Pearse Stadium Galway — Home of Galway GAA in Scenic Salthill

Pearse Stadium (Páirc an Phiarsaigh) is the proud home of Galway GAA, situated in the beautiful coastal suburb of Salthill with views over Galway Bay. Named after Pádraig Pearse, the 1916 Easter Rising leader and passionate champion of Irish language and culture, the stadium opened in 1957 and has a current certified capacity of 26,197 spectators. The Salthill location gives Pearse Stadium one of the most scenic settings of any GAA ground in Ireland — the approach along the famous Salthill Promenade is a uniquely enjoyable pre-match experience for supporters. A major renovation in 2002 delivered a new 8,000-seat covered stand and improved facilities. In December 2024, after more than a decade of planning and community consultation, new energy-efficient floodlights were installed, enabling the stadium's first evening championship and league fixtures in its history. The first night matches in the National League were played in January 2025, opening an exciting new chapter for Galway GAA and Pearse Stadium.

The ground was officially opened on 16 June 1957 with an initial capacity of 16,000. The name Páirc an Phiarsaigh was chosen in honour of Pádraig Pearse (1879–1916), a teacher, poet, barrister, and leader of the Easter Rising who was executed by British forces on 3 May 1916. The decision to name the stadium after Pearse was made by a committee of GAA trustees and Galway Corporation members. The stadium was significantly enlarged over subsequent decades, with a major renovation in 2002 delivering a new 8,000-seat stand and enhanced facilities. Following the GAA's 2011 nationwide health and safety survey, the certified capacity was reduced from 34,000 to the current 26,197. In 2024, Galway GAA submitted plans for floodlight installation, receiving €350,000 in sports capital funding. The new floodlight system became operational in December 2024, transforming the ground's potential for evening events.

Pearse Stadium on a big Connacht Championship day brings Galway city to life. Supporters arrive in the stadium's coastal suburb from across the county, with the Salthill Prom providing one of the most atmospheric pre-match walks in GAA. Inside, the ground generates a passionate and vocal atmosphere for both hurling and football fixtures. The new floodlights add a dramatic evening dimension to the match-day experience for night fixtures from 2025 onward.

Stadium tours are available by arrangement with Galway GAA on non-match days. Contact galway@gaa.ie or visit galway.gaa.ie to arrange a visit.

No permanent museum is located within the stadium. Galway GAA maintains historical records and memorabilia. Contact Galway GAA for information about accessing historical archives.