ABOUT
Now in its 16th year Waterford Harvest Festival returns from September 5th - September 8th, 2025 celebrating great food and the people who produce it. Taking place in venues across Waterford City. Harvest Festival promises to be a treat for the senses with food demos and talks, honey making, storytelling, fine dining experiences, fantastic food offerings from local restaurants, live music and lots of free family entertainment across the city.
Food lovers are in for a treat at this year’s Waterford Harvest Festival, with a programme bursting with flavour and fun. One of the highlights is the Faulty Towers - The Dining Experience at Dooley’s Hotel — a hilarious, immersive dinner event where guests can enjoy a delicious meal served with a side of chaos and comedy, inspired by the classic TV show.
The festival will close on a high note with Beat, Bites & Bubbles — a vibrant street dining celebration of flavour, funk and fizz, featuring music, street food, and sparkling surprises.
Throughout the weekend, visitors can also explore a curated city-wide Food Trail, showcasing some of Waterford’s finest restaurants and hidden gems, each offering signature dishes that reflect the city’s rich culinary culture.
This year’s musical line-up promises something special, with a headline concert by the renowned Mick Flannery in the stunning setting of Christ Church Cathedral. Also gracing the historic venue is the enchanting Bridgerton Symphonic - an immersive string quartet performance of music from the hit Netflix TV series - bringing elegance and atmosphere to the heart of the city.
Free live music will fill the streets throughout the festival, with vibrant performances across John Roberts Square, Arundel Square, Gladstone Street, and O’Connell Street.
Acts include beloved singer-songwriter John Spillane, high-energy favourites The 80s Generation, and the legendary Derek Warfield & The Young Wolfe Tones, Beats Bites and Bubbles - a Food Experience on St John Roberts Square and The Faulty Towers Dining Experience.
A new addition to the festival is The Harvest Tea Cruise, a signature river experience with Chef Keith and Carmel Boyle in collaboration with Osprey Viking Tours. The Harvest Tea Cruise offers guests the rare opportunity to experience Chef Boyle's signature afternoon tea while sailing the River Suir from Waterford Marina towards the tranquil surrounds of Waterford Castle.
3 DAYS, 55,000 VISITORS
Last year's event saw a record 55,000 visitors in Waterford City over the 3 Days with many events sold out in advance.
The festival will spotlight the best of local and Irish producers and the region’s food heritage, with the emphasis very much on taste and entertainment with an added dash of sustainability.
GREEN, ENVIRONMENTALLY SUSTAINABLE, INCLUSIVE EVENT
The festival is supported by Waterford City and County Council, which specified that the festival deliver a green, environmentally sustainable event, while minimising food waste and carbon emissions.
The festival is proud to partner with Autism Friendly Waterford, working to ensure a welcoming and inclusive experience for all.
Nua Healthcare Services, a leading provider of supports for people with intellectual disabilities and complex needs, is proud to participate in the upcoming Waterford Harvest Festival.
Nua’s Mobile CLaD (Continuous Learning and Development) and Supported Living Services will be featured at the festival, reflecting a shared commitment to making Ireland’s public events more inclusive and accessible for all.
