Strong response to Waterford's nighttime economy pilot grant scheme

Waterford City and County Council has said applications for the Night-Time Economy (NTE) Pilot Grant, launched earlier this year, have now been reviewed and approved.

A key aim of the funding is to extend Waterford’s nighttime economy beyond weekends and into mid-week programming, as well as supporting off-season cultural activity.

A local authority spokesperson said the scheme received an excellent response from local businesses, venues, and cultural organisations, with proposals showcasing creativity and a strong commitment to enhancing Waterford’s evening and late-night offering.

A vibrant programme of events will run across September, October, and November, bringing new colour and energy to the city’s Purple Flag Zone, which represents the gold standard of the management of evening and nighttime economies.

By spreading events across quieter nights and months, the programme will be aimed at helping sustain footfall, support local businesses year-round, and provide more options for people to enjoy the city by night.

Speaking about the initiative and the response, Mayor of Waterford City and County, Cllr. Seamus Ryan said: “It is heartening to see such imaginative, immersive and ambitious events proposed by Waterford’s arts and cultural communities."

“The events that received funding will greatly enhance the city’s nighttime atmosphere and light up the city this Autumn," he said.

"Additionally, the programme itself, is a great initiative to support local talent and businesses, while giving residents and visitors alike more reasons to experience Waterford after dark."

Some of the events planned to light up Waterford city by night include immersive guided tours exploring Waterford’s history in fresh and imaginative ways; cultural and theatrical experiences, including some gothic-inspired performances in atmospheric venues and live music events from youth showcases to innovative concert formats.

There will also be inclusive events designed to make nightlife accessible to people with sensory needs and unique entertainment experiences such as wrestling shows with an Irish storytelling twist.

Michael Quinn, Director of Services with Waterford City and County Council said: “The variety and quality of events approved show the real potential to grow our nighttime economy in ways that are inclusive, exciting, and sustainable.

“Waterford City and County Council, along with our collaborative partners, is committed to making Waterford a Purple Flag exemplar, by supporting and sustaining a nighttime economy that is vibrant, diverse, safe and inviting for all who live here and all who visit.” 

Waterford’s approved events will ensure that this autumn is one to remember, showcasing the city’s creativity and making it a destination of choice for vibrant, imaginative, and safe nighttime experiences.