Galway is the capital of the West of Ireland. With a population of 75,414, it is the third largest and the fastest-growing city in the Republic of Ireland. Ranked as one of the 25 top destinations to visit in Europe by Trip Advisor, and only one of two Irish cities to feature in the list, Galway has simply got it all. It is renowned for its vibrant lifestyle and numerous festivals, celebrations and events.  A few of the big attractions include The Cúirt International Festival of Literature, the Galway Arts Festival, the Galway Races and the Oyster Festival they are famous throughout Ireland and beyond. Theatre lovers are particularly blessed with a number of superb theatre companies based in the city, including the world-renowned Druid Theatre Company. The state-of-the-art Town Hall Theatre was opened in 1993 and covers all aspects of the performing arts including concerts, ballet, musicals, and operas.