A full breakdown of what to expect from Winterval
The Winterval Express conductor Jamie Drohan. Photo Patrick Browne.
Winterval 2025 runs from November 21 to December 23, and offers a packed schedule of over 50 events.
The festivities will begin in John Roberts Square with the official turning on of the Christmas lights at 6pm.
Mayor, Cllr. Séamus Ryan will join Santa Claus for the countdown to illuminate the city, including a special performance by Glenn Murphy.
Following the switch-on, festivalgoers can continue their evening with the first showing of Winterval Illuminates in Cathedral Square at 6.30pm.
On Saturday, November 22 at 7pm, 150 illuminated drones will take to the night sky over the River Suir, in a free event taking place as part of Winterval.
The Winterval Sky Spectacular Drone Show will involve drones performing choreographed formations that include swirling snowflakes, twinkling stars, and other festive shapes, all set to a festive soundtrack.
The event is free to attend and best viewed from the quayside in Waterford City.
Trevor Darmody, Festival Director of Winterval, said: “Bringing Ireland’s biggest drone show to Waterford is an exciting milestone for Winterval. The display over the River Suir combines cutting-edge technology with festive storytelling."
The Winterval Christmas Market and Glow Fairylight Garden, will remain open until 8pm, while Santa’s Giant Disco Postbox in Arundel Square, will have festive fun every half hour throughout the festival.
Winterval Illuminates will run nightly in Cathedral Square, transforming the Silver Museum façade into a dazzling light and music spectacle.
The market this year stretches from Michael Street through John Roberts’ Square onto George’s Street through Hanover Street and onto O’Connell Street and Gladstone Street, incorporating key locations such as Arundel Square, Cathedral Square, and Garter Lane.
There will be over 100 food, craft, and drink producers from local, regional, and national creators.
Waterford’s craft heritage shines brightly at Garter Lane Gallery, where more than 40 local makers presenting jewellery, ceramics, candles, soaps, leatherware, knittedwear, wood-turned gifts, and much more.
The food and drinks offering will include vendors such as Rom’s Crepes, SugarMama Grills, BadBoy BBQ, Pipers Churros, Dinky Doughnuts, Oh So Chocolate’s gourmet hot chocolates, and Papa’s Mulled Wines. Additional gift options include Sperrins Country Wear, El Dragonfly woollen accessories, Lismore Candles, Churchhouse Pottery, Native American crafts, and hand-knitwear and jewellery from local artisans like Becky and Gina Kinsella.
