Winterval Light Up Ceremony (Official Opening) | Winterval 2026

FREE. No tickets required.

Gather on Broad Street and around John Roberts Square for the start of Winterval in Waterford. Festive entertainment begins at 5.30pm on Friday 13 November, before Santa and the Mayor help switch on the Christmas lights at 6pm.

There will be music, a countdown and a live WLR FM broadcast. This is a FREE family event with no tickets needed. Afterwards, head to Cathedral Square for the first Winterval Illuminates screening at 6.30pm. The Christmas market stays open until 8pm, and the Giant Disco Postbox has evening shows in the Apple Market.

Plan Your Visit

Venue: Broad Street, Waterford.
Festival: Winterval 2026.

How to get there!

Dates and Times

• Friday 13 November 2026: 5:30pm

More Information

Official Winterval event details

More Winterval Events to Explore

Winterval Illuminates, Movies @ The Reg, Viking Elf Trail. Check each event page for its own dates, times and admission details.

See more in our Winterval festival guide and our What’s On guide, updated twice a week.

Make More of Your Visit to Waterford

Explore Bodega Restaurant & Wine Bar and Shaws Waterford on WIYP while planning your visit. You can also find places to eat, pubs and bars and shopping in Waterford.