Waterford, Ireland’s oldest city, hosts Winterval. Winterval is one of a few Christmas markets in Ireland that have proven famous with both locals and tourists in recent years. Entering in its 11th year, this year the festivities kicked off with a Christmas Parade on November 17th at 05 PM (local time). The Santa arrived in Waterford marking the beginning of the festivities. Thousands of people were lined up the streets as Santa turned on 100,000 Christmas lights.
The main market (dubbed the ‘Glenveagh Christmas Market at Winterval’) will take place in the Waterford Cultural Quarter and will be sprawled across Georges Street, Gladstone Street, and O’Connell Street, while numerous smaller events will take place around city square.
The Waterford Christmas Market in 2023 will have live performances, Santa, the Waterford Eye, Winterval Illuminates, Glow, and many other attractions. The Waterford Christmas Market is perhaps one of the more popular Irish Christmas markets. Winterval Waterford 2023 will feature a variety of live activities and entertainment, as well as the iconic traditional market held in the Cultural Quarter.
Waterford Winterval Illuminates is a festive light show that takes place outside City Square Shopping Centre and features music, magic, and joy.
The 9m-tall tower illuminates the city with light, sound, and special effects, as well as a projection show.
If you want to have a bird’s-eye perspective of the Winterval Waterford, five euros can get you a ride on the Ferris wheel (The Waterford eye).
The Winterval celebration definitely captured the festive atmosphere and brightened up the city in preparation for Christmas.
How do you celebrate Christmas in your cities? Do you have local festivals and events?
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Here’s a shared photo album for Waterford Winterval 2023.
-OA