An exciting line-up of events has been announced for this year’s Comeraghs Wild Festival. The 3 day event, running from Friday 14th July to Sunday 16th July at various venues across the Comeragh region, has something for everyone.
The “Féile at the Falls” event on Friday 14th, presents one of the country’s most accomplished and talented uilleann pipers in David Power, who teams
up with world-renowned harpist Triona Marshall and broadcaster Olivia O’Leary, for a not-to-be-missed open-air concert and poetry recital.
Mahon Falls, Kilrossanty, 10.00pm. Tickets €10
Rathgormack is the place to be on Saturday 15th July if you fancy a great day’s entertainment – you can walk the Lough Mara Loop with guide Michael O’Donoghue followed by a BBQ and then dance the night away to the Michéal Sexton Cèili Band at the Hiking Centre.
Summer Stars is an exciting reading-based programme which is available free of charge to all children across the country.
The Summer Stars Reading Adventure will run from 30th June, during the summer in public libraries all over Ireland. Children are invited to register for the adventure and enjoy reading many books as part of the adventure during this time. All participants will be given a Summer Stars Reading Card to record and track their own progress.
Everyone is invited to check out the Summer Stars website at www.summerstars.ie which has lots of online games and activities as well as a range of animated ebooks. You will find a children’s books discussion board and interviews with well-known people about their favourite books. There are also helpful tips for reading and recommended titles by age group for children to read. The books can then be borrowed from your local library service. And it’s all free!
You can follow Summers Stars on Twitter: @StarsReading and on Facebook.
By now everyone is aware of the Waterford Viking Marathon on the 24th of June, but maybe not everyone is aware of the extent of Council support offered to the event.
This year as many as 3,000 athletes will start on The Mall and the crowd will be one of the largest ever at the starting line!
For 2017 a completely new route was chosen for the Viking Marathon. By including some major landmarks and iconic structures in Waterford it was hoped to reach at least 3,000 registrations and deliver an enjoyable, safe and spectacular event for all.
Celtic Roads Group (CRG) are responsible for the operation and maintenance of the N25 Toll Bridge over the River Suir. This is currently the longest single span Bridge in Ireland (230m) which was opened in 2009 and is named after Thomas Francis Meagher.
CRG were approached with the idea of using this bridge as part of the route for 2017. They were enthusiastic from the start and once this was officially agreed the new route quickly took shape. The new Waterford Greenway could be used, Rice Bridge would be used and the WIT Area was an ideal location for the finish. It was important to continue to use The Mall as the start of the race and keep some familiarity to the race from previous years.
The next challenge was to find a route which could include the quarter, half and full marathon distances. Many days were spent tracing routes on maps and cycling sections to get the required route lengths. Also the Greenway was to be used, so the difficulty was getting from the N25 onto the Greenway.
The roadside embankment could not be removed so some sort of structure had to be designed to get over the embankment and onto the Greenway. This was a complex problem and one which would require careful design and approvals to be granted from Transport Infrastructure Ireland. There was also the issue of the Suir Valley railway which had to be crossed to get runners onto the footpath. After several weeks of negotiations a design was fixed on and the proposed structure was approved.
The next challenge faced was one of our own making.
Improvement works to the City centre would be ongoing through 2017 and finding a route through the City centre was not possible. This required some planning as traffic flow around the City still had to be maintained. We also still had to get the required route distances. Traffic management plans were drawn up by Council Technicians and reviewed and revised by Engineers and Gardaí.
The result is a loop around Parnell Street, Waterside and Catherine Street and back onto The Mall. Great for spectators, but very difficult when you have to get 3,000 participants across a 3 metre wide start line and keep half The Mall free for the fast runners to get to the Quay.
On the day of the Marathon, the roads section will start work at 4am. There will be a total of 34 staff on the day putting in place the traffic management along the route. There will be more than 2,500 cones used, as many as 800 barriers and at least 500 signs. Several Roads in and around the City will be closed on the day and diversions put in place.
There will also be staff from the Cleansing section of the Council assisting on the day with preparation works and the cleanup. Restrictions on traffic movements will be in place on roads adjacent to the route. The priority is to keep everyone safe and that the event is enjoyed by all. This will have an impact on traffic across the City on the day and all road users are asked to be patient. The runners will be showered and changed and most will be gone home before the roads crew finish dismantling the traffic management.
We wish best of luck to all competitors on the day – run well !
Cyclists and walkers may have noticed the “Stop, Look and Listen!” signs along the Waterford Greenway recently. These are not an alert to oncoming traffic but to highlight a lovely project curated by community artist Michael Fortune on traditional songs from the Waterford area.
DVD launch – Stop, Look and Listen – Promoting the Cultural Heritage of the Waterford Greenway
Michael recorded 18 songs from Waterford singers singing on the Greenway route and these can be viewed on www.facebook.com/StopLookListenWaterford. There are songs about emigration, songs of lost love, songs of the war of independence, songs about the landscape and comic songs. Singers include esteemed and well known Waterford names such as Ann Mulqueen, Karan Casey, Micheál Marrinan, Joe Power, John “The Miller” Power, Finbarr Timmins, Larry Joy, Aodán Ó’Ceallaigh and Liam Clancy.
The project was officially launched in Kilmacthomas Primary School last Friday with a performance of traditional songs by pupils from Junior Infants up to 6th class, with traditional singer Aileen Lambert and including a rendition of “The Kilmacthomas Girl” with John Power. Copies of the Stop, Look and Listen DVD featuring the 18 songs are available for €12 from the Heritage Office bguest@waterfordcouncil.ie
With the Sunny South East set to live up to its name here in Waterford this weekend, why not build up to what will be another epic ‘Waterford v Cork Battle’ in Semple Stadium on Sunday afternoon, by joining in one of Waterford’s final Bike Week events of 2017, the Dungarvan Bike Week Breakfast Cycle.
The event starts from Walton Park, Dungarvan (near the Bowling Green) at 7:30 a.m. this coming Sunday 18th June.
This 20k cycle is suitable for all the family and takes a return journey from Dungarvan, out along the fantastic Waterford Greenway as far as Durrow.
The event is followed by a complimentary light breakfast at Sip n’Surf Internet Cafe immediately after your cycle. This is an enjoyable event not to be missed!
Entry is free and you can pre-book your place below
Make-A-Wish fundraiser to help grant wishes for children
Fearless jousting knights on horseback, stunning birds of prey and artisan food and crafts from the four corners of Ireland are just some of the countless attractions expected to spur thousands to attend this year’s Waterford Country Fair, a fun-filled, family-focused fundraiser on Sunday, June 11, which this year will help grant wishes to children with cystic fibrosis through Make-A-Wish Ireland
The third annual Waterford Country Fair is a unique chance for everyone to embrace all that is exciting, fascinating and captivating about country life and living this summer in the extensive grounds of stunning Curraghmore House and Gardens in Portlaw, Co. Waterford.
Shuttle busses are planned from Waterford city and it is hoped that families walking or cycling along the stunning new Waterford Greenway will also make the short journey to Curraghmore for what the organisers promise will be their best Country Fair yet.
Funds raised go to Make-A-Wish Ireland, a children’s charity which grants the wishes of children with life-threatening medical conditions and gives them hope, strength and joy. Make-A-Wish CEO Susan O’Dwyer, says, “We are delighted to be the charity chosen by the Waterford Country Fair committee this year and look forward toholding a fundraising collection at this great family event.
“We recently granted our 2000th wish and since we receive no government funding, we rely on the generosity of the general public to help us to continue to grant wishes to children living with life-threatening illnesses.”
Waterford Country Fair runs on Sunday, June 11, at Curraghmore House & Gardens with funds raised going to Make A Wish. Pictured at the launch of the event were Frankie McEvoy, Make a Wish; Lord Waterford, owner, Curraghmore House & Gardens, Jo Breheny, organiser, along with sisters Alison Goff (5) and Nessa Goff (3).
The day-long event starts from 10am and includes jousting, sheep dog trials, poultry displays, falconry, dressage, side saddle and pony club games qualifiers for the Royal Dublin Horse Show.
Gundog guru, Keith Matthews, makes his first appearance and Fair-goers will also have a chance to try their hand at fly fishing, archery and so much more, Committee Chairperson, Jo Breheny, explained.
“We’ve delighted to have the jousters back – they were a huge hit last year and they really add to the sense of occasion on what is always a fantastic family day out. We’re thrilled to link up with Make-A-Wish, a charity that does so much good work.
“Our event is very much the Bloom for Country Living. All of the popular attractions are back, such as live music, beekeeping and a “living” medieval village which will quite literally take visitors back in time to experience medieval life in Ireland,” Jo explained.
Purple Flag Ireland has secured an exhibition stand at the Bloom Festival 1st – 5th June 2017 in the Phoenix Park to promote awareness of Purple Flag in Ireland at ‘Ireland’s best loved urban and lifestyle festival.’
This is a fantastic opportunity to reach a huge audience with an average of 115,000 people attending Bloom over the bank holiday weekend.
Purple Flag Waterford are thrilled to have been invited to represent Waterford and Purple Flag on Sunday 4th June at the stand. To create a buzz and encourage engagement at the exhibition stand, there will be competitions and prizes run each day sponsored by the various Purple Flag locations.
Make-A-Wish fundraiser to help grant wishes for children
Fearless jousting knights on horseback, stunning birds of prey and artisan food and crafts from the four corners of Ireland are just some of the countless attractions expected to spur thousands to attend this year’s Waterford Country Fair, a fun-filled, family-focused fundraiser on Sunday, June 11, which this year will help grant wishes to children with cystic fibrosis through Make-A-Wish Ireland
The third annual Waterford Country Fair is a unique chance for everyone to embrace all that is exciting, fascinating and captivating about country life and living this summer in the extensive grounds of stunning Curraghmore House and Gardens in Portlaw, Co. Waterford.
Shuttle busses are planned from Waterford city and it is hoped that families walking or cycling along the stunning new Waterford Greenway will also make the short journey to Curraghmore for what the organisers promise will be their best Country Fair yet.
Funds raised go to Make-A-Wish Ireland, a children’s charity which grants the wishes of children with life-threatening medical conditions and gives them hope, strength and joy. Make-A-Wish CEO Susan O’Dwyer, says, “We are delighted to be the charity chosen by the Waterford Country Fair committee this year and look forward toholding a fundraising collection at this great family event.
“We recently granted our 2000th wish and since we receive no government funding, we rely on the generosity of the general public to help us to continue to grant wishes to children living with life-threatening illnesses.”
Waterford Country Fair runs on Sunday, June 11, at Curraghmore House & Gardens with funds raised going to Make A Wish. Pictured at the launch of the event were Frankie McEvoy, Make a Wish; Lord Waterford, owner, Curraghmore House & Gardens, Jo Breheny, organiser, along with sisters Alison Goff (5) and Nessa Goff (3).
The day-long event starts from 10am and includes jousting, sheep dog trials, poultry displays, falconry, dressage, side saddle and pony club games qualifiers for the Royal Dublin Horse Show.
Gundog guru, Keith Matthews, makes his first appearance and Fair-goers will also have a chance to try their hand at fly fishing, archery and so much more, Committee Chairperson, Jo Breheny, explained.
“We’ve delighted to have the jousters back – they were a huge hit last year and they really add to the sense of occasion on what is always a fantastic family day out. We’re thrilled to link up with Make-A-Wish, a charity that does so much good work.
“Our event is very much the Bloom for Country Living. All of the popular attractions are back, such as live music, beekeeping and a “living” medieval village which will quite literally take visitors back in time to experience medieval life in Ireland,” Jo explained.
Mayor of Waterford City and County Council, Cllr. Adam Wyse recently launched the programme for National Bike Week events on the Waterford Greenway with the help of students from Gael Scoil na nDéise.
Bike Week 2017 will take place from Saturday 10th to Sunday 18th June, with bike related events taking place right around the country. Waterford is no different and in fact, we have a very strong tradition where Bike Week is concerned. In all, there are almost 50 events taking place right across Waterford City and County over the course of the week to suit all ages and fitness levels.
The programme is targeted primarily at those new or returning to cycling or those who just want to enjoy a leisurely spin with friends and family!
Bike Week, which is funded at national level by the Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport, is about celebrating all of the benefits of cycling for both recreation and transport. Those wishing to be part of the fun should find an event in a location to suit all comers.
There are Family Fun Cycles, bike check-ups, community cycles and school cycling events taking place right across Waterford, from Ardsallagh in the west to Faithlegg in the east and many towns and villages in between, as well as Waterford City itself.
Look out for Bike Week updates on www.bikeweek.ie or www.waterfordcouncil.ie in the coming weeks. You can also contact the local bike week coordinator Johnny Brunnock, Waterford City & County Council at jbrunnock@waterfordcouncil.ie; 0761 10 2496 more details on how to get involved.
So come on Waterford, “Get on Your Bike!” from 10th to 18th June!
Make-A-Wish fundraiser to help grant wishes for children
Fearless jousting knights on horseback, stunning birds of prey and artisan food and crafts from the four corners of Ireland are just some of the countless attractions expected to spur thousands to attend this year’s Waterford Country Fair, a fun-filled, family-focused fundraiser on Sunday, June 11, which this year will help grant wishes to children with cystic fibrosis through Make-A-Wish Ireland
The third annual Waterford Country Fair is a unique chance for everyone to embrace all that is exciting, fascinating and captivating about country life and living this summer in the extensive grounds of stunning Curraghmore House and Gardens in Portlaw, Co. Waterford.
Shuttle busses are planned from Waterford city and it is hoped that families walking or cycling along the stunning new Waterford Greenway will also make the short journey to Curraghmore for what the organisers promise will be their best Country Fair yet.
Funds raised go to Make-A-Wish Ireland, a children’s charity which grants the wishes of children with life-threatening medical conditions and gives them hope, strength and joy. Make-A-Wish CEO Susan O’Dwyer, says, “We are delighted to be the charity chosen by the Waterford Country Fair committee this year and look forward toholding a fundraising collection at this great family event.
“We recently granted our 2000th wish and since we receive no government funding, we rely on the generosity of the general public to help us to continue to grant wishes to children living with life-threatening illnesses.”
Waterford Country Fair runs on Sunday, June 11, at Curraghmore House & Gardens with funds raised going to Make A Wish. Pictured at the launch of the event were Frankie McEvoy, Make a Wish; Lord Waterford, owner, Curraghmore House & Gardens, Jo Breheny, organiser, along with sisters Alison Goff (5) and Nessa Goff (3).
The day-long event starts from 10am and includes jousting, sheep dog trials, poultry displays, falconry, dressage, side saddle and pony club games qualifiers for the Royal Dublin Horse Show.
Gundog guru, Keith Matthews, makes his first appearance and Fair-goers will also have a chance to try their hand at fly fishing, archery and so much more, Committee Chairperson, Jo Breheny, explained.
“We’ve delighted to have the jousters back – they were a huge hit last year and they really add to the sense of occasion on what is always a fantastic family day out. We’re thrilled to link up with Make-A-Wish, a charity that does so much good work.
“Our event is very much the Bloom for Country Living. All of the popular attractions are back, such as live music, beekeeping and a “living” medieval village which will quite literally take visitors back in time to experience medieval life in Ireland,” Jo explained.
Established in 1995, Bealtaine is Ireland’s national festival
which celebrates the arts and creativity as we age. The festival
takes place each May and is co-ordinated by Age & Opportunity, the national organization which promotes active and engaged living as we get older.
Waterford Libraries invites you to find something you like in
this wide and varied programme of fun activities, workshops,
tours, talks and much more.
All our events are free but places are limited so booking is
essential. Waterford Libraries wish you a rich, engaging and fun
Bealtaine Festival 2017!
Sign up and pedal Waterford to the top of the European leaderboard!
The European Cycling Challenge – ECC2017 is a urban cyclists’ team competition. It takes place from 1 to 31 May 2017. It is a challenge among European cities: the City that “rides” the longest total distance wins! We’re competing for the top spot against 50 other European Regions to see who will earn the Yellow Jersey.
So what do you need to do?
Simply sign up, log your trips during May, and let’s get cycling in Waterford noticed. It doesn’t matter whether you cycle just 5km, or 500kms over the next month, every km counts! The goal is to get out and just enjoy the cycling you do.
You can register for the challenge through the App or through the website (see below). We recommend the App as it will also track your trips once the challenge starts.
To Register through the FREE Naviki App:
Follow these simple steps below and with a little patience, your effort in signing up should pay off. A visual user guide for registering with the App can also be found here: http://cyclingchallenge.eu/users-guide
A) Download the App
B) Register via settings for Naviki (remember your USERNAME)
C) Click on the confirmation link e-mailed to you
D) Log in (using your USERNAME not your e-mail), go to SETTINGS and tap ‘CONTESTS’ and then ‘ECC2017’; and swipe the ‘I’m participating’ button to join your City, your workplace Sub-team (if participating) and the Local Authority Area that you live in. Note – If your workplace is not listed, and would like it to be, please email contact@waterfordcouncil.ie
This prize is open to all writers currently living on the island of Ireland. The prize will be presented at the Imagine Music & Arts Festival incorporating the Waterford Writers Weekend – 19th-29th October 2017.
