Winterval 2026: A City Full of Christmas

Waterford is set to sparkle this Christmas as Winterval returns for six weeks of festive celebrations, transforming the city into a magical Christmas destination filled with twinkling lights, bustling markets, family adventures, live music, and seasonal entertainment.

Now in its 14th year, Ireland’s largest Christmas festival takes place from 13th of November to 23rd of December, with an exciting programme of free and ticketed events across Waterford’s historic streets, squares and venues.

Christmas Lights & Festive Illuminations

The celebrations begin on Friday, 13th November, with the official opening of Winterval and the switching on of Waterford’s Christmas lights. Enjoy music and entertainment at Broad Street and John Roberts Square from 5.30 pm, before the Mayor of Waterford City and County, Cllr Liam Brazil, and Santa Claus illuminate the city at 6 pm.

At 6.30 pm, head to Cathedral Square for the first screening of Winterval Illuminates. Sponsored by Bausch & Lomb, this spectacular free light show returns with a brand-new animation, transforming the façade of the Silver Museum through projection mapping, music, sound, and special effects. The show takes place each evening throughout Winterval.

Christmas Markets & Family Fun

The Winterval Christmas Market spreads across John Roberts Square, Arundel Square, Georges Street and O’Connel Street, with Christmas crafts, unique gifts and a delicious selection of seasonal food and drink from local, regional and national producers.

Families can look forward to Santa’s spectacular arrival on Sunday, 15th of November, at 5 pm, when his Christmas truck crosses Rice Bridge and travels along the quays to House of Waterford on the Mall. Visitors will have the opportunity to step aboard, meet Santa and capture a special photograph, with donations invited in support of LauraLynn, Ireland’s Children’s Hospice.

At the Apple Market, Santa’s Giant Disco Postbox returns with a funky new twist. Children can post their letters to the North Pole before enjoying ten-minute Christmas disco sessions every half hour from 5 pm.

Little explorers can also follow the free Viking Elf Fairy Door Trail, searching for twelve tiny doors hidden throughout the city.

For a festive film favourite, The Reg will host free screenings of Home Alone on Fridays and Saturdays at 1 pm and 3 pm, and Sundays at 1 pm, 3 pm and 5 pm. Enjoy the Christmas nostalgia with popcorn, hot chocolate for younger moviegoers and a warming glass of Glühwein for the grown-ups.

Live Music & Entertainment

Winterval 2026 features a packed programme of live music, concerts, and performances.

The Hive, a new 1,000-capacity venue on Park Road beside the People’s Park, will welcome Blindboy on 11th of December, K-Pop Superslayers Live! A Very K-POP Christmas on 12th of December, The High Kings on 18th of December, The Boomtown Rats on the 19th of December and Oasis tribute act Mad Ferritt on 2oth of December.

The Reg venue will also welcome emerging Irish folk band Out on Bale on Friday, 13th of November, from 9 pm to 11 pm.

For those who love traditional Christmas music, the festival’s choral programme includes Bach’s Christmas Oratorio at St John’s Church on 6th of December, the Winterval Massed Choirs Concert at the Cathedral of the Most Holy Trinity on 28th of November, a free Christmas Carol Concert on 12th of December and the Lumina Christmas Concert at the Franciscan Friary on 23rd of December.

The Winterval Olde Worlde Choir will also perform along the Winterval Trail from 5th to 20th of December, bringing traditional Christmas favourites to the city’s streets.

There is plenty of free live music to enjoy too, with Sounds of the Season, sponsored by WAMA (Waterford Academy of Music & Arts), showcasing local choirs, brass bands, pipe bands, stage schools and musicians at the Apple Market on Saturdays and Sundays from 1 pm to 4 pm. Buskaid will also perform in John Roberts Square on the 20th of December.

Experience Christmas in Waterford

Beyond the festive attractions, Winterval is the perfect opportunity to explore Waterford at one of the most magical times of the year. Wander through the Christmas markets, browse the city’s shops, enjoy a seasonal treat in a local café or restaurant, and discover Waterford’s historic streets dressed for Christmas.

Whether you’re planning a family day out, an evening of live entertainment or a festive weekend away, Winterval offers something for everyone.

Winterval runs throughout Waterford City on weekends and selected dates from 13th of November to 23rd of December 2026.

For the full programme, event details, and ticket information, visit www.winterval.ie