Mad Hatter's Family Funday
Sunday 2nd August 2026
Sunday brings the Galway Races Summer Festival to a joyful and colourful close with Mad Hatter’s Family Fun Day, delivered in partnership with Ireland West Airport. It’s a day designed for all ages, full of excitement, creativity, and memorable moments as families enjoy one last celebration at Ballybrit.
The course fills with colour as children and adults arrive in their best handcrafted hats, each hoping to take home a prize in the much‑loved Mad Hatter’s competition. With entertainment, activities, and fun running throughout the afternoon, it’s a relaxed and welcoming day that truly celebrates the family spirit of the festival.
On the track, the prestigious Ahonoora Handicap takes centre stage as the final feature race of the week. Bringing together great sport, family entertainment, and a festival atmosphere, Mad Hatter’s Family Funday is the perfect ending to what is always an unforgettable week at Ballybrit.
Come along for our best “Mad Hatters Day” yet proudly supported by Ireland West Airport, designed especially for our young racing fans. Family admission tickets are now available at a special advance price of just €42.50 (€50 on the day).
Turnstiles Open
11.30am
First Race
1.50pm
Last Race
5.30pm
Number of races
8
Admission Prices
Adult – Must be aged 18 or over*
On the Day
€30
Pay in Advance
€25
Senior Citizens
On the Day
€25
Pay in Advance
€20
Students – Must be aged 18 or over & hold a valid Student I.D.
On the Day
€25
Pay in Advance
€20
Children 17 & Under (Must be accompanied by Parent)***
On the Day
FREE
Pay in Advance
–
Reserved Seat on the Top Floor of Millennium Grandstand:
On the Day
€20
Pay in Advance
€20
Parade Ring Lounge
On the Day
N/A
Pay in Advance
N/A
*Adult Tickets – May only be used by persons aged 18 or over, Children 17 & Under will not be admitted on this ticket.
** Student Tickets – May only be used by persons aged 18 or over and hold a valid Student I.D. Children 17 & Under will not be admitted on this ticket.
***Children 17 & Under – Must be accompanied by Parent. Please Note Children 17 & Under will not be admitted with persons over 18 years who are not their Parent.
Racecard
1st Race
1.50pm
The Adare Manor Opportunity Handicap Hurdle
2nd Race
2.20pm
The Kenny Galway Handicap Hurdle
3rd Race
2.55pm
The Kinlay Hostel Steeplechase
4th Race
3.30pm
The Lord Hemphill Memorial Handicap Steeplechase
5th Race
4.00pm
The Irish Stallion Farms EBF Ahonoora Handicap
6th Race
4.30pm
The Irish EBF Auction Series Maiden
7th Race
5.00pm
The Village Salthill Handicap
8th Race
5.30pm
The FR. Breen Memorial (Pro-am) Flat Race
Our Sponsors
The Mad Hatters Competition kindly sponsored by Ireland West Airport. We are delighted to have the support of Ireland West Airport again for our 2025 Mad Hatters Competition. More information to follow on this competition. Ireland West Airport is spacious, airy and perfectly suited for the future of travel. Fly to 20 international destinations, including new services to Edinburgh, Manchester and Milan with Ryanair, without the stress of big crowds or large distances to cover. Perfect for families, friends and a more relaxed flying experience, ensuring your safety at all times. For more information visit www.irelandwestairport.com/destinations
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