Flames will blaze in towns throughout the county as the Galway 2020 Opening Ceremony travels ever closer to the city across the first week of February. Local themes and traditions will appear as never before in the week-long momentous event, which begins with a turf cutting ceremony on Saint Brigid’s Day and concludes with a spectacular finale on 8 February in Galway City.

The Fire Tour brings together an energetic cast from each town to take part in a unique, intimate performance on each consecutive night. Watch a passionate Portumna Town Cast bathe St Brigid’s Church Car Park in firelight in the Market town of Portumna, during the Lighting Ceremony on Thursday, 6 February.

Expect performance, music and processions from 6pm onwards at this free open-air celebration.

Lighting Ceremony – Portumna Schedule

6pm Gates Open

Celebrations warm up with live music from Katie & Brianna Meyler and Jolie Collins Woods, emerging acts taking part in the Livefeed youth music project.

6.45–8pm Flame and sound will flood the streets in a special, community cast procession through the town of Portumna. After a spoken word performance from Noelle Lynskey, Portumna’s specially commissioned town sphere will be lit. Crowds can then expect a performance from energetic Galway pop-rock band, Rofi James.

As this event takes place outdoors please wear appropriate footwear and clothing.

Traffic restrictions will be in place and will be advertised locally