The countdown is officially on to Comeraghs Wild Festival 2026, with four days of music, culture, adventure and family fun set to transform Waterford’s spectacular Comeragh region from Thursday, July 9th to Sunday, July 12th.
From intimate church performances and mountain concerts to comedy, storytelling, outdoor adventures and traditional rural experiences, this year’s festival promises something for everyone, with the music programme taking centre stage.
The festival opens on Thursday evening in Rathgormack with Wild Laughs: Bernard Casey Live at The Village Bar. One of Ireland’s most popular comedy performers, Bernard Casey will bring his trademark humour to the heart of the Comeraghs, but not before festival-goers are treated to the showband sound of Gerry Walsh and California Blue. Kicking off the celebrations at The Village Bar, Gerry and the band will resurrect the nostalgic electric energy of Ireland’s 1960s ballroom era with an evening of dynamic live music and dancing. Their “Are You Dancin'” show blends rock ‘n’ roll, classic country and the greatest showband hits and is sure to have audiences on their feet. Gerry Walsh and California Blue are among the pioneers of the Irish showband scene, and their appearance promises to be an absolute must-see.
Friday night sees one of the biggest highlights of the weekend when legendary Cork band The Frank and Walters headline a special open-air mountain concert at Cooney’s Yard. Joining them will be high-energy trad favourites Ruaile Buaile, guaranteeing an unforgettable night of sing-alongs, dancing and festival atmosphere beneath the Comeragh Mountains. Opening this event will be three up-and-coming local bands, Mic Óda, String Dynasty and Lady Troffea.
On Sunday afternoon, acclaimed singer-songwriter Duke Special will perform a unique and intimate concert in the beautiful surroundings of Clonagam Church near Portlaw. Renowned for his theatrical performances and extraordinary storytelling, the Belfast artist promises a magical afternoon in one of the festival’s most atmospheric venues, with Moylan joining him as support.
The musical celebrations will conclude on Sunday evening at Woodhouse Estate in Stradbally with An Evening of Song and Story featuring The Backyard Band and White Horse Guitar Club. Set within the estate’s stunning restored walled gardens, the event promises a relaxed and uplifting finale to a memorable weekend. Festival favourites “Dancin’ Neath the Comeraghs” will also once again bring communities together for one of the festival’s most warmly supported and enjoyable social gatherings.
Away from the music stages, visitors can enjoy an extensive programme of activities celebrating the people, traditions and landscapes of the Comeraghs.
Adventure seekers will take on the Nire Valley Drop Mountain Bike and Gravel Grinder Challenge on Saturday, July 11th, while walkers from across Ireland will participate in the 30th Annual Comeragh Crossing, one of the country’s most respected mountain challenges. On Saturday morning, the Greenway Joggers will host a special Memorial Walk at Crough Wood in remembrance of former committee member Mary Flynn, with the community invited to come together to celebrate her life and contribution to the festival.
Families and those seeking a slower pace will find plenty to enjoy throughout the weekend. Traditional sheep shearing and sheepdog demonstrations at Cooney’s Yard offer a glimpse into rural life, while the Dunhill Artisan Food and Craft Market, the Comeragh Motor Club Classic and Vintage Car Run and Display and free performances by the Comeragh to Coast Chorus provide entertainment for all ages and there will be Surfing lessons with Bunmahon Surf School.
Creative visitors can immerse themselves in a Cyanotype Workshop in Crough Wood, where children and adults alike can harness the power of the sun to create magical prints from natural materials. The ever-popular Wet Felt Workshops return to Clonea Parish Hall on Saturday, catering for both beginners and advanced participants alike. Young adventurers can explore the Creative Children’s Woodland Camp and Enchanting Woodland Escape experiences, while those looking to unwind can enjoy yoga, pilates and wellbeing sessions at Zen in the Park.
History and heritage enthusiasts can step back in time at the Old Woollen Mill in Kilmacthomas, where renowned historian Julian Walton will tell the story of the mill established by Louisa, Lady Waterford in the years following the Famine. Local historian Andy Kelly will also present a fascinating exhibition of historic photographs celebrating the people and places that shaped the village.
Storytelling and theatre lovers are also in for a treat. A collaborative storytelling experience at Clonea Power will delve into folklore and tales from the Comeraghs and beyond, while Gealach Gorm Theatre Group will present their mystery production, Cliffcastle House, at St Brigid’s Hall in Kilrossanty.
Festival organiser Bernadette Drohan said excitement is building across the region ahead of the weekend.
“Comeraghs Wild is all about celebrating this incredible place and the people who make it special. We are thrilled to welcome such fantastic musicians, artists, storytellers and outdoor enthusiasts to Waterford. Whether you’re coming for The Frank and Walters, Duke Special, the mountain adventures or simply to spend time with family and friends, there’s a real sense of community and magic throughout the weekend.”
With many events expected to attract large crowds, festival-goers are encouraged to book early and plan their weekends in advance.
Full programme details and tickets are available at www.comeraghswild.com.
