Waterford Harvest Festival returns this September with packed programme
Waterford Harvest Festival will return to the city this September with a packed programme of food, music and family-friendly events following last year’s festival, which attracted more than 200,000 visitors.
The festival will take place from Friday, September 4 to Sunday, September 6, celebrating local food producers, chefs and culinary experiences across Waterford city.
Among this year’s headline events are the Murder Mystery Dining Experience, Sherlock Homes, performances by Mary Coughlan, Mick Hanly, Brian Kennedy and The Glitterbugs, as well as storytelling sessions with Eddie Lenihan.
Popular events including the Harvest Festival River Cruises and Yoga Breakfast will also return, while several new additions have been announced for 2026. These include the Food Lovers Global Taste Trail, The Big Breakfast Swap in support of Waterford Foodbank, Comedy, Cocktails & Canapés and a guided foraging experience through the woodlands and gardens at Mount Congreve Gardens.
One of the major changes this year will see part of the festival relocate to Ballybricken Green. Rebranded as ‘The Old Quarter’ during the festival, the historic area will host food, music, cultural events and local businesses, highlighting its role in Waterford’s commercial heritage.
Festival Co-Director Mark Dunne said the event aims to bring people into the city centre while showcasing the best of Waterford’s food, entertainment and local businesses.
“Our city centre is the beating heart of Waterford, and the Harvest Festival is an opportunity for people to come together and enjoy everything it has to offer,” he said.
Award-winning chef Keith Boyle will continue as Culinary Director, while Michelin-starred pastry chef Tom Phelan of The Lady Helen Restaurant at Mount Juliet Estate will host a special Afternoon Tea Cruise during the festival.
Accessibility will again be a key focus, with Autism Friendly Waterford partnering with the festival. A new Sensory Hub at City Square Shopping Centre will provide a dedicated space for autistic visitors and their families.
The festival is supported by Waterford City and County Council, with organisers placing an emphasis on environmental sustainability, including reducing food waste and carbon emissions.
Waterford Local Enterprise Office will also continue its support, helping local food and drink producers showcase their products throughout the weekend.
The programme will include both free and ticketed events. Tickets for paid events go on sale at 10am on Friday, July 3, while applications for food and drink producers wishing to take part in the Harvest Festival Market open at 5pm on Thursday, July 9.
The full programme will be released in the coming weeks.
