Waterford is gearing up for one of its biggest weekends of the year as the Harvest Festival returns to the city from Friday, September 4th to Sunday, September 6th. The three day celebration features local food and artisan producers, interactive dining, free outdoor live music and family entertainment.

It also promises a major economic boost to the city. Co-director of the festival Mark Dunn, speaking on WLR’s business programme,The Hot Desk, said the festival is worth €2.5–€3 million annually to the local economy. The 2025 festival welcomed more than 200,000 visitors.

At its core is the Harvest Market, featuring food producers from Waterford city and county as well as across Ireland, backed by high-profile demos curated by Chef Keith Boyle, the festival’s culinary director.

John Roberts Square will again be the focal point, hosting the Harvest Kitchen Stage under a stretch tent and a bespoke bandstand with a lineup of local acts as part of the Cathedral Live series.

A key feature of this year’s festival will see a portion of the programme retuen to Ballybricken Green. one of Waterford City’s most historic and culturally significant locations. Ballybricken will be reimagined as The Old Quarter during the festival.

Mark Dunn stressed the importance of local engagement, with events running to 8pm to draw Waterford residents back into the city centre while also attracting visitors from surrounding counties. Most events are free, with charges applying only to select tours and restaurant experiences.

Full details are available via the festival’s social channels and www.waterfordharvestfestival.ie.