Winter is a special time in Waterford. The city has a very special sparkle and is full of excited shoppers, festive family fun and plenty to see and do. Winterval is back in Waterford this year from Friday, November 19th until Thursday, December 23rd celebrating 9 years in operation. Combine your Winterval visit with a stay in Viking Hotel with our very special Festive Spirit Package. Christmas in Waterford doesn’t get any better than that!
Winterval Festival
From 19th November, Waterford will be transformed into a winter wonderland with the return of the much-loved Winterval Festival. This year promises to be better than ever with a new lineup of entertainment, shopping and attractions. This year the theme of Winterval is ‘Celebrate Together’, encouraging the coming together of families, friends and communities after a long period of being apart. It’s a perfect place to create new memories with those we love, memories which we’ll treasure forever. The organisers are combining traditional and modern entertainment to create a very unique atmosphere for all ages.
Market Quarter
It wouldn’t be Christmas without a Christmas Market and Winterval always delivers. Shopping in Waterford is a unique experience no matter what time of the year you visit but Christmas allows local and independent traders to shine. Soak up the festive atmosphere while you browse dozens of Christmas craft and food stalls, all while supporting local, regional and national producers. You’ll find everything you need for Christmas at the market with plenty of homemade decorations, gift ideas, toys and crafts and so much more. You’re sure to find something truly unique for your loved ones, or yourself!
Another great shopping experience in Winterval is the gorgeous farmers market in the Apple Market. Every weekend you can support local growers and producers and pick up some high-quality home-grown food and drink. Bring your dancing shoes and enjoy live music and dancing in the Apple Market Sunday Sessions.
Family Quarter
We have no shortage of family activities in Waterford this Winter. Bring your little ones (and those young at heart) to Elfstival, the only place to be for winter family entertainment this year. Take a family photo with Winterval’s giant Elf, enjoy an afternoon of fun on the children’s amusement rides and post your Santa letters directly to the north pole in Winterval’s Giant Post Box. It wouldn’t be a trip to Winterval without seeing the big man himself. Book your VIP Santa experience at The Old Postal Sorting Centre for an afternoon you won’t forget. Be sure to visit Ireland’s Largest Christmas Tree right at the centre of this year’s Ireland’s Largest Christmas Festival.
Christmas events in Waterford
Aside from the fantastic market and the gorgeous festive spirit in the air, there are plenty of events to enjoy in Waterford. The historic Viking Triangle will be transformed into the Winterval Events Quarter with hero-events including Petstival, Ar Ais le Chéile (Irish Language Area celebrating Gaeltacht na nDéise), Kids Lab-Land, WAMA-palooza & The Winter Palace. Tickets for the festive shows are limited and in demand so make sure to book soon. Check their website for terms, conditions and covid safe procedures.
Winter Accommodation in Waterford
Winter is busy in the city and accommodation can be hard to find last minute. Book your stay in Viking Hotel Waterford as soon as possible to avoid disappointment. Our staff have worked hard to put together a very special ‘Winter Festive Spirit’ package so you can enjoy the best of Waterford this Christmas. The package includes:
- An overnight stay in a comfortable and spacious bedroom in Viking Hotel, 10 minutes drive from Winterval.
- Full Irish breakfast in The Wooden Pestle.
- Our best rate guarantee – €10 per night cheaper when you book direct.
- Hot whiskey or hot port and mince pies upon arrival.
- Free parking and wi-fi.
- Free cancellation up to 4pm day prior to arrival.
Remember our best available rates and special offers like our Festive Spirit package are only available when you book direct. Check out our suggested holiday itineraries for more great activities in Waterford. We’re looking forward to welcoming you to Waterford for a getaway you won’t forget.
