A SIX month pilot programme is to be launched in Galway City to provide greater access to arts and culture.
‘Thursday Lates’ is the new six month pilot programme announced by Galway City Council Night-Time Economy and Galway Arts Centre. From today (April 3rd), the Galway Arts Centre will remain open every Thursday evening from 10 am to 9 pm, for a six-month period.
This initiative directly aligns with feedback from consultations for the Galway City Night-Time Economy Action Plan 2024–2025, which highlighted the extension of cultural venue opening hours as a key priority for the community. It also aligns with the Night-Time Economy Taskforce recommendations and the Programme for Government’s objective to promote later opening hours at cultural venues, offering flexible access for visitors and supporting the expansion of related services.
In addition to the existing exhibitions, a series of events will be added during ‘Thursday Lates’ to enhance the evening experience further. A detailed schedule of these events will be available on the Galway Arts Centre website.
Throughout the pilot, Galway Arts Centre will gather public feedback to understand visitor motivations and identify any operational challenges or opportunities. This information will improve public access, reach a wider audience, and develop sustainable models for future extended hours.
“We are thrilled to launch ‘Thursday Lates’ in partnership with Galway City Council to offer our community the opportunity to engage with the centre outside of traditional daytime hours,” said Megs Morley, Director of Galway Arts Centre. “We encourage everyone to take advantage of this pilot program and experience the vibrant arts scene in a new light. Your participation is vital to the success of this initiative and will help shape the future of cultural access in Galway Arts Centre,” she added.
Galway City Council Night-Time Economy Advisor, Kate Howard stated, “’Thursday Lates’ aligns with the goals of the Night-Time Economy Action Plan, and we believe it will enhance the cultural offerings available to our residents and visitors after traditional working hours”.
The Night-Time Economy Taskforce recommended the creation of Night-Time Economy Advisors and Committees in key cities and towns across Ireland, including Dublin, Cork, Galway, Kilkenny, Drogheda, Longford, Sligo, Limerick, and Buncrana. These roles are intended to harness the social, economic, and cultural potential of Ireland’s night-time economy.
This taskforce was established under the Programme for Government and published its report in September 2021, offering 36 actionable recommendations to improve regulation, transport, planning, safety, and the diversification of nightlife. One of these actions, Action 19, led to the appointment of Night-Time Economy Advisors in key locations across Ireland.
The Galway City Council Night-TIme Economy Action Plan 2024 – 2025 is supported by three core goals, infrastructure, experiences and communications. The core goals are underpinned by three key principles, safety, sustainability and inclusion.
