EVENTS
FRIDAY 4TH SEPTEMBER
TASTEFUL WALKING TOUR
Fri 4th September
Meeting point: Millennium Plaza
11:00 - 14:00
Waterford is Ireland’s oldest city and its best kept secret! Book our tasteful food tour to discover the variety of delicious food and beverage offerings available in this ancient city. We’ll roam from the Quayside to the historic Viking Triangle, and the newly restored Cultural Quarter to the atmospheric Apple Market, stopping off to sample the gastronomic delights of independently owned cafés, family-run hotels and lively gastro-bars. There’s a surprise in every bite!
Follow the fork and let us lead the way!
It’s a great way to locate your favourite foods and brews, the best restaurants to book or simply a fun food experience to try while on your next trip to the sunny south-east of Ireland. There’s so much more to Waterford than first meets the eye- fab food and drink, friendly locals and a fascinating food culture and history.
What’s Included?
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3-4 Stops
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Taste food from the province
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Meet and chat to food business owners and hear their stories
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Be guided by a knowledgeable and enthusiastic Tour Guide- Sinéad
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Learn about the city’s extensive food culture & history and its contemporary food scene
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Sample the renowned Blaa, Artisan bakery sweet treats, Locally roasted coffee, Handmade Chocolates. Choice of two lunch dishes and a glass of Irish craft beer/ stout or cider
Tour Meeting point is the Millennium Plaza on Parade Quay, Waterford City.
HARVEST FESTIVAL MARKET
Fri 4th September
John Roberts Square, Michael St, Arundal Square, Gladstone St, O'Connell St
12:00 - 20:00
The Festival Market is core to what Harvest Festival is about and our team have worked tirelessly to select, traders whose produce celebrates local produce and Irish based Producers.
The array of quality food and crafts include, Barbeque, Mexican, Noodles, Seafood, Crepes, Roast, Acai Bowl's, Falafel, Indian street food, Fresh Pasta, Polish Bruscetta, Afro-Caribbean, Baked Potatoes
MARY COUGHLAN
Fri 4th September
Christchurch Cathedral
19:30
Mary Coughlan is Ireland’s greatest jazz and blues singer and “one of our most openly raw performers” (Hotpress). In a career spanning 40 years she is about to enter its next, exciting stage.
To hear Mary sing, is, as Velvet Thunder said, “to be at the core of the human heart”. It was a voice which first came to wide attention in 1985, when Mary burst onto the Irish music scene with her debut album, Tired and Emotional. That album led to appearances on The Late Late Show, a hit single with ‘Delaney’s Gone Back On The Wine’, and tours of Britain, Germany, and Holland.
Mary is also no stranger to the big screen, having appeared in two films by acclaimed Irish director Neil Jordan - 1988’s High Spirits with Peter O Toole, Daryl Hannah, and Donal McCann, and 2005’s Breakfast on Pluto with Cillian Murphy and Stephen Rea.
SHEER LUCK HOLMES
MURDER MYSTERY DINING EXPERIENCE
Fri 4th September
Dooley's Hotel, Merchants Quay
Doors: 19:00 | Show 19:30 Sharp
The Case of the Floating Fiancée
Prepare for an unforgettable evening of comedy, mystery,
Join Holmes, Watson, and Mrs. Hudson for a laugh-out-loud Murder Mystery Dinner Show filled with deadly twists, dastardly turns, and a three-course meal that’s simply to die for. Step into a fully interactive mystery and test your detective skills—can you uncover the culprit, or will it all come down to sheer luck?
Fully seated, Strictly Over 18's, ID Required.
Please note this is a set menu.
Beverages are not included in the ticket price.
This is group sitting in tables of 10, seats will be allocated on the night. Please let the hotel know in advance if you are part of a group and have booked individually
Please note at times during the show, Dooleys Hotel Staff will not be part of service, during these times, there will be no table service for drinks. This information will be posted in the venue.
Please let the hotel know if you have allergies.
SUNSET VOYAGE
with Kyoto Sushi Masters
Fri 4th September
18:00 - 20:00
Waterford’s acclaimed Kyoto Restaurant will host a spectacular Sunset Voyage on Friday evening. Guests will enjoy an immersive culinary experience as Kyoto’s sushi masters prepare fresh sushi, sashimi and signature dishes on board while the sun sets over the River Suir.
COMEDY, COCKTAILS & CANAPÉS
Fri 4th September
Zanzibar Cocktail Bar
20:30
Bringing together the very best of comedy and culinary excellence for a truly memorable evening.
Zanzibar Cocktail Bar will be transformed into a haven of laughter, flavour and great company as guests enjoy an evening of hilarious comedy, expertly crafted cocktails and delicious canapés.
In partnership with Kilkenny Comedy club, three comedians on the night, are sure to have audiences laughing from start to finish with their unique stories and sharp wit.
This special Harvest Festival event offers the perfect blend of entertainment and hospitality, creating a relaxed and vibrant atmosphere where guests can enjoy great food, exceptional drinks and outstanding live comedy.
Whether you’re a comedy enthusiast, a cocktail lover, or simply looking for a fantastic night out, this is an event not to be missed.
DEAR WILLOW
Fri 4th September
Broad St, Waterford
17:00 - 18:00
Dear Willow formed in December 2024 is a fresh new Irish trad and folk style band with over 14million views on TikTok and 72 thousand followers across their social media platforms within their first year together.
Dear Willow consists of lead singer Katie Phelan, guitarist Dave McCabe, banjo player Eoin Brosnahan, fiddle player Aoife Nolan and drummer Ian Bailey. Dear Willow has a distinct sound which has become extremely popular landing them opportunities like trad fest, electric picnic, the ruby sessions and support slots for the high kings on their ‘Rocky road to Dublin’ tour.
They have catchy original music along with heartfelt relatable originals which cater to people of all generations. Dear Willows goal is to create traditional style Irish folk music with a twist and bring it to new audiences and people of all ages.
MICK HANLY
Fri 4th September
Broad St, Waterford
18:15 - 20:00
Born in Limerick, singer-songwriter Hanly was inspired by mid-50s rock ‘n’ roll and the Liverpool beat group scene of the Sixties.
Mick Hanly’s songs have been covered by Christy Moore, Mary Black, Dolores Keane, Delbert McClinton amongst others, and he continues to write with a freshness and vitality that few can match.
His latest album is called Marathon. Recorded in Gaf Studios and produced by Donal Lunny. Mick is joined by some of Ireland’s most respected musicians, Eoghan O’Neill, Dave Keary, Ray Fean, and James Delaney.
SATURDAY 5TH SEPTEMBER
YOGA BREAKFAST
Sat 5th September
St Patricks Gateway Centre Event Space
10:00
Give yourself some me time, join us for a gentle morning yoga followed by a health breakfast. Nourishment for mind body and soul.
Suitable for beginners. Please bring yoga mat.
Breakfast will include:
Overnight Oats
Organic Herbal Tea
Organic Fresh Fruit and a Fresh Organic Juice
HARVEST FESTIVAL MARKET
Sat 5th September
John Roberts Square, Michael St, Arundal Square, Gladstone St, O' Connell St
12:00 - 20:00
The Festival Market is core to what Harvest Festival is about and our team have worked tirelessly to select, traders whose produce celebrates local produce and Irish based Producers.
The array of quality food and crafts include, Barbeque, Mexican, Noodles, Seafood, Crepes, Roast, Acai Bowl's, Falafel, Indian street food, Fresh Pasta, Polish Bruscetta, Afro-Caribbean, Baked Potatoes
WAMA ON THE GREEN
Sat 5th September
Ballybricken Green, Waterford
12:00 - 18:00 (on the hour)
The Waterford Academy of Music and Arts (WAMA) brings a weekend of free music and art directly to the heart of Ballybricken Green. From open-air performances to hands-on creative sessions, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
* Piano Workshops: Fun, interactive sessions for budding young pianists. Led by Killian Browne and Elle Wadding.
* Ukulele & Guitar Workshops: Grab an instrument, learn the basics and have some fun making music in these lively string sessions led by Calum McGavock.
On the Bandstand: Continuous Live Music & Open Piano
* Live Jazz: Catch brilliant live performances and improvised sets by local jazz maestro Killian Browne, anchoring the bandstand all afternoon.
* Open Piano: Want to share a tune? The keys are yours! Amateur and professional musicians of all ages are welcome to step up and play.
Free Interactive Workshops on the hour for Kids & Teens (No
Booking Required):
12pm - 1pm are Sensory Friendly Session
MEET THE PORTALLY ALPACAS
Sat 5th September
Ballybricken Green, Waterford
12:00 - 18:00
Get up close and meet some of the fluffiest stars of this year’s Waterford Harvest Festival on Ballybricken Green!
Aeron & Ann from Portally Alpacas have been sheep farming for 15 years, with Aeron bringing three generations of shepherding experience from the Brecon Beacons in Wales.
Their love for alpacas began in 2017, and they’re passionate about sharing their knowledge, stories and love of these beautiful animals.
Come along, say hello, meet the alpacas and hear all about life on the farm!
A wonderful experience for animal lovers of all ages!
FORAGING AT MOUNT CONGREVE GARDENS
Sat 5th September
Mount Congreve Gardens, Kilmeaden
11:00
A fascinating guided foraging experience through the historic woodlands and gardens of Mount Congreve Gardens, one of the Great Gardens of the World.
Reconnect with nature and uncover the hidden secrets of the natural world at Mount Congreve Estate.
Set against the stunning backdrop of 18th-century gardens and ancient woodlands, this immersive experience invites guests to explore the wonders of hedgerow foraging and the rich biodiversity that flourishes across our grounds.
Guided by our knowledgeable expert, guests will learn to identify a variety of edible plant species, discover sustainable foraging practices, and gain fascinating insights into the hidden world of plant communication and adaptation.
Whether you're a keen gardener, nature enthusiast or simply curious about the hidden treasures growing all around us, this unique experience offers a fresh perspective on the natural world.
Duration: Approximately 1 hour
STORYTELLING, NATURE AND IRISH FOLKLORE
with Eddie Lenihan
Suitable for 8+ years
Sat 5th September
Waterford Central Library
11:30 - 12:30
Eddie Lenihan is known for his tales of Irish folk heroes, fairies, fallen angels, and other supernatural beings as recorded in Irish mythology, folklore and oral history. He has also published poetry, stories about historical and legendary women of Ireland, and railroad history. In his role as a cultural preservationist he maintains the largest private collection of folklore in Ireland.
WAMA ARTS WORKSHOP
Sat 5th September
Ballybricken Green, Waterford
12:00 - 18:00 (on the hour)
12:00 - 13:00 (sensory friendly)
Discover Your Creativity with WAMA!
The Waterford Academy of Music and Arts (WAMA) brings a weekend of free art directly to the heart of Ballybricken Green.
Free Interactive Workshops on the hour for Kids & Teens (No Booking Required)
A 45-minute taster drawing and watercolour class with WAMA art tutor Anne McDonnell.
Kids aged 6+ will draw a harvest-themed still life with pencil and bring it to life with watercolours. All materials are provided.
Just bring your creativity, your curiosity, and your love for art!
THE EAST WATERFORD BEEKEEPERS ASSOCIATION PRESENTS
HONEYS OF THE WORLD
Sat 5th September
Ballybricken Green, Waterford
12:00 - 18:00
Featuring a selection of honeys from all over the globe available for tasting to the public.
There will also be an observation hive on-site with members of our association on hand to explain all aspects of our fascinating and environmentally important honey.
HARVEST FESTIVAL AFTERNOON TEA
Sat 5th September
Bianconi Restaurant, Granville Hotel
13:00 - 15:00
Celebrate Waterford Harvest Festival in elegant surroundings with a special Harvest Festival Afternoon Tea in the beautiful Bianconi Restaurant at the Granville Hotel on Saturday, 5th September.
Relax and enjoy a delicious selection of our homemade sweet and savoury treats, freshly baked scones served with preserves and cream, and a carefully crafted afternoon tea prepared by our talented chefs. Your experience also includes a glass of Prosecco on arrival.
Adding to the atmosphere, Gavin the Pianoman will provide live music throughout the afternoon, making it the perfect occasion to catch up with friends, celebrate with family, or simply enjoy a leisurely afternoon in the heart of Waterford.
€36 per person (includes a glass of Prosecco)
Places are limited and advance booking is essential.
Book by phone 051 305555
GLOBAL TASTE TRAIL
Sat 5th September
Waterford City
13:30
Food lovers are invited to embark on an unforgettable culinary adventure as Waterford Harvest Festival presents the Global Taste Trail.
Offering a novel food tour concept, the Global Taste Trail will
showcase the incredible diversity of international cuisine available throughout Waterford City. Guests will join local food guide Sinéad Reil of Tasteful Tours for a unique walking experience that celebrates the flavours, traditions and cultures of six outstanding ethnic restaurants.
Participants will journey across continents without ever leaving Waterford, sampling authentic dishes and discovering the stories behind them. The trail begins in India, before travelling through Japan, Thailand, Vietnam and Brazil, and concludes in the heart of Rome, bringing guests on a whistle-stop culinary tour of the world.
The guided walking tour promises an immersive and memorable experience, giving visitors the opportunity to taste signature dishes, meet passionate food operators and gain a deeper appreciation for the city’s multicultural dining scene.
Whether you’re an adventurous foodie or simply looking to discover something new, the Global Taste Trail offers a passport to some of the world’s most exciting flavours.
So come along, pick up your passport and experience the tastes, aromas and hospitality that make Waterford one of Ireland’s most exciting and diverse food destinations.
DISCO BRUNCH ON THE WATER
in partnership with Award Winning Momo Restaurant and Get Down Edits
Sat 5th September
14:30 - 16:30
The Award Winning Team from Momo Restaurant will serve an incredible brunch on the water while Disco Legends Daz and Martin from Get Down Edits will supply the soundtrack.
This year, Waterford Harvest Festival has partnered with the renowned Barrow Princess, bringing three unique on-board experiences to the festival programme. Guests will enjoy a comfortable indoor-seated cruise complete with full bar facilities while taking in some of the South East’s most spectacular scenery.
Over the three-day festival, the Barrow Princess will take passengers on a breath-taking two-hour journey along the River Suir towards Passage East. Along the route, guests will enjoy stunning views of Waterford Castle and the surrounding landscape, with the chance of spotting local wildlife, including dolphins, along the way.
Saturday afternoon will see Waterford disco legends Daz & Martin from Get Down Edits take over the Barrow Princess for an unforgettable Disco Brunch Cruise. Combining great music, a vibrant atmosphere and stunning river views, this unique event promises to be one of the highlights of the festival weekend.
STORYTELLING, NATURE AND IRISH FOLKLORE
with Eddie Lenihan
Sat 5th September
St Patrick's Gateway Centre
15:00 - 16:00
(Suitable for Adults)
Eddie Lenihan is known for his tales of Irish folk heroes, fairies, fallen angels, and other supernatural beings as recorded in Irish mythology, folklore and oral history. He has also published poetry, stories about historical and legendary women of Ireland, and railroad history. In his role as a cultural preservationist he maintains the largest private collection of folklore in Ireland.
ROY BUCKLEY
Sat 5th September
Broad St, Waterford
16:30 - 17:30
In January 2024, Buckley, the Dublin City Ramblers and the Sea of Change Choir released a new version of Pete St John’s “Dublin in the Rare Old Times” through the Dolphin Music Group. The recording topped the charts in Ireland before Buckley stepped away from the band to concentrate on his solo career, new collaborations and the return of his Song Collector Sessions productions.
One of the most significant collaborations of Buckley’s career arrived in 2025 with “For Another King and Country”. Written by Phil Coulter with Ryan Hennessy and Jimmy Rainsford of Picture This, the song was performed by Coulter and Buckley and released by Four Seasons Music on 30 July 2025. It reached No. 1 on iTunes Ireland and subsequently appeared on the Grammy Awards voting ballot in the Best Global Music Performance and Best Music Video categories.
With chart-topping recordings, international touring, Grammy ballot recognition and collaborations spanning generations of Irish music, Roy Buckley has established himself as a distinctive contemporary voice in the Irish folk and ballad tradition.
THE GLITTERBUGS
Sat 5th September
Broad St, Waterford
18:00 - 20:00
The Glitterbugs have been wowing Irish audiences with an energy and passion that has kept them at the very top of their game for many years now. By now, they have a proven track record, as one of Ireland's most enduring and entertaining live acts.
Enjoying 25 years of continual success, the Glitterbugs have played thousands of incredible shows all over the country.
We pride ourselves on being different, fun loving and highly entertaining.
In our latest video you can enjoy some of what the band gets up to in a real live event.
2026 takes the Glitterbugs live formula to an all new and exciting level.
Don't just take our word for it, come and see the Glitterbugs for yourself, because you're guaranteed a night of fun, excitement and great music!
DINE WITH TWO OF IRELAND’S MOST EXCITING CHEFS
at Mara
Mara, O'Connell St.
Sat 5th September
18:00 - 21:00
Luis Martin and JP McMahon are in the kitchen for one night,
serving innovation and passion.
Waterford Harvest Festival's main event will see restaurant owners and chefs Luis Martin of Mara and JP McMahon of Aniar team up for a one-night-only collaboration dinner on September 5th, crafting a bespoke tasting menu together.
Luis Martin is chef-owner of Mara and one of Waterford’s most exciting culinary talents.
JP McMahon is a chef, restaurateur and author, and the owner and culinary director of one of Ireland’s longest-running Michelin-starred Restaurants, Aniar in Galway.
For reservations and further information, visit www.marawaterford.com
SUNDAY 6TH SEPTEMBER
HARVEST FESTIVAL MARKET
Sun 6th September
Ballybricken Green, Waterford
John Roberts Square, Michael St, Arundal Square, Gladstone St, O' Connell St
12:00 - 18:00
The Festival Market is core to what Harvest Festival is about and our team have worked tirelessly to select, traders whose produce celebrates local produce and Irish based Producers.
The array of quality food and crafts include, Barbeque, Mexican, Noodles, Seafood, Crepes, Roast, Acai Bowl's, Falafel, Indian street food, Fresh Pasta, Polish Bruscetta, Afro-Caribbean, Baked Potatoes
WAMA ON THE GREEN
Sun 6th September
Ballybricken Green, Waterford
12:00 - 18:00 (on the hour)
The Waterford Academy of Music and Arts (WAMA) brings a weekend of free music and art directly to the heart of Ballybricken Green. From open-air performances to hands-on creative sessions, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
* Piano Workshops: Fun, interactive sessions for budding young pianists. Led by Killian Browne and Elle Wadding.
* Ukulele & Guitar Workshops: Grab an instrument, learn the basics and have some fun making music in these lively string sessions led by Calum McGavock.
On the Bandstand: Continuous Live Music & Open Piano
* Live Jazz: Catch brilliant live performances and improvised sets by local jazz maestro Killian Browne, anchoring the bandstand all afternoon.
* Open Piano: Want to share a tune? The keys are yours! Amateur and professional musicians of all ages are welcome to step up and play.
Free Interactive Workshops on the hour for Kids & Teens (No
Booking Required):
12pm - 1pm are Sensory Friendly Session
MEET THE PORTALLY ALPACAS
Sun 6th September
Ballybricken Green, Waterford
12:00 - 18:00
Get up close and meet some of the fluffiest stars of this year’s Waterford Harvest Festival on Ballybricken Green!
Aeron & Ann from Portally Alpacas have been sheep farming for 15 years, with Aeron bringing three generations of shepherding experience from the Brecon Beacons in Wales.
Their love for alpacas began in 2017, and they’re passionate about sharing their knowledge, stories and love of these beautiful animals.
Come along, say hello, meet the alpacas and hear all about life on the farm!
A wonderful experience for animal lovers of all ages!
WAMA ART WORKSHOP
Sun 6th September
Ballybricken Green, Waterford
12:00 - 18:00 (on the hour)
12:00 - 13:00 (sensory friendly)
Discover Your Creativity with WAMA!
The Waterford Academy of Music and Arts (WAMA) brings a weekend of free art directly to the heart of Ballybricken Green.
Free Interactive Workshops on the hour for Kids & Teens (No Booking Required)
A 45-minute taster drawing and watercolour class with WAMA art tutor Anne McDonnell.
Kids aged 6+ will draw a harvest-themed still life with pencil and bring it to life with watercolours. All materials are provided.
Just bring your creativity, your curiosity, and your love for art!
THE EAST WATERFORD BEEKEEPERS ASSOCIATION PRESENTS
HONEYS OF THE WORLD
Sun 6th September
Ballybricken Green, Waterford
12:00 - 18:00
Featuring a selection of honeys from all over the globe available for tasting to the public.
There will also be an observation hive on-site with members of our association on hand to explain all aspects of our fascinating and environmentally important honey.
THE MURPHY SISTERS
Sun 6th September
Broad St, Waterford
13:30 - 14:45
Hailing from the West Coast of Ireland, The Murphy Sisters are a dynamic trio of musicians/songwriters with a unique sound that is thrilling audiences around the world.
Their songwriting style is rooted in their beginnings in traditional Irish music and has evolved to encompass folk, country and pop influences.
Their unique blend of harmonies, lively music and humour, captures the pure essence of their close family bond and brings the audience on an unforgettable musical journey.
HARVEST COCKTAILS & CUISINE
LUNCH AT BODEGA
Sun 6th September
Bodega, 54 John St
14:30
Waterford meets the Med for an afternoon of Cocktails & Cuisine at Bodega Restaurant, Waterford during Waterford Harvest Festival 2026.
Join us on Sunday September 6th for our Mediterranean themed Cocktail Lunch.
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4 Courses
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4 Cocktails
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€69
Each course is matched with a cocktail to bring out the flavour of the food.
Fresh Local Produce - Unique Cocktails - A true celebration of Waterford's finest.
To book call 051 844177. Tickets must be paid for in advance.
AN ELEGANT AFTERNOON TEA EXPERIENCE
Sun 6th September
14:30 - 16:30
An unforgettable way to experience the beauty of the
River Suir while enjoying exceptional food, drink and entertainment.
The Barrow Princess will take passengers
on a breathtaking two-hour journey along the River Suir towards Passage East. Along the route, guests will enjoy full bar facilities while taking in stunning views of Waterford Castle and the surrounding landscape, with the chance of spotting local wildlife, including dolphins, along the way.
Michelin-starred pastry chef Tom Phelan from The Lady Helen Restaurant at Mount Juliet Estate will host an intimate Afternoon Tea Cruise. Guests can look forward to a beautifully curated selection of sweet and savoury treats, showcasing the creativity and craftsmanship that have earned Tom widespread acclaim.
DÁWNA
Sun 6th September
Broad St, Waterford
15:00 - 16:00
Dàwna is a folk/ pop artist from Tipperary.
His Second EP ‘The Swallows’ EP (Oct. 2025) has racked up over a million streams independently on Spotify alone since its release.
The Irish Times named him as ‘One to Watch’ in 2024.
The past year saw him on a debut UK Tour opening for Jamie McIntyre, 3 headline Shows in Dolan’s Limerick, The Roisín Dubh Galway & The Cooke Gallery Gort which was a sell out, opening for Darren Kiely in Limerick Milk Market & The Wexford Opera House & opening for Gearoid McCarthy & Lyra in Galway’s Black Box Theatre.
BRIAN KENNEDY
Sun 6th September
Broad St, Waterford
16:30 - 18:00
Brian Kennedy is one of Ireland’s most inspired and revered ambassadors of music.
He is not only a prolific songwriter but a master interpreter of lyrics as well, and audiences around the world continue to praise his exceptional vocal talents. Originally from Belfast, Northern Ireland, the multi-platinum recording artist remains one of Ireland’s most popular singing stars.
With “a voice to charm the angels,” Brian survived a childhood on the infamous Falls Road, West Belfast, at the height of its hellish history against all the odds to carve an extraordinary career in music.
“It’s a miracle that I survived my childhood and became a singer really, given where and how my life started, but somehow my voice had other plans and saved me in the end." That voice set him on a course that changed his life forever.