Waterford Harvest Festival 2026
Why it matchesThis festival celebrates food with demos, talks, and local dishes. There will be live music and free family entertainment across the city.
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All ages · up to 60 min · any budget
Why it matchesThis festival celebrates food with demos, talks, and local dishes. There will be live music and free family entertainment across the city.
Why it matchesFamilies can enjoy a Christmas parade, a big Ferris wheel, vintage fairground rides, a 3D light show, Christmas markets, ice skating, and Santa experiences.
Why it matchesThis free festival transforms Waterford into a giant stage with street performers, musicians, and a parade. You can see jugglers, acrobats, and dancers, and enjoy food stalls.
Why it matchesFamilies can see Viking battle re-enactments, watch craftspeople at work, and children can try a 'Dig in a Box' archaeology activity. There is also a display of a Viking boat.
Why it matchesFamilies can join New Ross Library staff at the JFK Arboretum Visitor Centre for a day of learning. There will be storytelling, LEGO robotics, and 3D printing.
Why it matchesThis show celebrates Irish trees and timber. You can watch chainsaw carvers, see machinery, and find artisan crafts and food. There are also woodland talks and family activities.
Why it matchesWander through gardens lit up with twinkling lights, animal sculptures, and special lighting on trees and plants. You might meet magical characters and can get hot chocolate by an open fire.
Why it matchesThis is an amusement park with rides for all ages, from gentle car tracks and bouncy castles for small children to roller coasters and thrill rides for older kids and adults. It is in Tramore, near the beach.
Why it matchesHire a bike, ebike or hand-powered trike and cycle along the Suir Blueway, taking in the scenery, history and fresh air of Tipperary.
Why it matchesThis festival in Tramore has lots for families, from treasure hunts and nature walks to live music and craft workshops. There are also food experiences and wellness activities.
Why it matchesFamilies can go horse riding, trekking, or trail-riding. Children can also attend pony camps during school holidays and mid-terms. You can also learn about the horses during morning rounds and feeding times.
Why it matchesFamilies can pick pumpkins, explore a Witches' Village, and walk through a Monsters' Woodland. There are also tractor rides, playgrounds, and a trick-or-treat trail, all within Secret Valley Wildlife Park.
Why it matchesFamilies can see over 200 animals from 40 species, including rescued exotic animals. There are daily activities and animal encounters, plus seasonal events like a corn maze or Christmas Grinch.
Why it matchesCycle the Waterford Greenway, taking in tunnels, viaducts, and old railway ruins. You can cycle to Dungarvan or Kilmacthomas, or just enjoy the views from a picnic bench.
Why it matchesExplore a huge collection of trees and shrubs from around the world, enjoy a lake with waterfowl, and take in panoramic views from the summit. There are walking trails, a playground, and a visitor centre with exhibitions.
Why it matchesExplore the Copper Coast's cliffs, coves, and beaches. Discover walking trails and learn about the area's geology and mining history at the free exhibition in the visitor centre.
Why it matchesThis is an outdoor music and arts festival happening every weekend over the summer. There will be different events each weekend.
Why it matchesFamilies can enjoy free outdoor concerts on Saturdays and some Fridays during the summer. It's a chance to hear local and national music acts in a relaxed setting.
Why it matchesThis is a music festival in a city laneway, with live music from Irish artists.
Why it matchesExplore a variety of gardens across Wexford, from historic estates to modern nurseries. You can get ideas for your own garden and see a wide range of plants.
Why it matchesFamilies can explore the gardens of Woodville House, a Georgian home on a working farm. You can see old box hedging, fruit trees, and a peaceful water garden with shade-loving plants.
Why it matchesFamilies can enjoy a day out at the races, with both flat and jump races to watch. There are bars and restaurants, and a cr che for children.
Why it matchesExplore eleven different garden areas, each reflecting parts of Lafcadio Hearn's life. Discover Victorian, American, Greek, and Japanese gardens with authentic features and learn about Irish and Japanese folklore.
Why it matchesFamilies can walk the 500m boardwalk through Fenor Bog to see a rare fen habitat and its wildlife. Look out for dragonflies and various birds.
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