Ireland’s biggest Christmas festival Winterval is set to return this winter

Ireland's largest Christmas festival is coming back and is set to be better than ever.

Set to feature over 60 free and ticketed events across Waterford city, Winterval will run from November 17 to December 23. If you're looking for a festive Christmas event to visit with the kids, Winterval is definitely one to check out. Ireland has more Christmas fairs and events every year but this Waterford winter wonderland is still one of the most popular. 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, taking place across Waterford city. Twelve events, from spoken word to street theatre, will run during the Festival, each representing a gift from the iconic Christmas song. The 2018 Winterval Festival kicks off on 17 November from 4pm with the arrival of Santa and International Rose of Tralee, Kirsten Mate Maher, at John Roberts Square for the turning on of the city’s lights at 5pm. Other highlights will include the return of the Waterford Eye, the iconic Big Wheel on Merchants Quay. There will also be a VIP experience on the attraction is available, which includes warm blankets, chocolates and prosecco, or non-alcoholic fizz for children’s groups. If you want to visit and take part in all the festive fun this winter you can find out how at www.winterval.ie.