Winterval is returning and we can not wait.
Ireland’s largest winter festival Winterval returns this year on November 23 with an exciting new programme.
This year’s magical festival kicks off on 23 November at 4.15pm, with Santa and the Mayor of Waterford City and County Council Cllr. John Pratt turning on the city’s Christmas lights at 5pm.
This year’s festival highlights will include a never-before-seen free festive wonderland by Ireland’s renowned street theatre company, Spraoi and animatronic dragons.
Yes that’s right, dragons.
Further highlight Winterval On Ice, will take place on a 600sqm ice rink of real ice will be located at the new location of Bolton Street Car Park.
Visitors can also journey through the heart of Winterval on the Winterval Express Train and Horse Drawn Sleigh.
Having two little ones under seven I’ve already been searching for the perfect Santa experience and from the sounds of it this seems as close as possible to visiting the North Pole as it gets.
Favourite fairground rides return for 2019 with the Helter Skelter at Constitution Square, while the Vintage Ferris Wheel will be located at Arundel Square.
Of course what would be a Christmas festival without a visit to see Santa and Winterval have made sure that everyone is included;
“We are also delighted to see Santa, Mrs Claus and the elves return to Choristers Hall, for what will be another magical experience.
We always want to ensure all children can enjoy a visit to Santa and so, have created a dedicated autism friendly and sensory evening on Thursday, 12 December. This will see the Grotto specially adapted to create a calm and relaxing environment, providing a stress-free evening for all guests.”
Winterval takes place in Waterford this November and December and you can see a full list of events through the Winterval website.
