Winterval 2021. Picture: Patrick Browne

Winterval, Ireland’s largest Christmas festival, returns to Waterford this weekend and runs over 19 magical days across 5 weeks with its biggest and most festive nineteen-day programme of events for all ages. Brought to you by Waterford City and County Council, this winter’s festival integrates the old and the new, with festival favourites that everyone knows and loves and a new mix of exciting programming to elevate Winterval to a whole new level.

Winterval Waterford – Ireland’s Christmas Festival

Presented by Waterford City and County Council, Winterval 2026 will feature many beloved attractions, exciting events, and enchanting reimaginings of festival favourites. As the European City of Christmas, the event will offer a world of holiday celebrations, magical experiences, festive family attractions, seasonal surprises, and a variety of free and ticketed events for all ages.

Winterval is likely to run from Friday, 20 November to Wednesday, 23 December 2026, exact dates to be confirmed. The countdown is on!

Winterval Breaks

Winterval, Ireland’s largest Christmas festival, and now the European City of Christmas, will return to Waterford in November and December for its 13th year with its biggest and most festive programme yet. Waterford, Ireland’s oldest city, will be transformed into a magical Winterval wonderland from Friday, November 14th until Tuesday, December 23rd 2025.

Make the most of Ireland’s biggest Christmas Festival and European City of Christmas 2026 with breaks at the Fitzwilton Hotel.

We offer complimentary onsite parking (subject to availability) and Free wifi. We are located in the city centre just a 5 minute walk from the bus and train stations.

Winterval Breaks

Winterval, Christmas, Festival, Co Waterford_master (2)

Winterval is Waterfords Christmas Festival for Young and Old, packed with seasonal events and activities, set in unique heritage sites around Waterford City.

For more information or to book your Winterval, please contact us directly on T: 051-846900 or info@fitzwiltonhouse.ie

Take a look around

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Winterval Waterford-Ireland Christmas Festival

Winterval, Ireland’s largest Christmas festival, and now the European City of Christmas.