Regional Skills West in partnership with Galway City Council launched the Grow Your Show Report at UkeFest in Father Burke Park.
UkeFest one of the many festivals the city welcomes each year, provided the ideal setting to highlight the strength, creativity and community spirit of Galway’s festivals and events sector.
The launch formed part of a Festivals & Events Sector Meet‑Up, bringing together organisers, producers, venue managers, volunteer coordinators, technical crews, artists and wider industry stakeholders from across the West. The event offered space to connect, share insights and discuss the opportunities and challenges shaping the future of the sector.
Attendees heard the key findings of the report, took part in networking sessions and engaged in a panel discussion featuring industry voices, including John Crumlish, CEO of Galway International Arts Festival, who spoke about sector pressures and the need for long‑term strategic development and stronger collaboration.
The Mayor of Galway City officially launched the report and acknowledged the vital role festivals and events play in Galway’s cultural and economic life.
Fr. Burke Park, one of Galway’s well‑used community green spaces has recently benefited from pathway upgrades, new seating, planting and a playground upgrade, enhancing accessibility and usability for residents and visitors. These works support Galway City Council’s commitment to improving public spaces and enabling more outdoor cultural activity.
Speaking at the event, Ruairí Lehmann, Tourism Officer at Galway City Council, said:
“Galway’s festivals and events sector is one of the city’s greatest strengths. The Grow Your Show Report highlights the depth of creativity, skill and ambition across the industry, and the importance of supporting organisers at every level. Today’s event shows our commitment to strengthening the sector and ensuring Galway remains a world‑class destination for festivals and events”
The report outlines recommendations across skills development, technical supports, sector coordination and visibility and is available here.