Latin Quarter Galway, is All About Nora (Barnacle) and its exciting programme will feature visual art, poetry, tours, music and singles events.
The festival begins on Friday, 10 February, at 7pm with a Costume Party at Tigh Nora’s.
Dress up as your favourite “loved up icon” and watch music and poetry performances by Órla Mc Govern & Niceol Blue.
From Friday you can check out The Love Art Trail featuring visual art in the windows of local businesses across the Latin Quarter.
There will also be a programme of Love films at Palás Cinema including Titanic in 3D, Lady & the Tramp Valentine’s Doggy Screening and Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind.
The Saturday programme kicks off at 2pm with a ring making with Jonathon Margatis at Thomas Dillion’s, makers of the Original Claddagh Rings since 1750.
Next up is a love themed reading at Charlie Byrne’s Bookshop with Gerry Hanberry, Caoimhe LaVille, Alan McMonagle, Tom Matthews.
Professor Brian Artkins will read a brief extract from his new book, The Poetry of Sex.
Traditional céilí bands will play live music at Tigh Chóilí’s from 8pm and Taaffes Bar from 10pm.
On Sunday afternoon there will be two free walking tours. A historical walk about Nora Barnacle with Jonathon Hannon starts at Tigh Neachtains at 3pm.
Famous Clairvoyant Hope NadiaAidan will summon the spirits at the 1800s dwelling Nora Barnacle’s House from 4:30pm and give a walking tour of “ghostly love stories’, across the Latin Quarter.
Sunday evening will come to a close with a Speed Date Drawing event, Speed Dating with a twist! Not just for singles and no drawing skills required. A fun and creative opportunity to make new friends hosted by Sylvia Fleming.
Monday’s programme takes place in Tigh Neachtains. Arrive at 7pm to get a cartoon caricature from Jim Cogan & other cartoonists.
Gerry Hanberry will recite poetry and music referencing his book Irish Love Songs and the Women Who Inspired Them from 8.30pm.
While you’re there you can also have a drink in the Love Snug, where the “small snug” at Tigh Neachtains will be turned into a romantic hideaway.
On Valentine’s Day the windows of 2 Wild Geese and other windows nearby will be dressed with decorations and performers inspired by the windows of Amsterdam.
The festival closes with a masquerade party at the Dew Drop Inn from 7pm with cartoon caricatures, poetry and more with delicious nibbles from Cava Bodega.
If you miss the weekend festivities you can check out the flirty Galway Food Tours special. Experience the perfect blend of food and romance with the unique Valentine’s Food Tour on February 15 offering a refreshing alternative to the traditional Valentine’s Day and post the Hallmark pressure date!
The tour kicks off at 6pm and is priced at €85. To book visit www.galwayfoodtours.com.
A week celebrating our passion for food, drink, music, literature, art and each other! No booking required. You can find out more at www.galwaylovefestival.com
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