Winterval 2018

It’s the most wonderful time of the year…. And even better, Winterval, the largest Christmas festival in Ireland is back. The 2018 edition looks to be the best yet. So what festive delights are in store for visitors to Waterford between November 17th and December 23rd. Here are some of our highlights…
 
The party will begin in earnest on Saturday the 17th of November. Kirsten Mate Maher, the International Rose of Tralee will help the Mayor turn on the city’s lights. And Santa Claus will arrive in the city to a festive soundtrack provided by top notch local bands. Find out more here.
 

Santa Claus is coming to town

 

 
The man himself will be taking up residence in the Old Sorting Office. The Enchanted Christmas is a brand new Santa experience for Winterval this year. This is guaranteed to be a magical and memorable experience, creating memories which will last a lifetime. On Thursday 13th of December there will be an autism friendly evening where children can meet Santa in a calm and relaxing environment.  Find out more here.
 
The organisers have thought of everything and a special Toddlers’ Chill Out Zone will have toys and games suitable for under 5s, should the excitement of Winterval get too much for little ones. For details see here.
 
Sample the unique tastes and smells of a Polish Christmas, with Waterford’s Polish community. You could even learn how to make some traditional Gingerbread. Find out more here.
 

A partridge in a pear tree…

 

 
Over 12 days of Winterval look out for a unique happening, based on each of the 12 gifts from the popular song. From spoken word to string quartets and brass bands, and from street theatre to ceili’s and drumming, there’ll be something for everyone to enjoy. We are curious about the geese a-laying though. Find out more here.
 

Get your skates on

 
Channel your inner Torvill and Dean at Winterval on Ice. Or just cling on the the railing for dear life. Either option is guaranteed to give you lots of laughs and a good workout. Get more information here.
 
This is only a small snippet of some of the fantastic festive events taking place across Waterford for Winterval 2018. See www.winterval.ie for the full programme.  
 
To find out what’s on near you visit InspireMe.ie. And of course don’t forget to sign up to get reminders of these great events.
Finally all details were correct at time of publication. But please check with local organisers before you travel.