Spotlight on: Waterford Walls Festival

Every August, Waterford’s streets burst into colour as the city transforms into an open-air gallery. Waterford Walls, Ireland’s largest street art festival, brings together local and international artists to paint the city in bold, imaginative ways. What began in 2015 as a grassroots initiative has grown into a world-renowned celebration of creativity, helping to reimagine urban space and connect communities through art.

A Festival Like No Other

Set against the medieval backdrop of Ireland’s oldest city, Waterford Walls has become a much-loved fixture on the cultural calendar. Over the course of a week, visitors can watch artists at work, transforming dull walls and forgotten corners into vibrant murals. From hyper-realistic portraits to abstract explosions of colour, each piece tells a story and adds a new dimension to the city’s character.

But Waterford Walls is more than just art on walls — it’s a community experience. Guided street art tours, live music, workshops and pop-up events mean there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re an art enthusiast, a curious visitor or a local rediscovering your hometown, the festival offers fresh inspiration at every turn.

Art With Impact

The power of Waterford Walls lies not just in its beauty but in its legacy. Over the years, the festival has created more than 200 murals throughout the city and county, many of which remain as permanent installations. These artworks have helped reinvigorate public spaces, support local businesses and offer a platform for important conversations — from mental health to environmental change.

Street art, by its nature, is democratic. It’s art for everyone, without barriers or admission fees. Waterford Walls embraces this spirit wholeheartedly, bringing people together in shared appreciation and sparking joy in unexpected places.

Renowned Artists & Established Festival Favourites

Each year, Waterford Walls attracts a dazzling mix of celebrated street artists from across the globe. These creators don’t just paint murals — they shape conversations, spark imagination and leave behind vibrant legacies. Here are some renowned names who have left their mark on the city:

• Blackdoors (France) – Specialising in tilework and mosaics, bringing tactile, interactive dimension to Waterford’s streets.

• Rocket01 (UK) – Famed for his vivid geometric abstractions and striking use of colour and contrast.

• Mister Copy (Italy) – Muralist with a bold, graphic style often focused on animals and environmental urgency.

• Andrey Palval (Ukraine) – Artist whose moving triptych “The Birds” reflects themes of migration and freedom.

And SO MANY MORE!

These incredible artists:

• Bring diverse styles, from photorealism to abstract, from British stencil to ecological realism.

• Amplify Waterford’s cultural identity on an international stage — their murals remain long after the festival ends.

• Bring themes — human stories, environment, local identity — often spark conversation and connection throughout the city.

Don’t Miss It

This year’s festival promises another stunning lineup of artists and events, with painting taking place in both the city and selected locations across County Waterford. Keep an eye out for:

• Live mural painting sessions with over 25 artists

• Street art tours led by expert guides

• Workshops for all ages in spray painting, stencil art and more

• Community art projects connecting residents and artists

• After-hours events, music and food pop-ups

Whether you’re visiting Waterford for the first time or returning to see what’s new, Waterford Walls invites you to explore the city with fresh eyes — and perhaps find a new favourite mural around the next corner.

Plan Your Trip

Many events are free, and maps of mural locations will be available online and at key locations around the city. For a full programme, artist announcements and booking details, visit waterfordwalls.ie.

We’ll meet you there!