This summer, Waterford City and County are set to become Ireland’s cultural and creative heartbeat, with an extraordinary line-up of festivals
This summer, Waterford City and County are set to become Ireland’s cultural and creative heartbeat, with an extraordinary line-up of festivals that promises something for every interest and age group. From mountains to medieval streets, from coastal villages to bustling town squares, the county is brimming with music, food, art, history, and pure summer fun.
Whether you’re travelling with family, escaping with friends, or exploring solo, Summer 2025 in Waterford will be unforgettable.
Comeraghs Wild Festival
Waterford kicks off the season with the spectacular Comeraghs Wild Festival from July 10th to 13th, which celebrates the beauty of the Comeragh Mountains, the Copper Coast, and the Nire Valley. With mountain and wildlife walks, storytelling indoors and out, traditional music, artisan food and skill workshops, this festival offers an immersive experience in local nature and culture.
The Churchyard Sessions
The Churchyard Sessions in Waterford City have become a beloved summer tradition, offering free live music in the heart of the city. These open-air concerts take place in the historic setting of Greyfriars Churchyard on Bailey’s New Street, adjacent to The Reg. They take place each Saturday night and select Fridays until the beginning of September. The 2025 lineup features a diverse array of acts, including Smash Hits, Stacy Mitchhart, The New Brass Kings, and Legendary – A Bon Jovi Tribute. In response to community feedback, organisers have introduced four Friday night sessions, complete with BBQs, catering specifically to local businesses and social clubs seeking after-work entertainment. These sessions not only showcase emerging and established Irish talent but also foster a vibrant atmosphere, with outdoor bars and a welcoming crowd. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, the Churchyard Sessions offer an authentic cultural experience in one of Ireland’s most picturesque settings.
Legends & Lore Summer Festival
The charming Legends & Lore Summer Festival runs in the enchanting Lafcadio Hearn Japanese Gardens in Tramore from July 4th to 18th, 2025. Visitors can enjoy culturally rich stories from Japan and Tramore, serene fairy trails, well‑being pop‑up events, and creative workshops exploring the legacy of writer Lafcadio Hearn.
The Haven Hotel in Dunmore East offers a lively and varied lineup of gigs, from top tribute acts like Qween & The Dublin Gospel Choir and The Specials to homegrown stars like Gavin James, The High Kings, and The Coronas. With everything from reggae and rock to house nights and country hits, there’s something for every music lover to enjoy in their unique indoor and marquee settings.
Ardmore Pattern Festival
Taking place over the final week of July and culminating on St. Declan’s feast day, July 24th, the Ardmore Pattern Festival offers a rich blend of tradition and family fun in the picturesque seaside village of Ardmore. Rooted in the ancient “pattern” pilgrimage to honour St. Declan at the holy well and nearby oratory, the festival has evolved into a week-long celebration featuring over 70 events. Visitors can take part in the spiritual “rounds” at the well, attend a solemn Mass, and enjoy a pageant tracing St. Declan’s arrival. Alongside this spiritual heritage are a host of community-led activities—live music performances, street entertainment, fireworks, arts and crafts workshops, historical walking tours, puppet shows, sports contests, a farmers’ market, sandcastle competitions, cookery demonstrations, and more—creating a free, inclusive, and vibrant atmosphere that honours Ardmore’s heritage while welcoming both locals and tourists.
Spraoi International Street Arts Festival
The August Bank Holiday weekend has a stellar music lineup of festivities in Waterford as Ireland’s oldest city is transformed by the Spraoi International Street Arts Festival from August 2nd to 4th. It is Ireland’s largest free street‑arts event, transforming the ancient city centre into a vibrant stage for circus acts, contemporary theatre, world music, storytelling, and family‑friendly performances. Spraoi has earned a reputation as one of Ireland’s leading street theatre festivals, with international artists, musicians, and performers taking over every corner of the city. The famous Spraoi Parade and closing fireworks show draw thousands each year. With its mix of spectacle and accessibility, it’s a favourite for both locals and visitors, especially families.
All Together Now
Also on offer over the August Bank Holiday weekend at Curraghmore Estate is All Together Now with a stellar music lineup, comedy gigs, food trails, and arts workshops. Drawing approximately 20,000 attendees each year, this boutique festival strikes the perfect note of music and community gathering.
Waterford Walls
From August 8–17, Waterford Walls transforms the city into a bold urban canvas through its international street‑art festival. Expect live art installations, digital art showcases, music pop‑ups, guided walking tours, and collaborative workshops illuminating vibrant alleyways and gable‑end murals throughout Waterford city.
Dunmore East Bluegrass Festival
Meanwhile, on the coast, the relaxed village of Dunmore East will once again host the Dunmore East Bluegrass Festival from August 23rd to 25th. With top acts from Ireland, the UK and the US, this free-entry music festival draws fans of bluegrass, folk and Americana to its pubs, cafes and open-air stages. Its easy-going vibe and scenic setting make it one of the most atmospheric weekends of the summer.
Waterford Harvest Festival
To round out the season, the Waterford Harvest Festival returns from September 6th to 8th, bringing the city centre to life with a celebration of sustainable food, local producers and culinary innovation. Expect chef demos, street markets, workshops, children’s activities, and a strong focus on seasonal and environmentally conscious cuisine. It’s a vibrant, family-friendly celebration that closes the summer on a high note.
The Vitamin Sea Festival
The Vitamin Sea Festival in Tramore, Co. Waterford, will return for its fifth annual celebration from Friday, September 19 to Sunday, September 21, 2025. This vibrant seaside festival showcases Tramore’s rich coastal culture, culinary delights, and wellness offerings. The event features a diverse lineup of activities such as sunrise stand-up paddleboarding with breakfast at Newtown Cove, sushi-making workshops, a combined surf and yoga day retreat, whiskey and food pairings at local venues, beachcomb and found-object craft workshops, sake and organic wine tastings, forest bathing with morning tea, sunset paddles followed by pizza at the pier, and a traditional Irish ceílí dance gathering.
With such an extraordinary variety of festivals on offer, Waterford truly becomes a stage for culture, creativity and community this summer. Whether you’re drawn to music and art, history and heritage, or simply great food and a warm welcome, there’s no better place to be than Ireland’s Sunny Southeast.
For full festival listings, travel tips, accommodation suggestions and booking information, visit www.visitwaterford.com and start planning your perfect summer escape.
