A perfect road trip for anyone in need of some Christmas spirit.
It’s still too early to talk about Christmas – yikes, we haven’t even had Halloween yet – but if you’re thinking abut making future plans for a little pre-Christmas road trip around Ireland, Winterval festival in Waterford might appeal to you.
Winterval is Ireland’s largest Christmas festival and it’s set to feature over 60 free and ticketed events across Waterford city as part of an exciting new programme for 2018.
Attracting over 500,000 visitors each year, Waterford city will be transformed into a magical winter wonderland for the duration of Winterval.
New attractions for 2018 include Enchanted Christmas, a brand-new Santa experience at the Old Postal Sorting Centre and the free 12 Days of Christmas attraction.
12 events — from spoken word to street theatre — will run during the festival, each representing a gift from the iconic Christmas song.
Other highlights include the return of the Waterford Eye and the iconic Big Wheel on Merchants Quay, which will feature a VIP experience including warm blankets, chocolates and prosecco, or non-alcoholic drinks for any children.
The location of the giant post box for letters to Santa will also see free special performances from the Waterford Academy of Music and Arts.
Other performances include Handel’s Messiah, performed by the City of Dublin Chamber Orchestra, and a Notable Works Chorus at St John’s Church on 2 December.
There will also be a free Lions Club Christmas Carol Service at the Cathedral of the Most Holy Trinity on 15 December and two special concerts at City Hall on 17 November and 17 December.
The festival runs from 17 November – 23 December and more information can be found here.
The perfect trip for anyone looking to get into the Christmas spirit.
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