Now in its sixth year, Winterval will return once more as the place magical memories are made. Last year 650,000 visitors explored the enchanted streets of Waterford to experience the magic of Christmas.
This year, Winterval has announced over 45 different fun events including 20 new events and attractions alongside festival favourites to ensure a sparkling programme. Over half of the exciting activities are free events, as well as a range of ticketed events. In 2017, Winterval will shine brighter than ever with fun for families, couples and groups of friends looking for the happiest of festive experiences.
Every year, there has been a huge range of events, some are ticketed, but so many are free for visitors to enjoy – and this year, we’re extending the offering to over 45 events in the city including 20 new events.
These new events include:
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The spectacular Santa’s Kingdom located in the Old Sorting Office on High Street is a real treat for all the family with the awestruck amazement in every child’s eye a thing of pure magic. En route to see Santa Claus, families will be able to explore the enchanted streets of Ireland’s oldest city.
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A brand new Winterval on Ice in its new location at the Waterside, which also houses a separate rink for smaller kids to skate in!
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Also new to Winterval this year is the Waterford Eye: a giant illuminated Ferris wheel (the biggest on the Island of Ireland!) which overlooks the Viking Triangle and the River Suir. On which, by the way, you can enjoy the VIP experience which includes a 30 minute spin on the Ferris wheel, blankets to keep you warm and either hot chocolates or a bottle of Prosecco for you and your friends to enjoy. (How fancy does that sound!? And it's only €50 for 4 people!)
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For one weekend only on the 9th and 10th of December, Waterford’s world class street theatre company Spraoi will present ‘All That Glistens’ on The Mall, right in front of the House of Waterford Crystal and the historical Bishop’s Palace. This is completely free and will be absolutely sensational!
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You can also enjoy a Secret Santa Workshop, Winterval Selfie Stations, a full line up of entertainment on the WLR Winterval Main Stage and so much more.
There’s also a new focus on after-dark activities centred around the newly developed Apple Market, which will be transformed into a Winter Village packed full of festive lights, free live entertainment, snowball fights and a giant Christmas tree.
And of course some of the stalwart favourites return:
The Horse Drawn Sleigh, the Winterval Express Train, The Christmas Carousel, The Elves Workshop and Christmas Storytelling.
It really offers something for everyone. Whether you’re visiting with your family and young kids or teenagers; or you want to stroll the streets with your love and enjoy a romantic, festive break away – Winterval has got it all!
Winterval also launched a brand new Winterval app on November 7th with a comprehensive guide to all activities. The app will filter between free events, ticketed events, family activities and Google enabled maps. Tickets can also be purchased through the Winterval app.
There’s so much to see and do for everyone at Winterval. You're advised to book tickets in advance so you can guarantee a visit to your favourite events in our medieval city as we celebrate this most wonderful time of the year.
Winterval opens on Friday, November 17th, when WLR will be live from John Roberts Square from 3-6pm as Santa arrives for Winterval in Waterford.
