Opening of brand new art gallery takes place during Waterford's Comeraghs Wild Festival

Waterford’s Comeraghs Wild Festival returns from this July 10 to 13 with a rich line-up of heritage and history events that showcase the region’s deep cultural roots and dynamic storytelling traditions.

During the festival, Kilmacthomas will unveil a stunning new chapter in its cultural life with the opening of the 8 Arch Gallery, located in the beautifully restored Old Woollen Mill.

Once a powerhouse of local industry, the mill is now reimagined as a creative hub, launching with an inspiring exhibition of works by some of Ireland’s most respected living artists.

Meanwhile, in Portlaw, the past comes vividly to life with a series of events marking 200 years since the arrival of the Malcolmson family and the transformation of the village into a thriving centre of cotton production.

Renowned historian Dr. Tom Hunt will deliver a talk on the village’s industrial journey, hosted in Portlaw Heritage Centre. 

Visitors can then lace up their walking shoes for an immersive heritage walk through the village’s historic heart.

Rathgormack invites cinema lovers and locals to gather for a special photographic exhibition commemorating 50 years since the filming in the Comeraghs of Stanley Kubrick’s masterpiece, Barry Lyndon.

Author and performer Terri Ryan will bring her inimitable blend of humour, folklore, and song to Micilín’s Bar in Kilrossanty, and for those who prefer a more hands-on connection to heritage, expert craftswoman Margaret Ryan will lead a wet felting workshop in Kilmacthomas. 

Participants will learn this ancient textile art and create their own felted piece using soft, locally sourced Comeragh wool.

For a true taste of the Comeraghs, Cooney’s Yard will host a lively outdoor BBQ showcasing succulent Comeragh lamb, with fire-grilled flavours, local produce, live music, and fireside stories. 

For more information check out comeraghswild.com