Things to see and do at Winterval Waterford

Winterval has really put Waterford on the map as a destination over the festive period. Winterval runs from Saturday 17th November until Sunday 23rd of December this year with loads to see and do for all the family!

The festival kicks off in JR Square with the turning on of the Christmas lights and is always a fantastic day with Santa arriving ready to meet all the children. This year music will be provided by Brass & Co. It promises to be a great afternoon of entertainment. Kids can visit Santa throughout the festival at Santa’s Grotto for a fee of only €17 per child which includes a photo and gift. It really is a fantastic place to meet Santa with the atmosphere that is created from all the other attractions at Winterval.

The city is transformed into a Winter Wonderland during Winterval. The Applemarket; in the centre of the city is transformed with festive lights, a Giant Christmas Tree and Santa’s Giant Post Box. The Applemarket has a giant mirrored Canopy, this, coupled with the festive lights makes the area look really spectacular. Music and street entertainment take place here every weekend during the festival.

Spraoi International Street Arts Festival is an award-winning street theatre and spectacle festival in Waterford held every Summer. Spraoi have created a Winter Wonderland at Wyse park which is certainly a must see! At Cathedral Square; ‘Winterval Illuminates takes place’. This is a beautiful light show projected onto a large building. This runs on specific dates from 5-8pm every 30 minutes; kids and adults will love it! Surrounding the light show are a number of Christmas Market stalls which just adds to the Christmassy atmosphere of the show.

The Igloo Stage at Constitution Square will feature musical and choral the talent over the Winterval Festival. In addition to this there a country Market located at St Olaf’s Hall.

Winterval offers lots of free activities and entertainment but there are extra activities that charge a small fee but are well worth it! During Winterval you will see the Winterval Sleigh and Winterval Express Train travelling around the city carrying very excited kids.. and sometimes the adults are just as excited as the kids!! One of the latest additions to Winterval is ‘Waterfords Eye’ which is a big ferris wheel which gives a fantastic view of the city; even if heights aren’t your thing; it would be a shame to miss out on this one. Winterval on Ice is a favourite every year with adults and kids alike. Also dotted around the city is the Christmas Carousel, mini Carousel, Vintage Ferris Wheel & Helter Skelter.

Some activities do need to be pre-booked; others can be booked on the day depending on demand of course. The family experience that Winterval provides is one all the family will enjoy. Viking Hotel Waterford is a fantastic base to enjoy all Winterval has to offer. The hotel provides free parking and is easily accessible. Food is served till 9pm daily. To celebrate Winterval this year; Viking Hotel Waterford are offering a 2-night stay with Breakfast included for 2 adults and 1 child (Under 12) for just €140 in total! (Valid Sunday to Thursday) Book your space now for your pre-Christmas Family Treat!

Call 051336933 or log onto www.vikinghotelwaterford.ie to book.