Winterval Light Up Ceremony (Official Opening)
Gather in the heart of Waterford City for an evening of festive entertainment, live music, and holiday cheer. The Mayor of Waterford City & County joins Santa Claus on stage to lead the official countdown and illuminate the city. Crowds assemble along the street to celebrate the opening of Ireland's largest Christmas festival.
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Plan Your Visit
Website / Tickets
When
Tickets
Free; no tickets required.
Hours
Entertainment from 5:30pm; lights on at 6:00pm.
Ages
All ages
Parking
City-centre parking options include Merchants Quay, Clyde Wharf, City Square and Bolton Street car parks.
Going?
Location
Tips & Advice
- Arrive in time for the festive entertainment before the light switch-on, as music and celebrations begin ahead of the countdown.
- Stand around Broad Street or John Roberts Square for the ceremony; these are identified as the best viewing locations.
- No ticket is required, so you can come along without making an event booking.
- If driving, choose from the city-centre car parks, including Merchants Quay, Clyde Wharf, City Square and Bolton Street.
- Consider visiting the nearby market, illuminations, postbox or gingerbread-making workshops as part of the opening-night festivities.
Special Events & Promotions
- The Mayor of Waterford City & County and Santa Claus appear for the light switch-on.
- The first Winterval Illuminates screening takes place on opening night in Cathedral Square.
- The Christmas Market is open on opening night.
- Santa’s Giant Disco Postbox runs on opening night in The Apple Market.
- Gingerbread-making workshops run on opening night on Georges Street.
Links & Contact
Run by Winterval Waterford
Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide, not the organizer of this event. For tickets, entries, vendor spots or questions, contact the organizer directly through their contact page.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the ceremony suited to?
It is described as a free family event, and visitors can come with family and friends.
Do I need a ticket or advance booking?
No. Tickets are not required; visitors can simply come along.
What happens during the ceremony?
Festive entertainment and music lead up to the Mayor of Waterford City & County and Santa Claus helping switch on the city’s festive lights. WLR FM broadcasts live from the event.
Where is the best place to watch the ceremony?
Broad Street and John Roberts Square are identified as the best viewing locations.
What else can I visit nearby during the opening celebrations?
The Christmas Market is open, the first Winterval Illuminates screening takes place in Cathedral Square, Santa’s Giant Disco Postbox is in The Apple Market, and gingerbread-making workshops run on Georges Street.
Browse Christmas in Waterford
Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly. Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide and isn't affiliated with the events we list.