Waterford hosts 'Bright and Green' Christmas festivals conference
Delegates at the conference also enjoyed Winterval in Waterford city. Photo: Patrick Browne
Waterford recently played host to one of Europe’s most prestigious sustainable festival conferences, ‘Bright and Green Christmas in European Towns’, to share experience and innovation in building greener, more community-focused festivals.
The two-day event brought together Europe’s foremost sustainable festival experts, and delegates were treated to insights and guidance on international collaboration, funding streams, and best-practice from recognised European Capitals of Christmas.
Following a series of presentations and workshops on festival sustainability with keynote speakers Gawain Morrison, Rob Van Wegan, Tim Benson, and JB Dubois, the festival was closed out by Deputy Mayor of the Metropolitan District, Cllr. Lola O’Sullivan.
Cllr. O’ Sullivan said, “Over the past two days, we have been treated to an inspiring showcase of ideas, insights, and innovations. We have heard passionate voices sharing how each of us, as citizens of this planet, can spark positive change… change that will help us build a thriving, sustainable world for ourselves, for our children, and for generations to come.
“For those here who run festivals, or hope to run festivals in the future, I hope you leave not only informed but uplifted and energised by the creativity and optimism that has filled the room over the last two days.”
Delegates also took the European City of Christmas Sustainability Pledge, reaffirming the network’s collective commitment to building a resilient, responsible and future-focused festival sector.
Cllr. O’ Sullivan commended the network on its commitment to the pledge, saying, “This pledge reminds us that together, we can achieve so much. By sharing responsibility, sharing ideas, and sharing best practices, we can embrace the principles of reducing, reusing, preserving, and respecting our environment.”
The delegates, including the Mayors of Medina de Rioseco in Spain, Legrad in Croatia and Broccostalla in Italy and the Municipalities of Soalhes, Benfica and Ben Viber in Portugal, along with Alberto Gutiérrez, President of Christmas Cities Network, then took time to soak up the festive Winterval atmosphere.
