A varied and exciting programme of events will take place across Galway City during Ireland's Presidency of the Council of the European Union (July to December 2026), celebrating Galway's partnership with Estonia through the County Pairings Programme as well as our relationship with all EU member states.
The County Pairings Programme is a national initiative developed as part of Ireland's EU Presidency. Under the programme, each local authority has been partnered with an EU Member State to strengthen connections between local communities and Europe through cultural, educational, civic and economic engagement.
Galway has been paired with Estonia, a country we have developed strong links with over many years through a number of EU projects and initiatives such as the Interreg project NITIES, where the aim is to unite public authorities to maximise the benefits and minimise the negative impacts of night-time activities.
During the Presidency period, this partnership will create opportunities to showcase the rich culture, creativity and innovation that both Galway and Estonia share, while encouraging discussion and collaboration on issues of mutual interest through a range of public events and exchanges.
Galway City Council, working in partnership with the Department of Foreign Affairs and the Department of Culture, Communications and Sport, has developed a programme that highlights the European aspects of our city while building on Galway's strong international outlook.
Over the course of the Presidency, residents and visitors can look forward to a wide range of activities, including guided tours, public talks, music, exhibitions and cultural events taking place throughout the city. Themes explored across the programme will include culture and heritage, innovation, language, sustainability, creativity and European cooperation.
Galway City will also host a number of significant conferences and international gatherings in the University of Galway and Atlantic Technical University, bringing together academics, researchers, policymakers and practitioners from Ireland, Estonia and across Europe.
In addition, Galway City and County Councils will jointly host the 10th External ECON Meeting and Conference which will bring together European and local elected members and stakeholders who will debate local economic policies, adopt official opinions, and join regional conferences. This event is recognised as an Associated Event of the Irish Presidency of the Council of the European Union 2026.
This programme aims to strengthen awareness of Europe's role in our daily lives, encourage cultural exchange, and create opportunities for people to engage with the ideas and values that underpin the European Union.
To learn more about the programme, please explore the links below or contact euprojects@galwaycity.ie
Galway City Council EU Presidency Culture Programme: click here
Other EU Presidency events for Galway City: click here
The programme will continue to evolve throughout Ireland's EU Presidency, with the latest updates available on galwaycity.ie.
Further information on Ireland's Presidency of the Council of the European Union is available on the official website, Ireland2026.eu.