Waterford Other Christmas Activities 2026

Winterval, Ireland's premier Christmas festival and the European City of Christmas, transforms Waterford into a magical wonderland. This expansive celebration features over 60 attractions, including live music, artisan markets, ice skating, and enchanting light displays. Visitors can meet Santa, enjoy...

Immerse yourself in the holiday spirit at the Waterford Lions Club Christmas Carol Concert, a cherished tradition now in its 36th year. Held at the stunning Cathedral of the Most Holy Trinity, this free event features a captivating orchestral and...

Soaring above the city skyline, the Port of Waterford Eye is a magical festival landmark offering breathtaking panoramic views. Visitors can gaze upon the sparkling Winterval lights, the River Suir, and Waterford's historic streets from this iconic attraction. It's a...

A quest at City Square Shopping Centre involves finding 12 hidden Viking Elves using a map. Completed maps can be traded for a lollipop.

Winterval's Snowball Fighting takes place inside a giant inflatable dome. This indoor play experience allows participants to have a snowball fight without the cold in a warm, dry setting.

Santa's Giant Disco Postbox is a tradition where letters to the North Pole can be sent. Every 30 minutes, the giant postbox transforms into a mini disco party with dancing, lights, and smoke effects for 10 minutes.

Santa's Magical Sleigh Ride is a virtual reality experience transporting guests to the North Pole for a 4D sleigh ride with visuals, motion, and sound.

A Christmas trail through Waterford's historic museums invites families to solve clues about holiday traditions. The trail starts at the Medieval Museum and offers a chance to win a prize.

The Winterval Light Up Ceremony marks the start of the event with the Mayor and Santa Claus illuminating Waterford City. Live entertainment and music begin at 5:30 PM, leading to the countdown and switch-on at 6:00 PM.

The Snowball Stage in Constitution Square is a community hub for Winterval. It hosts local talent, including brass bands and choirs, every weekend afternoon.

The Bishop's Palace is decorated for a Victorian Christmas. Head Housekeeper Mrs. Rickards leads tours explaining Christmas traditions and local secrets.

Local historian Julian Walton discusses the Whitfield family, prominent in Waterford since 1666, sharing anecdotes about their lives and local history.

The Winterval Fairground is located in Waterford City Centre. It features classic fairground rides such as the Helter Skelter, Golden Gallopers Vintage Carousel, and a Vintage Ferris Wheel.

Christmas Churchyard Sessions is a free outdoor music event at the 15th-century French Church in Waterford. The Knockadollys play Irish and Folk music, and The Papa Zitas play 1960s Motown.

The Elves Workshop is a family activity where children assist Santa's helpers. Activities include baking cookies, arts and crafts, and compiling Santa's list. Proceeds benefit the Irish Red Cross Waterford City Branch.

Santa's Grotto at Winterval is located in underground caverns beneath Waterford's Medieval Museum. Children meet Santa, play games, receive a gift, and families get a photograph.

Winterval's Gingerbread Making Workshop in Constitution Square allows children and families to decorate gingerbread creations. The 60-minute sessions include take-home items.

The Winterval Mini Express is a road train tour through Waterford. The route passes the Christmas Market, the Port of Waterford Eye, and Winterval on Ice.

Children aged 5-12 can create and decorate holiday wreaths at free, hands-on workshops led by WAMA at the WCQ Place. All materials are provided for these beginner-friendly sessions.

The Barrow Princess offers 75-minute Winterval Wonderland and Santa Cruises on the River Suir, with city views and seasonal refreshments for purchase.

The 'Winterval Olde Worlde Choir' performs classic carols in traditional attire by candlelight. Scheduled performances and walkabouts occur throughout the evening.

Santa Claus arrives in Kilkenny by boat and through the city streets to launch Yulefest 2026 and light the Christmas tree. The Yulefest Christmas Market also opens, featuring seasonal food and artisan crafts.

Santa and Mrs. Claus arrive in Kilkenny on the Santa Truck, with a grotto at the final stop. Donations benefit LauraLynn Children's Hospice.

The Christmas Jumper Junior Parkrun is a free 2k event for juniors aged 4 to 14 at Kilkenny Countryside Park. Participants are encouraged to wear Christmas jumpers for spot prizes.

Experience the magic of the holiday season at the Talbot Hotel Carlow with their special Santa Experience. This event offers a delightful opportunity for families to create lasting memories, including a festive breakfast with Santa himself. Immerse yourselves in the...

Discover the magic of Santa's season at the award-winning Clanard Court Hotel in County Kildare. They offer two enchanting experiences: an overnight 'Sleep Over' with a magical trail, festive banquet, and Santa's show, or a 'Dine, Show & Santa Visit'...

Winterval transforms Waterford into a festive wonderland with a spectacular Choral Trail. Experience Handel's 'Samson,' Karl Jenkins' 'The Armed Man,' and the beloved film 'Home Alone' with a live orchestral score. Enjoy free concerts, artisan markets, ice skating, and Santa's...

The Jingle Bells Cycle is a 2km, family-friendly ride through Waterford City Centre for decorated bikes and cyclists, ending at Cathedral Square. Prizes are awarded for best decorations.

Experience the enchantment of Christmas in Kilkenny aboard the Yulefest Christmas Train. This beautifully decorated festive ride, led by Santa’s Chief Elf, offers a magical 20-minute journey through the city's historic streets. Enjoy a specially created 'Christmas in Kilkenny' story...

Experience the vibrant Yulefest Live Music Stage, offering free entertainment every weekend throughout the festive season. Located in the Yulefest Marquee at the heart of the Christmas Market on The Parade in Kilkenny city, it features a dynamic lineup of...

Journey through Rathwood's enchanted forest on the magical Rathwood Express to meet Santa and his elves. This immersive experience, brought to life by the creators of The Late Late Toy Show, features a festive train ride, a spectacular musical show,...

Escape to Fota Island Resort for a magical Christmas experience in County Cork, Ireland. This luxurious retreat offers a festive haven with twinkling lights and enchanting decorations. Create cherished holiday memories with sumptuous dining, relaxing spa treatments, and serene garden...

Give the gift of unforgettable moments this festive season with Christmas Gift Vouchers from Fota Island Resort. Treat loved ones to a luxurious escape surrounded by the natural beauty of County Cork, Ireland. Vouchers unlock a world of indulgence and...

Discover the festive operating hours for Fota Island Resort during the Christmas season. Plan your holiday visits to this charming Irish destination, ensuring you don't miss out on any special seasonal offerings. Check their schedule to make the most of...