Former President in conversation at Galway climate festival

FORMER President of Ireland Michael D. Higgins will take part in the annual Galway Climate Inspirations Festival for a public conversation.

The free event 'Climate, Culture & Hope: A Conversation with Michael D. Higgins' is on Sunday, June 28 from 3.30pm to 4.45pm in the festival tent at Fr. Burke Park in Galway city.

Presented in partnership with the IDEA (Irish Development Education Association), the former President will be joined by author and social innovator Ruairí McKiernana, CEO of the IDEA, for a wide-ranging conversation on the role of creativity and civic partnership in shaping a more sustainable world.

The event will also feature a performance from Galway-based musician Áine Tyrell and youth poet Princess Mimi Chukwudi.

“At a time when it's easy to feel overwhelmed by global turbulence, this conversation offers an opportunity to reflect on how culture, community, creativity and active citizenship can help us respond with courage, imagination, practical action and hope,” said Ruairí McKiernan.

The public conversation event forms part of the Galway Climate Inspirations Festival 2026 which runs from Wednesday, June 24, to Sunday, June 28. The festival is being held at Fr. Burke Park, Galway City Museum and Eyre Square.

The five-day programme brings together artists, academics, educators, community groups, and citizens to explore practical, creative and community-led responses to climate change.

For more information, visit: www.galwayclimatefestival.ie.