Few bands have sustained a career as rich, fearless and celebratory as James. For the very first time James will perform in Galway at the Heineken Big Top on Thursday 23 July 2026.
For over four decades, the Manchester legends have created the anthems that have defined generations, from the euphoric Sit Down and the ecstatic Laid to soaring classics like Come Home, She’s A Star and Born of Frustration. Their songs - poetic, spiritual and joyously alive - have soundtracked countless moments of collective release.
Fresh from their sold-out recent UK arena tour and headline performances at Glastonbury, Rock in Rio and Vive Latino, James arrive at the Festival in unstoppable form for a special performance at the Heineken Big Top.
Renowned for their electrifying, unpredictable live shows, where hits are reborn, crowds become choirs and frontman Tim Booth dances like a man possessed, James continue to prove that their connection with audiences runs deeper than ever.
Their latest album Yummy (2024), which debuted at No.1 in the UK, captures a band still evolving: bold, compassionate and brilliantly inventive.
Expect a night of transcendence, nostalgia and communal euphoria as one of rock’s most enduring and beloved live acts take the stage.
Accessibility and seating: wheelchair accessible, dedicated accessible raised ramp (please note the area can be reserved for people with mobility issues through our box office). Please contact the box office in advance
Disabled Parking Spots: Cathedral Square car park (3), disabled parking on University of Galway campus is marked in the following map: parking locations map and blue badge owners can park anywhere on campus.
Toilets: accessible toilet is located at the rear of the Big Top. GIAF volunteers are on hand to facilitate entrance to the accessibility area.
