Opening Ceremony, Plenary, and Welcome Reception
Sunday 28 June from 17:00 pm –21:30 pm at Bailey Allen Hall, Alumni Plaza / Aras na MacLeinn
Join us in Galway for a vibrant programme of social events throughout IAMCR 2026. From the opening reception to the conference dinner and informal gatherings across the city, these events offer opportunities to connect with colleagues, strengthen international networks, and experience the warmth, culture, and hospitality of Ireland’s west coast.
IAMCR’s social events are an important part of the conference experience — spaces where conversations continue beyond panels and presentations, new collaborations begin, and friendships within our global community grow.
More information about each event, including venues, schedules, and booking details, will be available below.
Conference dinner
Wednesday 1 July from 18h00 - late
The Galmont Hotel
Join colleagues and friends for an unforgettable evening at the IAMCR 2026 Conference Dinner at the Galmont Hotel in the heart of Galway. Set in a warm and welcoming atmosphere, the dinner offers a special opportunity to continue conversations beyond the conference sessions, strengthen international connections, and enjoy an evening of Irish hospitality, local culture, and live music.
More than simply a shared meal, the conference dinner is one of the highlights of the IAMCR experience each year, bringing together participants from around the world in a relaxed and celebratory setting.
Spaces are limited, so participants are encouraged to reserve their place early.
Dinner ticket for conference participants: €45
Guest dinner tickets: €120
Conference dinner tickets can be purchased at the time of registration. Participants who have already registered and wish to purchase a dinner ticket can contact iamcr2026@abbey.ie.
Section and Working Group gatherings
Many IAMCR Sections and Working Groups will host informal meetups and social gatherings throughout the conference. Join your group for an evening of conversation, networking, and community beyond the conference sessions.
Digital Divide Working Group
Monday 29 June
18:30-21:00
Media, Communication and Sport Section
Monday 29 June
18:30
Location: Merchant Restaurant at Eyre Square Hotel
Participatory Communication Research Section
Monday 29 June
18:00
Community Communication and Alternative Media Section
Monday 29 June
18:00
An Púcán, Forster Street
Gender and Communication Section
Monday 29 June
18:00
Music, Audio, Radio and Sound Working Group
Monday 29 June
18:00
Islam and Media Working Group
Monday 29 June
19:00
Environment, Science, and Risk Communication Section
Monday 29 June
18:00
Location: The Quays on Quay Street
Organisational Communication Working Group
Monday 29 June
17:30
Location: High Café. 2 High Street, Galway
Communication, Social Justice and Democracy Working Group
Monday 29 June
18:30-20:30
Location: The Skeff Bar and Kitchen
Please register here to help us estimate attendance numbers.: CJD Social Event @ The Skeff (IAMCR Galway
Diaspora and Media Working Group
Monday 29 June
18.30
Location: Seven Bridgestreet pub. 5-7 Bridge St, Galway, H91 A588.
Communication Policy and Technology Section
Monday 29 June
18:30
Location: Busker Brownes, 3-5 Cross Street Upper
Political Communication Research Section
Monday 29 June
19:00
Location: Seven Bridgestreet pub. 5-7 Bridge St, Galway, H91 A588.
History Section
Monday 29 June
19:00
Location: Merchant Restaurant at Eyre Square Hotel Foster Street.
