8 Christmas Craft Fairs Taking Place in Galway this Winter

Galway is celebrated far and wide for its thriving arts scene, and rightfully so.

For decades, our little corner of the West has seen countless homegrown artists go on to achieve great things in Ireland and beyond. Many of them began their careers in the towns and villages where they grew up. Neighbours, friends, and other members of their local community often became their first customers and biggest fans. 

That's why purchasing some of your Christmas gifts from local craftspeople is one of the best ways to support local this year. Take a look at our list of craft fairs and Christmas markets below to find one close to you:

Oughterard Mini Christmas Market

A mini indoor market promising lots of handmade goods, local foods, and a selection of Christmas gifts from local businesses. Some of the highlights include complimentary tea and coffee and a raffle on the day.

When: Sunday, November 21st, 11am - 3.30pm.

Where: Oughterard Courthouse, Bridge St, Oughterard.

Tuam Christmas Craft Fair

One of the biggest craft fairs in Galway and taking place on three separate dates, this much-anticipated event attracts gifted artists and craftspeople from all over Galway. Fifteen stalls will be set up for browsing on the day. From ceramics and wood-turning to jewellery and paintings, this one has it all and much more. 

When: Saturday, November 20th, 26th, and December 4th. From 10am - 4pm.

Where: The Mill, Tuam.

Gort Community School TY Christmas Fair

Find handmade crafts, baked goodies and lots more at this TY-organised event in Gort. Great place to pick up some small bits for Christmas and grab a few festive treats.

When: Friday, 26th November 11am - 3pm.

Where: Lady Gregory Hotel.

Athenry Christmas Shopping Fair

From the Athenry Community Council comes this annual crafts fair that showcases work from some of the best local artists and creators, as well as delicious foods and gift selections from some great local businesses. Bonus: this quaint medieval town always looks super festive during the winter months — perfect for helping you get into the Christmas spirit!

When: Thursday, November 18th, 7pm - 10pm.

Where: Raheen Woods Hotel, Athenry.

Light Up Loughrea Christmas Market

A wonderful family Christmas market organised in collaboration with Galway East Food and Heritage Group. Complete with a Santa visit for the kids and a beer tent for the adults, you'll be able to find everything from locally-produced food to handcrafted gifts. Stay long enough and you'll get to see the town's fabulous new Christmas lights being turned on!

When: Saturday, November 20th, 12pm to 7pm.

Where: The Garden at Charlies Bar, Loughrea.

Barna Christmas Craft Fair

This one's for a great cause. Proceeds from this local crafts fair will go towards supporting four local animal rescues this Christmas, including MADRA, Galway Cat Rescue, Renvyle Cat & Dog Rescue, and An Cat Dubh Sanctuary. Promises to have lots of local foods, arts and crafts, and a raffle.

When: Saturday 27th November, 10am - 4pm.

Where: Bearna Golf Club, Barna.

Roundstone Craft Fair and Cake Sale

This family event aims to raise funds for the wonderful Jack & Jill Foundation. In addition to crafts and freshly baked goods, they'll have appearances from Mr and Mrs Claus, selection boxes for the kids, balloon craft, face painting, and a raffle.

When: Sunday, December 5th, 2.30pm - 5.30pm.

Where: Roundstone Community Hall, Connemara.

Umbrella Eile

This craft fair takes place every Sunday at the Galway Rowing Club and is home to a growing number of fantastic local craft makers. They have a wide range of crafts on display from over 60 members, so be sure to check them out when you're in the city this Christmas season.

When: Every Sunday, 11am - 5pm.

Where: Galway Rowing Club, Woodquay, Galway City.

Note: Covid certs and masks may be compulsory at some indoor/outdoor venues so come prepared to avoid disappointment.