Harvest Festival organisers thanked Waterford’s public for a their “support, loyalty and sense of community”, following a weekend that saw tens of thousands attend events throughout the city.
From food demonstrations with some of Waterford and Ireland’s top chefs, to live music, foraging, river cruises and family events, 2026’s Harvest Festival continued a long tradition of successful festivals in the Deise and a weekend of fine weather ensured the streets of Waterford were bathed in sunshine and colour.
“The entire team behind the Waterford Harvest Festival has been truly humbled by the incredible love and support shown by the people of Waterford,” said festival co-director, Mark Dunne.
“Harvest has always been about much more than a programme of events. It is about community, pride in our city, local people coming together and creating something that genuinely belongs to Waterford.”
A packed programme this year, included Waterford Harvest Festival Food Lovers Global Taste Trail, a Yoga Breakfast, The Big Breakfast Swap (in support of Waterford Foodbank) and Comedy, Cocktails & Canapés, bringing together the very best of comedy and culinary excellence for a truly memorable evening. A welcome addition was the new guided foraging experience through the historic woodlands and gardens of Mount Congreve Gardens.
A key feature to this year’s Harvest Festival programme also saw a return to Ballybricken Green, one of Waterford City’s most historic and culturally significant locations.
Mayor of Waterford City and County, Cllr Liam Brazil, said, “The festival is now in its 17th year and is a highlight each year in the Waterford calendar. It brings people together to celebrate great food, local producers, talented chefs, and everything that makes Waterford such a special place to visit and enjoy.”
As part of its commitment to ensuring an accessible and enjoyable weekend for people of all abilities, Autism Friendly Waterford and Nua Healthcare provided two dedicated sensory spaces during the festival weekend.
“Seeing families, community groups, local businesses, producers, volunteers and visitors filling our streets throughout the weekend is what makes all the hard work worthwhile, said Mr Dunne.
“Year after year, the people of Waterford get behind this festival and make it what it is. That support, loyalty and sense of community is something we never take for granted. From everyone involved, thank you for turning up, taking part, supporting local and once again showing exactly what makes Waterford such a special place”, he concluded.
