The Dagda Games
Irish Strength & Heritage Festival
2027 Details TBC
Date: Saturday, 27th June 2026- Time: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Location: Claregalway Castle (Just a short walking distance from the hotel)
Looking for things to do in Galway this weekend? Experience a powerful celebration of culture, history, and raw power at The Dagda Games – Irish Strength & Heritage Festival. Taking place at the historic Claregalway Castle, located just a short stroll down the road from our hotel doors, this unique single-day festival brings ancient Gaelic traditions and modern strength athletics together under the shadow of a 15th-century castle.
Whether you are travelling across Ireland for the competition or looking for an unforgettable family day out in Co. Galway, secure your festival accommodation and dining plans early to ensure you don’t miss out.
Festival Lineup & Events
The Dagda Games feature an action-packed schedule of traditional Celtic trials, combat sports, and local heritage displays running from morning until late evening.
- Natural Stone Lifting: Watch athletes test their limits against historic, unshaped boulders.
- Strongman – Irish Strength Cup: Elite competitors battle across dynamic events of sheer power.
- Irish Collar & Elbow Wrestling: Witness the historic return of Ireland’s native, highly technical grappling martial art.
- Irish Stick Fighting (Bataireacht): Fast-paced demonstrations of traditional Irish martial arts.
- Armwrestling & Grip Lifting championships: Elite trials of hand and forearm strength.
- Craft Market & Live Music: Browse stalls from local West of Ireland artisans and enjoy live music on the castle grounds throughout the day.
Fuel Up at Bia & Co. Gastro Bar
Don’t let hunger slow you down during a 11-hour festival. Located just a short walking distance from Claregalway Castle, Bia & Co. Gastro Bar is the perfect pit-stop before, during, or after the games.
- Pre-Festival Breakfast & Brunch: Fuel up with a hearty Irish breakfast or artisan coffee before the gates open at 10 AM.
- Mid-Day Lunch Refresh: Step away from the crowds for a relaxed lunch, stone-baked pizzas, or healthy salads.
- Post-Games Dinner & Drinks: The festival wraps up at 9 PM, join us afterwards for premium steaks, locally sourced dishes, and celebratory cocktails or pints.
