Waterford Winterval 2013 ; Ireland's Christmas Festival

Waterford Winterval

'It's the most wonderful time of the year'

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For Waterford Castle’s latest blog we continue to look forward to the Christmas season by exploring the variety of events taking place during the Waterford Winterval Festival; which runs between the 29^th November- 23rd December and the 27^th-31^st December 2013. As Ireland’s premier winter festival, the Waterford Winterval Festival showcases Waterford at its cultural, entertaining and vibrant best. With the array and diversity of events taking place, the festival really offers something for everyone.

There are a number of events taking place throughout the duration of the festival. Winterval on Ice; Ireland's premier Ice-rink; will return to the Merchant’s Quay this festive season. Weather you are a master of the ice-rink or struggle to stay on your feet,  Winterval on Ice always proves to be great fun for all the family.  And why not treat your children to a trip to the magnificent Santa’s grotto; which takes place in the exquisite 13^th century Medieval Museum from the 30^th November – 23^rd December. Santa will be joined by his delightful and charming wife, Mrs Claus and her mischievous elves!

After a trip to Santa’s grotto why not book your tickets and hop on board the Winterval Express which will take you on a magical journey through the streets of Waterford. The journey will offer a great vantage point to truly enjoy the city’s transformation into a Winter Wonderland. There are a number of other children’s activities taking place such as the Animal Farm at Coal’s Quay, and children young and old will be awe struck by the spectacular 'Toy Museum', which both take place between the 29th Nov- 23rd Dec.

Taking place from the 30^th November in the weekends leading up to Christmas, the 'Winterval Christmas Market' creates an exciting Christmas experience on the streets of Waterford City. The streets will be transformed with the sights, sounds and aromas of a traditional Christmas market.In this atmospheric shopping experience you will find a number of craft and gift stalls, meaning you can find your loved ones the perfect gift. There will also be a number of food stalls, serving sweet treats to keep your energies up will you finish you Christmas shopping.

Furthermore, 'the Ardkeen Artisan Food Experience', which will take place at Greyfriars during the weekends from 30th Nov- 23 Dec will allow shoppers sample & stock up on some of the country’s most distinctive and flavorsome produce. Or why not visit the Polish Christmas pop-up Village will take place in the Tourist office, 120 The Quay every weekend from the 30^th Nov- 23^rd Dec.  Experience the sights, tastes and aromas of a traditional Polish Christmas and book your place in one of the popular Gingerbreadman workshops.

John Roberts Square will transform into its own winter wonderland as it will be home to a number of activities from the 30th November- 23 December. For instance, the beautifully ornate vintage Christmas Carousel will dazzle the young and young at heart. There will also be a gigantic Santa’s post box in the square; making sure all letters are safely delivered to the North Pole! Furthermore, a traditional and atmospheric Christmas experience will also be created in the square by the Carol Singing, the life size Crib at the Cathedral of the Most Holy Trinity and the Rotary Club Christmas Memorial Tree.

Additionally, there will be a number of events which further showcase Waterford's cultural vibrancy. For instance, the iconic and recently refurbished Theatre Royal’s festive programme that will keep adults and children entertained throughout the season. With a Winterval programme which feature the 'Cinderella' pantomime, 'Christmas Crooners', 'Elfie the Elf Returns!',  'Vladimir presents ‘A Vitemeense Christmas’' and  'The Winterval Cabaret';  the Theatre Royal will be providing theatrically spectacular entertainment to suit all tastes! Garter's Lane will also have an exciting programme of shows from the 30th Nov- 23rd Dec including 'A Muppet Christmas' and 'The Little Mermaid. 

Furthermore, Bishop’s Palace will host Georgian Christmas Tours and you can relive Waterford’s Viking heritage with storytelling taking place in Reiginald’s Tower; with all the stories been written by schoolchildren all across the country. Waterford's Viking heritage will also be brought to life this Christmas by ‘YULE’; a vibrant, interactive, working Viking Settlement, which will be brought to life by the sights and sights and sounds of the Waterford Viking Society. Additionally, ‘Winter Illuminates’, which will take place in Cathedral Square and will dazzle onlookers with a truly unique and mesmerizing 3D Light and sound show.

So mark your diary and make sure you visits Waterford City this Christmas season; do not miss out on a enjoying a magical festive experience! Keep an eye out for Waterford Castle Hotel’s special accommodation rates for the Winterval Festival. There is really no better time to visit Waterford city!

For more information in relation to The Waterford Winterval Festival, and for time, dates, locations  and booking details for all activities,  please visit http://www.winterval.ie/ . Tickets for events are on sale now! 

If you a planning a trip to Waterford Castle Hotel, why not view our ‘101 things to do’, which contains a variety of activities which can be enjoyed during your trip. To view the list, please visit www.waterfordcastle.com .

If you are planning to visit Waterford Castle Hotel & Golf Resort or if you have recently stayed with us, why not visit our Tripadvisor page http://www.tripadvisor.ie/Hotel_Review-g186638-d212907-Reviews-Waterford_Castle_Hotel-Waterford_County_Waterford.html .