Waterford prepares to celebrate Culture Night with FREE events planned
Late-night Theatre Royal takeover, Music and Poetry in Motion and a new Festival Tasters strand are set to form part of the big night
Culture Night is set to return to Waterford on Friday, September 18, bringing a slew of cultural activities to venues, streets and unexpected locations across the Déise.
As in previous years, Culture Night 2026 will be stewarded by the Arts Council in partnership with local authorities across the country.
In addition, this year’s Waterford programme is coordinated by the Culture Night Waterford team on behalf of Waterford City and County Council Arts Office.
“This year’s programme brings together venue-led events throughout the city and county, a new Festival Tasters strand introducing audiences to some of the region’s flagship arts festivals, and a directly programmed outdoor stage at the Apple Market, alongside a full evening of activity across Waterford’s Cultural Quarter,” details the local authority.
Highlights!
Bop ar an Trá 9:30pm - 11:30pm
“An Bop Mór” is a music event taking place on Ballynagall Beach in An Rinn, where Local musician Morgan de Míonbhíol will be taking centre stage. “It promises to be a vibrant night that brings the community together to celebrate the Irish language and Gaeltacht culture on the Déise coast,” reads the Culture Night website.
The event is labeled as 18+ and booking is required.
Music and Poetry in Motion 6pm-9pm
The public can even enjoy a performance on their local city bus during this Culture night. “Local artists will entertain while you travel along Waterford City’s streets. A journey that is good for the soul and the environment,” the dedicated Culture Night website details.
The event is open to all ages and booking is required.
Theatre Vestibule at Theatre Royal 10:30pm - 12:30am
This event includes a soundtrack curated by Harry O’Neill of Luca Records and Decks and is set to feature a headline performance from the Slinkies. According to the Culture Night website, Alien: Nation as well as The Haus of Goofy will also take over the Vestibule on the night.
The event is open to all ages and no booking is required.
Click here for a full list of events taking place on Culture Night 2026.