Winterval 2026: What’s on in Waterford city this weekend as festival gets underway
The Winterval Festival is continuing in Waterford city today on what is the first weekend of the festive season
Winterval 2026 got underway in Waterford city yesterday evening with the switching on of the Christmas lights and a whole host of other events.
The festival is continuing in the city today on what is the first weekend of the festive season.
Here’s your full guide to what’s on in Waterford this weekend…
Visit Santa
Santa's Grotto returns to one of the most unique locations in Ireland – the historic 12th-century underground caverns beneath Waterford's Medieval Museum.
Set within these remarkable medieval chambers, families can enjoy a special visit with Santa Claus in a setting unlike any other Christmas grotto in the country. The intimate atmosphere of the caverns creates a magical backdrop for children to share their Christmas wishes and meet Santa up close.
While waiting for their visit, children can enjoy a selection of festive games and activities before meeting Santa. Every child will receive a gift from Santa, and each family will receive a printed photograph to take home as a keepsake of their visit.
Designed to be both memorable and affordable, Santa's Grotto at Winterval offers a charming Christmas experience in a truly distinctive location that can only be found in Waterford.
Tickets are on sale now. As places are limited, families are encouraged to book early.
Winterval Illuminates
Each evening of Winterval, come back to Cathedral Square for this unique and wonderful festive light show.
A firm favourite with Winterval audiences, this year's brand new show will be full of magic and music, and is sure to be lots of fun! So get ready to enjoy this custom made projection mapping Christmas animation.
The face of the Silver Museum building will come to life at nightfall with an explosion of light, sound, special effects and, of course, the projection show.
This feast for all the senses promises to be an event not to be missed for audiences of all ages, and it’s free!
Mini Express Train
Hop on board the magical Winterval Mini Express, a road train that takes you on an fun-filled journey through the historic streets of Waterford.
See the Winterval attractions such as the Helter-skelter and Carousel, The Winterval Christmas Market, The Port of Waterford Eye, Winterval on Ice, and Santa's Giant Bauble.
Our Winterval train departs every 15 mins and operates from 11am to 8pm every Saturday, and 12pm to 8pm on Sundays throughout Winterval.
Pick Up & Drop Off: Gladstown Street, Waterford. €5 per person. Please expect delays at peak times.
Winterval On Ice
The coolest attraction is the hottest ticket in town for the annual Winterval Festival, as the ultimate skating experience returns with Winterval on Ice to the city’s quayside.
Winterval on Ice is situated in the heart of Waterford City and brings the magic of the North Pole to the South East, ensuring an exceptional and fun-filled experience for all levels of ice skaters.
Winterval on Ice will be on hand to make your skating day out one to remember. Catering to all, penguin skating aids will be provided for the little ones, along with trained ice marshals and helpful skating staff all working together to ensure a safe and fun day out for families, large groups and school groups.
Best prices are available by pre-booking online and sometimes sell out quickly so advance booking is advised. Tickets on sale now!
The Christmas Market
Join us at the heart of Waterford City for the centrepiece of Ireland’s largest Christmas Festival, The Christmas Market At Winterval.
Soak up the sparkly Christmas atmosphere and yuletide spirit, browse the many Christmas craft and food stalls and support local, regional and national producers, makers and creators this festive season. The Christmas Market at Winterval is spread throughout John Roberts Square, Arundel Square, Georges Street, and O'Connell Street in the heart of Waterford City.
The market is open from 11am to 8pm on Saturday and Sundays.
Snowball Fighting
Step into our giant inflatable snowball dome for a flurry of festive fun – without the frostbite! Snowball Fighting is an indoor play experience where soft, playful (and not-so-real!) snowballs are flying and laughter fills the air.
Perfect for kids and grown-ups alike, this is your chance to enjoy all the fun of a snowball fight – minus the cold and wet! It's a safe, silly, and joy-filled activity the whole family will love.
All this wintry excitement for just €2 per person – located on Michael Street.
Sounds of the Season
Join us at The Apple Market for 'Sounds Of The Season', a festive programme of live community performances featuring choirs, brass bands, pipe bands, stage schools, music schools and performers from across Waterford.
Come along from 1pm to 4pm and enjoy the festive sounds at Christmas surrounded by the magic of Winterval.
Whether you’re tapping your feet, singing along, or simply taking in the joyful atmosphere, Sounds Of The Season — sponsored by WAMA (Waterford Academy of Music & Arts) — is the perfect spot to celebrate community and Christmas cheer.
The Waterford Eye
Soaring once again above the city skyline, a Winterval icon returns. The Waterford Eye sits once again on our City quayside for another magical season.
As part of Winterval’s sparkling city fairground, The Waterford Eye offers breathtaking panoramic views of the festival lights, the River Suir, and the city’s historic streets — a must-do experience for visitors of all ages.
You’ll find The Waterford Eye on the Quay. Tickets are available at the on-site kiosk.
Movies @ The Reg
Make some magical Christmas memories at The Reg Venue as we bring the festive favourite Home Alone to the big screen throughout Winterval! ️Gather the family, grab your seats, and settle in for a cosy cinema experience filled with laughter, nostalgia and Christmas cheer.
Plenty of seating, popcorn and hot chocolate for the little ones, and a warming glass of Glühwein for the big kids!
With our warm, welcoming atmosphere, The Reg is the perfect place to escape the winter chill and enjoy a festive treat with family and friends.
SHOWTIMES - Saturday: 1pm & 3pm, Sunday: 1pm, 3pm & 5pm.
Grab the gang, and make The Reg part of your Winterval traditions. Because Christmas just wouldn't be Christmas without Home Alone!