Blackwater Valley Opera Festival 2026

Multiple venues across the Blackwater Valley, Waterford & Cork

Ireland’s Summer Opera Festival returns in 2026, bringing world-class opera, classical music, and extraordinary performances to some of the most beautiful historic settings in the Blackwater Valley.

Set against the rolling landscapes of West Waterford and East Cork, the Blackwater Valley Opera Festival offers a unique cultural experience where music, place, and storytelling come together. From castles and churches to heritage houses and intimate rural venues, each performance is shaped by its surroundings, creating unforgettable moments for audiences of all backgrounds.

A Festival Rooted in Place and Imagination

Running from 26 May to 1 June 2026, the festival will present 24 events across 13 venues, showcasing a rich programme of opera, concerts, recitals, and special musical events. The festival is renowned for pairing emerging Irish talent with established international artists, creating performances that are both ambitious and deeply engaging.

Whether you are a lifelong opera lover or attending your first live performance, the Blackwater Valley Opera Festival offers an accessible and welcoming way to experience classical music in a relaxed and inspiring setting.

Supporting Artists, Education, and Community

At the heart of the festival is a strong commitment to education and participation. Through its outreach and education programme, Blackwater Valley Opera Festival has reached more than 7,000 students to date, introducing young people across the region to live music, opera, and the creative process.

Friends and supporters of the festival play a vital role in sustaining this work. Contributions help fund school workshops, rehearsal visits, and bursaries for emerging artists, ensuring the next generation of musicians can develop their craft and share it with new audiences.

Nurturing the Next Generation of Talent

Since 2021, the festival has awarded 43 bursaries totalling €184,500, supporting singers, musicians, and creative professionals as they progress towards national and international careers. The 2026 Bursary recipients, pianist Dida Condria and tenor Conor Prendiville, both return to the festival following acclaimed appearances in 2025, highlighting the festival’s role as a stepping stone for rising talent.

Become a Friend of the Festival

The festival’s relaunched Friends Membership programme offers supporters a closer connection to Ireland’s Summer Opera Festival, with benefits including priority booking, preferred seating, invitations to private recitals, and special briefings with the Artistic Director. More importantly, Friends help sustain the festival’s artistic, educational, and community-focused work across the Blackwater Valley. Friends Membership for the 2025/26 season opens on 22 November 2025.

Plan Your Visit

Tickets for Blackwater Valley Opera Festival 2026 go on general sale in January 2026. With performances taking place across multiple venues in Waterford and beyond, visitors are encouraged to plan ahead and explore the wider region while attending the festival.

From historic towns and villages to scenic riverside walks and local food experiences, the Blackwater Valley offers the perfect backdrop for a cultural getaway.

Event Details

Dates: 26 May – 1 June 2026
Location: Multiple venues across the Blackwater Valley, including West Waterford
Tickets: On sale January 2026
More information and full festival programme: www.blackwatervalleyopera.ie