Ireland’s oldest city comes alive with the launch of Winterval
Tonight, Ireland’s oldest city embraced the festive spirit with the spectacular launch of Winterval 2025, the country’s largest Christmas festival. Recognised as the European City of Christmas, Waterford set the stage for over a month long festival.
Trevor Darmody, Festival Director of Winterval, said, “This year’s Winterval is a true celebration of Ireland’s Christmas spirit. We’re bringing the magic of the season to life with something for everyone…from the lights switch-on to Ireland’s biggest drone show, from markets and workshops to live entertainment across the city. Waterford is proud to host Ireland’s Christmas Festival, and we can’t wait to welcome visitors from near and far to share in the joy in our European City of Christmas.”
Winterval 2025 blends old-traditions with exciting new attractions. Returning this year are the Christmas Markets, Santa’s Grotto, and the always-popular Winterval Express Train. A highlight of the opening weekend will be the Winterval Sky Spectacular Drone Show on *(rescheduled for Sunday, November 23rd at 7:00 PM) This free event will feature 150 illuminated drones dancing across the night sky above the River Suir in a breathtaking display of colour and movement. Families are invited to gather along the quayside for the best views of this dazzling performance.
The reimagined Winterval Light Show has taken over the Clock Tower area, wowing audiences with its stunning projections. Local artisans and food vendors will ensure that every corner of Winterval exudes Christmas charm, making it a sensory delight for all ages.
Running until December 23rd, Winterval 2025 offers more than 50 festive events and attractions designed to delight families and visitors of all ages. Highlights include the Winterval Christmas Markets with over 100,000 sparkling lights, the Winterval Circus, Port of Waterford Eye, Santa’s Grotto in the 12th-century underground caverns beneath the Medieval Museum, the Glow Fairylight Garden powered by Encon, the Winterval Fairground, the Winterval Cruises on the River Suir, and a host of new experiences such as the indoor Snowball Play Fun dome, Concious Crafting Workshops and Gingerbread Making Workshops.
Visitors are encouraged to plan their trip in advance, as weekends promise to be bustling. Accommodation options range from cosy B&Bs to hotels, all within walking distance of the festival’s main attractions.
Whether you’re a local or a visitor, Winterval 2025 will be the perfect way to enjoy the festive season. Don’t miss your chance to experience why Waterford is the European City of Christmas. 🌟
