Harvest Festival Launch: “It’s about Waterford. It’s about the city, it’s about the county.

The countdown is officially on for the 2025 Waterford Harvest Festival.

The launch took place last Tuesday at Christ Church Cathedral.

Speakers on the evening were festival directors Martin Nolan and Mark Dunne, Chef and Culinary Director Keith Boyle, Taste of Waterford’s Richard Povey and Autism-Friendly Waterford’s Maolíosa Ní Chléírigh.

Speaking at the launch festival, co-director Mark Dunne said the festival is a celebration of Waterford.

“It’s about Waterford. It’s about the city, it’s about the county. It’s about the producers, the businesses, the people that live here and the people who come to visit,” said Mr Dunne.

The festival takes place from Friday, September 5, to Sunday, September 7.

Ticketed events include Faulty Towers- The Dining Experience at Dooley’s Hotel and Beats, Bites and Bubbles on John Roberts Square.

Music offerings include Mick Flannery and the Bridgerton Symphonic.

Taste of Waterford’s Richard Povey said that the county has a world-class offering, and this festival showcases all the Deise has to offer.

“To have festivals like the Waterford Harvest Festival doing the great work they do to support this is really important.

"It gives us an identity, it supports shop local, and of course, attracts thousands of visitors. It also endorses Waterford as a leading food and drink destination in Ireland,” said Mr Povey.

In addition to the ticketed events, there are free events for the whole family.

Music will be provided by John Spillane, the 80s Generation and Derek Warfield and the Young Wolf Tones.

Cllr Declan Barry and his wife Sally said there is something for everyone at the harvest festival.

“Well, if they like their food and they like their local produce, this is the place to be. Lots of activities for families for young children. It’s a whole community thing and it showcases Waterford in its best light,” said Cllr Barry.

Sally said that it is a lovely festival with something for everyone.

She said she was very impressed last year with the free family-friendly events, especially those for kids.

“It’s just a brilliant idea for a family thing. Something that’s free and that shows off Waterford City,” said Sally.

With everyone in mind, the Waterford Harvest is partnering with Autism Friendly Waterford.

Speaking at the launch, Autism Friendly Waterford’s Maolíosa Ní Chléírigh said they will be setting up a sensory area, separate queues at food stalls and creating a social story.

“So to prove once more that Waterford is Ireland's first autism-friendly city,” said Ms Ní Chléírigh.