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Waterford City

By Waterford City & County Council

Waterford City’s history brought to life by digital story walking trail

A new digital story trail featuring augmented reality was recently launched in Waterford, offering tourists an engaging way to discover Waterford’s history via their smartphone.

Waterford City and County Council in partnership with Imvizar, and with Fáilte Ireland funding under the Destination Town’s Initiative, launched Waterford’s new digital walking trail, which explores the history, culture, and heritage of 15 different locations in the heart of the city centre, including Reginald’s Tower and Waterford Crystal.

Through the use of augmented reality smartphone technology, visitors and locals can experience Waterford’s past by watching digital animations of characters and architecture appear as if they are in the physical world right in front of them. The trail can be accessed for free by scanning one of the numerous QR codes on signs located throughout the city trail.

Speaking at the launch in Waterford’s Medieval Museum, Mayor of Waterford City and County, Cllr John O’ Leary said, “This new digital trail is a first for the South East.  By breathing life into Waterford’s fascinating history and heritage, locals and visitors will be able to get a true sense of Waterford as it was centuries ago.

“Waterford’s Digital Trail is a wonderful addition to our tourism offering.  We have a rich and proud history as Waterford’s Oldest city and to be able to quite literally go back in time and meet the characters from our past is as exciting as it is educational.”

In addition to meeting life-like characters from Waterford’s past, scanning the QR code also provides an audio tale from an historical figure, coupled with interesting facts and a timeline of events. Spanning over a thousand years of Waterford’s history, tourists can listen as Reginald, a Viking King and warlord from the 10th century, describes his quest to launch raids all over Ireland and watch as Thomas Francis Meagher, Leader of the Young Irelanders in the 1848 Rebellion, raises the first Irish tricolour.

Waterford’s history of master craft making is also recognised.  Rachel Penrose, the wife of one of the founders of Waterford Crystal, William Penrose, appears in a recreation of an 18th century glass-blowing scene. Trail users can also meet Anastasia Fleming, a silversmith from the late 1700s, and see a reimagined façade of her silversmith shop.

Adele Keane, Creative Producer, Imvizar said, “When crafting the digital story trail, we wanted to focus on conserving Waterford’s heritage by giving voices to both well-known and lesser-known historical figures. By hearing their stories, and sometimes seeing them in their surroundings, we can better put ourselves in their shoes and imagine what life was like as a silversmith in the 18th century or as a young soldier in World War I.”

Brian O’ Flynn, Head of Regional Development, Ireland’s Ancient East, added, “Fáilte Ireland was pleased to support the development of the innovative Digital Story Trail through our Destination Town Investment Scheme. As today’s tourists are looking for more unique and compelling ways to immerse themselves in the local culture, heritage and history of a destination, this Digital Story Trail will help bring the story of Ireland’s oldest city to life, in new, immersive exciting ways. In addition, the trail, along with the enhancement work at the Viking Triangle due to be completed later this year, will encourage visitors to stay longer both during the day and into the evening, further spreading the benefits of tourism to the local area.”

The new augmented reality story trail from Waterford City and County Council offers a fresh perspective on storytelling that evokes emotions and allows users to walk away with a more memorable experience.

To see the trail in action, visit: https://digitalstorytrail.visitwaterford.com/  (The Digital Story Trail is a mobile experience)

 

By Waterford City & County Council

Part 8 – Urban Animation Scheme – “City of Lights”

In accordance with Article 81 of Part 8 of the Planning and Development Regulations 2001 (as amended), notice is hereby given that Waterford City and County Council proposes to carry out the following development:
Urban Animation Scheme – “City of Lights”

Waterford City & County Council intend to introduce outdoor lighting of iconic buildings and the City walls in 19 locations. The lighting will be by various means including but not limited to flood lighting, wall mounted Linear LED luminaires, ground mounted LED luminaires and projectors.  Lighting will be programmable so that they can changed throughout the evening and be leveraged by festivals to celebrate events and will be used nightly or as considered appropriate.

Numbers 1 to 7 and 9 to 18 are protected structures. All sites are within an Architectural Conservation Area.

For full listing, and associated documents, click here: https://waterfordcouncil.ie/projects/public-consultations/index.htm

By Waterford City & County Council

Jam-packed three-day St. Patrick’s Day Celebrations back in 2023

Photo by Colin Shanahan – DigiCol Photography (c) 2022 – http://www.digicolphotography.com

Last year following a two-year hiatus which put paid to mass gatherings and celebrations throughout the world, Waterford City and County Council saw the long-awaited return of the St. Patrick’s Day Parade, along with the successful inaugural St. Patrick’s Festival.

Waterford City and County Council’s Community Team and EveryEvent, with the support of Fáilte Ireland, are delighted to announce the return of the St. Patrick’s Day parade and the festival celebrations – three days of craic agus ceol, live entertainment, pageantry, and tradition from March 17th to March 19th, 2023.

The theme for the Parade this year is “The Best of Waterford”, which is reflected in its people and communities, its culture and heritage, its diversity, and its musical and artistic talent.

Mayor of Waterford City and County Cllr. John O’Leary said,

“The success of last years’ parade and festivities proved the affection that our national holiday is held in.  It goes without saying that we have an infectious community spirit.

We want to make this year’s parade even bigger and better.  If your sports club, community group, local business or dance troupe wants to make a big impression on the crowds this year, we’d love to see you line out for the parade, which will wind its way down the Quay, from the Bus Station to the Viewing Stand on the Mall.”

Spraoi, which recently celebrated 30 years of great street theatre, will also bring its magic, flair and imagination to the parade.  TV Honan, Director of Spraoi encouraged groups to get involved.  “The theme this year is the ‘Best of Waterford’, so wherever or whomever you take your inspiration from, let your imagination run wild and have some fun!”

Waterford has a long-held association with St. Patrick’s Day.  In February 1903, before March 17th was ever declared a National Day of Celebration, a meeting was held in the Town Hall in Waterford where the citizens unanimously voted to make St. Patrick’s Day a ‘general holiday’ where local businesses would close in order to allow everyone to celebrate.  That year Waterford was Ireland’s first city to hold a St. Patrick’s Day Parade.

Details of the St. Patrick’s Day Parade and festival event will be revealed in the coming weeks, however Johnny Codd, Festival Director, said there will be plenty for all to enjoy.

“The events making up the three-day festival this year will have an eclectic appeal.  While we are putting the finishing touches to the festival programme with EveryEvent, rest assured that there will be some great events taking place. 

“Some of the highlights include three outdoor live music stages in the city, a festival fairground, poetry events, river cruises and fascinating history tours, with more to be revealed in the coming weeks.”

If you would like to take part in Waterford’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade visit www.stpatricksfestivalwaterford.com and keep up to date with all that’s going on in Waterford from March 17th to 19th during the St. Patrick’s Festival on Facebook at WaterfordStPatricksDayParade.

-ENDS-

Images:  Digicol Photography

Putting the final touches to the St Patrick’s Day Festival 2023 programme, l-r:  John Grubb EveryEvent; Mayor of Waterford City and County Cllr. John O’Leary and TV Honan, Spraoi

By Waterford City & County Council

Statement from Waterford City & County Council on death of Cllr. Davy Daniels

The Mayor of Waterford City and County, Cllr. John O’Leary has paid tribute to his long-time friend and colleague, Cllr. Davy Daniels (Ind), who passed away on January 10th, 2023.

Cllr. Daniels had a long and distinguished career in local politics, having first been elected to Waterford Corporation in 1974.

He served as Mayor of Waterford in 1987/1988 and 2000/2001 and most recently as Metropolitan Mayor in 2020/2021.

Mayor of Waterford City and County, Cllr. John O’ Leary said, “Davy was steadfast in his role in prioritising the future of Waterford’s development, through and in tandem with communities, charities, business groups and residents’ associations.

“As a man who loved sport, Davy was committed to the enhancement and provision of sporting amenities. He derived great pleasure when a sports club secured a new pitch, ground or changing facilities.  He played an integral part in the development of the Regional Sports Centre, Williamstown Sport Complex, and the People’s Park, being only too well aware of the benefits that sport can bring to individuals and groups.

“A passionate advocate of the arts and culture scene, he was protective of Waterford’s theatrical, musical, and visual arts communities, seeking funding and support in order to keep Waterford’s creativity shining bright.

“In addition to his passion, commitment, and dedication he remained throughout a genuine people-person.  Everyone who met him was touched by his warm, caring persona.  He had time and a word for everybody he encountered.  That to me, is what exemplified Davy, a dedicated councillor, a proud Waterford man and a compassionate human being.”

Michael Walsh, Chief Executive of Waterford City and County Council also paid tribute to Ireland’s longest serving city-based councillor.  “Davy was first elected in 1974 and in the intervening years, he never lost the spark or passion, and that’s what made him a great public representative.

He was committed to the betterment of Waterford, be it through economic development, education, social and cultural enhancement, and the promotion of our tourism and archaeological heritage.  He never stopped beating the drum for his native city.

On behalf of the Council executive, I wish to extend deepest condolences to his wife Mary, his sons Liam and David, his grandchildren, his extended family, and wide circle of friends and colleagues.”

A Book of Condolence will be opened at City Hall on the Mall and Civic Offices, Dungarvan from 2pm today (January 11th).  An online Book of Condolence is also available at https://bit.ly/CllrDavyDaniels-RIP

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By Waterford City & County Council

Waterford once again ranked as Ireland’s Cleanest City

Once again Waterford has emerged as Ireland’s Cleanest City in the Irish Business Against Litter (IBAL) Anti-Litter League.  The city ranked 12th out of 40 cities and towns and was classed as Clean to European Norms.

The report cited that Waterford City performed strongly once again and went on to add, ‘What is so encouraging is that a previously highlighted site has since been addressed – the Miscellaneous site (diagonally opposite train station) at the Bridge…this time around it was a much-improved site with a virtual absence of litter.’

Areas such as Broad Street / Barronstrand Street, Plunkett Train Station, Medieval Triangle / Cultural Quarter, People’s Park, and the grounds of Waterford Courthouse, were regarded as excellent sites, were well presented and maintained and a complete absence of litter was noted throughout.

The report also noted that ‘based on the amount of litter / cigarette butt notices and the lack of litter at Bus Eireann Bus Station, it is clear that litter is taken very seriously.’

Several approach roads to Waterford city received a Grade A ranking.  It was noted that the R448 Newrath Approach Road was ‘a very freshly presented route with very minimal litter items throughout and presented a very good first impression of Waterford City, and this was maintained for many of the remainder of the sites surveyed.’  The Cork Road approach was ‘an exceptionally freshly presented route with excellent road surfaces / markings.  No visible litter issues throughout the stretch of road surveyed.’  A virtual absence of litter was noted along the Tramore Approach Road also.

Other sites which performed very well included IDA Industrial Estate, SETU Cork Road, George’s Street, Kingfisher Sports Facility, and Bolton Street Car Park.

The Riverwalk from Edmund Rice Bridge to Wallace Memorial, where extensive enhancement works have taken place is improved by ‘attractive new paving looks very well. All aspects of the area surveyed were in excellent condition e.g., signage, lifebelts, seating, planted areas etc. It was excellent with regard to litter.’

Waterford Nature Reserve / Kilbarry Nature Park is an extraordinarily clean site with ‘just one mineral can throughout an entire 2km route!’

The Bring Centre at Tesco, Ardkeen was however described as a litter blackspot that wasn’t just casually littered but ‘subject to dumping.’

There was a strong performance for Ballybeg over the previous survey.  A couple of sites which had previous been heavily littered have since been addressed.   The main access routes were all top ranking, along with Tesco and Ballybeg Park / Playground with the latter a lovely amenity which was very well presented and maintained.

Fergus Galvin, Director of Services with Waterford City and County Council said that Waterford’s status as Ireland’s Cleanest City was once again a great achievement for the city.

“Waterford’s standing as the cleanest city is a result of the hard work and dedication of a number of integral groups…voluntary committees, local schools, the business community, and the staff of Waterford City and County Council’s Cleansing Section.

“Environmental awareness initiatives have also played a key role in informing and engaging future generations.  The recent Anti-litter challenge for secondary schools with Tom Murphy Car Sales, Green Schools, and Picker Pals go a long way to instil a sense of pride in our place for school-going children and young adults.

“Combined with initiatives like 2GoCup, which tackles the issue of single use plastics; the introduction of wash stations for reusables at food festivals, and the Gum Litter Task force have all paid dividends as they help keep our public realm spaces spotless.”

Further initiatives that Waterford City and County Council promoted and supported in 2022 included the Green Dog Walker Programme, Leave No Trace, work with Tidy Towns and other community groups and the Anti-Graffiti and Anti-Litter Awareness Grant Scheme.

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By Waterford City & County Council

Draft Control of Parking Bye-Laws 2023

The Metropolitan District of Waterford in exercise of the powers conferred on it by Section 131A of the Local Government Acts 1925 to 2014, Section 36 of the Road Traffic Act, 1994, as amended, and by Section 101 of the Road Traffic Act, 1961, as amended, hereby gives notice that it has prepared Draft Control of  Parking Bye-Laws for the regulation and control of parking in respect of the area comprising the Metropolitan District of Waterford.

The Draft Bye-Laws are available for inspection below and during normal office hours from Tuesday 27th December to Thursday 26th January 2023, at the Council’s Customer Services Departments in Civic Offices, Dungarvan and Bailey’s New Street, Waterford.

The Council will consider any submissions or observations made in writing regarding the Draft Control of Parking Bye-Laws 2023.  Submissions should be lodged with Aideen Jacob, Administrative Officer, Roads Department, Menapia Building, The Mall, Waterford or by email to ajacob@waterfordcouncil.ie to be received before 4.00pm on Thursday 9th February, 2023.

By Waterford City & County Council

Time to Celebrate the Winter Solstice in Waterford

Unveiling of a gigantic new clock at the Irish Museum of Time and countdown to a Winter Firedance Firework display at Winterval

A wonderful winter solstice celebration is planned for Waterford City on the evening of December 21st 2022. The collaborative event planned by the Waterford City Arts Office, the Waterford Treasures Irish Museum of Time and the Winterval festival will offer a historic moment, live music and a fireworks display.

The evening will commence at 8pm on the Plaza with a pre-celebration for the winter solstice meanwhile, at 8:15 at the Museum of Time at Greyfriars where a very special new outside clock, named Tempus Fugit (Time Flies) will be unveiled by the Mayor of Waterford Cllr. John O’Leary, horologists David Boles and Colman Curran and a representative of Fáilte Ireland. The clock, which has been designed by artists Eithne Ring and Liam Lavery of Cork and created by Keating Fabrication in Waterford, is an elaborate design featuring wings spanning about six metres; the wings are made up of seven steel dials each. It will chime on the hour and once the sun sets visitors can admire the colourful lighting on the wings and main clock face.

Members of the public are invited to join the occasion where the new clock will be unveiled following a performance from the Thomas Francis Meagher Fife and Drum Band at Greyfriars. Following the unveiling of the clock, once the chimes complete a countdown to the fireworks at 9 pm the city will be alight as the Winter Solstice is celebrated.

This is the 2nd year of the Winter Firedance – the award nominated celebration of the December Solstice. There will be great music on the William Vincent Wallace Plaza from 8pm culminating with the spectacular ‘Skydance’ Fireworks display at 9pm sharp.

Speaking of the new clock and its relevance for the solstice, Director of Waterford Treasures Museum Collection Eamonn McEneaney says: “Over 7,000 years ago our first farmers celebrated the Winter Solstice as a major turning point in the year. It heralded longer days and the beginning of a new cycle of growth. As Ireland’s only Museum of Time, we are delighted to continue to celebrate the Winter Solstice and its significance to timekeeping. The sun has always been tremendously important to the telling of time and for centuries watch- and clock-makers have relied on it to calibrate their timepieces. We would like to thank David Boles, co-founder of the Irish Museum of Time, and Fáilte Ireland, without whose support this sculpture would not have been possible.”

Funding for the creation of this imaginative clock has been very generously supported by Fáilte Ireland’s Urban Animation Scheme and by horologist David Boles and has been supported by Waterford City and County Council.

Ciara Sugrue, Head of Festivals and Events, “Urban animation plays an increasingly important role in transforming and reimagining our public spaces as safe, welcoming and vibrant places to visit. This is important in attracting visitors to our towns and cities and increasing dwell time, to support local tourism and hospitality businesses and jobs. The new clock that is being unveiled on December 21st is part of Fáilte Ireland’s Urban Animation project “City of Lights” in Waterford City, which is due to launch in 2023. Waterford is Ireland’s oldest city and this project will bring old tales to life in new, innovative ways, so they can be enjoyed by visitors, as well as the local community.”

In addition to the celebrations on the Quayside, the Winterval festival will remain open late until 9.30 pm on the evening of December 21st.

Billed as Ireland’s largest Christmas festival, Winterval in Waterford offers a trail of 38 events with 25 on offer free of charge in addition to the special one-off events to celebrate the festival’s 10th birthday celebrations from November 18th to December 23rd.

Highlights include the Gerbola Christmas Circus, the vintage Ferris wheel at Arundel Square, a vintage carousel, the Port of Waterford Eye, the Winterval Mini Express train, a virtual ride in Santa’s sleigh, plus a Wizards and Dragons interactive exhibition and even Santa Paws for doggies. Waterford’s heritage takes a prime position with Déise Medieval who will host a traditional Viking Settlement, plus Santa’s Central Station is on Broad Street where he is meeting and greeting boys and girls for the entire festival.

In addition, there is an abundant programme of Music and Theatre. Ben Hennessy presents a new Shadow Puppetry Show at the beautiful GLOW Gardens at Winterval on Friday, Saturday and Sunday evenings. At the Apple Market each weekend a free show sponsored by WAMA & Theatrebox, which will engage with young spectators who can take part in the collection of Santa’s posts will be on offer.  Join Winterval’s Resident Storyteller Kitty Caboodle for a selection of songs and stories at The Book Centre.

The Winterval Live Stage offers 20 Days of Live Performances during the festival. House of Waterford Crystal is delighted to present its Annual Winter Music Series and there is lots more.

The full Winterval Festival programme is available to view and book online at www.winterval.ie

By Waterford City & County Council

Construction begins on new €7m Ferrybank Pump Station at former Dunlop site

Waterford City and County Council and Irish Water have commenced construction on a new pump station in Ferrybank to improve the overall wastewater infrastructure.  The project represents a further step in the continued delivery of improvements to the wastewater network in Ferrybank.

Funded by Irish Water, the Department of Housing, Planning and Local Government’s Urban Regeneration and Development Fund (URDF), NTA and Waterford City and County Council, the project will see the upgraded station replace the existing pump station and be located to the former Dunlop site, which now forms an integral part of the North Quays Strategic Development Zone (SDZ).

The new pump station will have expanded storage to significantly reduce the frequency of sewage overflows into the River Suir during wet weather events, improve wastewater capacity in the Ferrybank catchment area, and meet all environmental standards for discharge of sewage overflows.

The existing Ferrybank pump station occupies a small but central part of the Waterford North Quays Strategic Development Zone (SDZ).  This is an eight-hectare site pivotally located in the centre of the region’s City and designated as a SDZ in 2016.  The site had remained derelict for decades and hindered the integration, attractiveness, and sustainable development of the City Centre and consequently the surrounding area.  However, the decommissioning of this station and the construction of an improved facility will allow for the development of a derelict City Centre Strategic site.

Commenting on the upgrade, Mayor of Waterford City and County, Cllr. John O’Leary said, “This investment in a new pumping station in Ferrybank will have far-reaching benefits to the catchment area.  Sewage overflows will be exponentially decreased which will undoubtedly be welcomed by the local community.

“The implementation of much improved wastewater infrastructure will improve flood protection, reduce the sites carbon footprint and facilitate future development as the catchment area grows.”

Lisa Cogan from Irish Water said, “We are delighted to be making progress on this essential wastewater improvement project in Ferrybank and as a result of the collaborative works between Irish Water and Waterford City and County Council, the local community will see the benefits for years to come in terms of health, integrity of the environment and improved water quality for all.

“The construction of the pumping station and new wastewater pipes will ensure wastewater infrastructure capacity can meet future demand and support social and economic development in the Ferrybank area.”

Upon completion the project will reduce the risk of sewer overflow with the catchment, improve the separation of foul and surface water networks, enhance the water quality of the River Suir though improved foul water storage and reduced overflows and ensure compliance with the EU Urban Wastewater Treatment Directives.

David Walsh Civil Engineering is the main contractor on the project, with Consultant Engineers from Nicholas O’Dwyer Consulting Engineers, and Roughan & O’Donovan Consulting Engineers.  Works are expected to be completed by December 2023.

Earlier this month, the Government gave approval for €170.6m of investment in the Waterford North Quays Infrastructure Project.

The transformative project will create a sustainable modern mixed-use development that will harness and extend Waterford’s city centre, whilst reinstating the primacy of the river by creating a compact and vibrant core centred on the River Suir.  The funding announced will deliver the public infrastructure that will serve both the SDZ site and the public, including enhanced multi-modal access routes, an integrated transport hub and the sustainable transport bridge.

The infrastructure will enable the commercial development on the SDZ Site, which will include offices, residential, retail, accommodation, and tourism investment in conference/exhibition facilities, as well as a 4-star hotel and visitor’s centre.

While elements of the project will have important transport and socio-economic benefits, the main objective is to leverage further investment in Waterford City and the region, by attracting indigenous and multinational companies and the retail and tourism sectors.  The development of the North Quays as a modern multi-purpose development on the North site of the city will increase employment, provide much needed high quality residential units, enhance the retail offer and build on Waterford’s reputation as the Best Place to Live in Ireland.

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Photographs: Patrick Browne

By Waterford City & County Council

Bridge Lift at Rice Bridge

Bridge Lift at Rice Bridge, Monday 21st November at 10.00am

By Waterford City & County Council

Reminder : Winterval – updated Road Closure arrangements

Notice is hereby given that Waterford City and County Council, in exercise of its powers pursuant to Section 75 Roads Act 1993, will close the following public roads to through traffic to facilitate the Winterval 2022 Christmas Festival:

  1. From 11pm Monday 7th November 2022 until 11pm Sunday 8th January 2023 the following street will be closed for the Winterval Christmas Market:
    Arundel Square – L5532 (from its junction with Peter Street to Conduit lane).
    Please Note: The Bus Stop and Taxi Rank on Peter Street will operate as normal.
  2. From 11am Monday 14th November 2022 until 11pm Friday 30th December 2022 the following street will be closed for the Winterval Santa Installation.
    Michael Street (North) – L-1527 (from it’s junction with Lady Lane and Patrick St)
  3. On Friday 18th November 2022 from 2pm until 7pm the following streets will close for the arrival of Santa Claus and the switching on of the Christmas Lights.
    Barronstrand Street – L91092
    Broad Street – L91092
    Great Georges Street – L-90352
  4. On Friday 18th November 2022 from 3:30pm until 6pm the following streets will close for the arrival of Santa Claus and the switching on of the Christmas Lights.
    Peter Street – L-5531
    Patrick Street – L-1525 (from its junction with Mayors Walk)
    Bakehouse Lane – L5530
    Note: Between 4pm and 4:30pm Friday 18th November there may be significant delays outbound on The Quay and through traffic should divert via Ashe Road.
  5. From 10pm Sunday 13th November 2022 until 10pm Sunday 8th January 2023 the following street will be closed for the Winterval Christmas Market:
    O’Connell Street – L1502 (from its junction with Hanover Street to Sargents Lane).
    Great Georges Street – L-90352 (from its junction with John Roberts Square)
  6. On the following Times & Dates the area known as John Roberts Square, consisting of the roads listed below will be closed to facilitate the Winterval Festival.
    – 11am Saturday 19th November until 10pm Sunday 20th November
    – 11am Saturday 26th November until 10pm Sunday 27th November
    – 11am Saturday 3rd December until 10pm Sunday 4th December
    – 11am Saturday 10th December until 10pm Sunday 11th December
    – 11am Saturday 17th December until 10pm Sunday 18th December
    – 11am until 10pm each day from Monday 19th until Friday 23rd December
    Barronstrand Street – L91092
    Broad Street – L91092
  7. On Wednesday 21st December 2022 from 4pm until 11pm the following public Car Park and Roads shall close to facilitate a public outdoor Winterval Solstice Event.
    Thomas Hill (L15021) – There will be no access to Thomas Hill from Francis Street, access from O’Connell Street shall be unaffected.
    Meeting House Lane (L15022) – Residential Access only
    Jenkins Lane Car Park (L90356) – All cars must vacate by 6pm
    Little Patrick Street (L90355)
  8. Each Saturday from Saturday 19th November 2022 until Friday 16th December 2022 the area known as Applemarket will the host of the Santa’s Elves Christmas letter Collection Winterval Event and other Christmas Events. Residential and Emergency Access to Spring Garden Alley will be unaffected.
    The usual road Closures for the Applemarket will apply.

By Waterford City & County Council

Winterval Festival officially opens in Waterford today and is set to welcome 600,000 festivalgoers

Ireland’s Christmas Festival will officially open in Waterford City this evening (Friday, November 18th) with the arrival of the country’s first Christmas Parade commencing at 5:15 pm in the Viking City.Santa Claus is, of course, the grand marshal and at 5:15 pm he will arrive in the city centre in a gigantic bauble having parked up his sleigh for the duration of this stay in Waterford, until December 23rd. The parade will commence from The Clock Tower on Waterford’s historic quayside and travel up Barronstrand Street into John Robert’s Square where upon reaching the main stage Santa and his band of merry elves will join the Mayor of Waterford Cllr John O’Leary in officially lighting up the festive season in Waterford as they switch on the lights at 6 pm.The festival organiser’s are expecting 600,000 people to enjoy the Winterval Festival between now and Christmas Eve delivering an economic contribution of €30 million.Festival Directors John Grubb and Trevor Darmody say, “Winterval is a festival which has broken all records and apart from covid impacted years it has grown exponentially each year. This year being the 10th anniversary of the festival there is an extra special programme of events on offer with a different one-off special event taking place each weekend in addition to the ongoing festival programme. For that reason, coupled with the delight of the freedom to enjoy Christmas once again, ticket sales are thriving and anticipation for the festival is high.There are six weeks of Winterval and we are expecting 100,000 festivalgoers for each of those weekends, we have 40 events on offer with 25 of those on offer for free, so there is plenty to see and do and room for crowds to enjoy the expanse of the festival and the city.The expected economic boost from a breakdown of day trippers from outside of Waterford and from domestic overnight visitors would offer an economic boost to the City in the region of €30 million. The festival also created over 500 seasonal jobs directly plus multiple indirect jobs and we have hundreds of volunteers and community groups involved too.This is all a huge economic boost to the city and is essential for what is typically an ‘off-season’ tourism time of the year and to support businesses that were greatly impacted during pandemic lockdowns.”Winterval Festival highlights include a gigantic and magical talking postbox with an elf post-collection show each weekend, magic mirrors and a host of free children’s workshops, a free shadow puppet show plus the magic lights of GLOW in New Street Gardens. The Winterval Illuminates light show on offer every half hour, the ice rink on the city’s Quayside to the vintage Ferris wheel at Arundel Square, a vintage carousel, the Port of Waterford Eye, the Winterval Mini Express train, a virtual ride in Santa’s sleigh plus a Wizard and Dragon interactive exhibition. Plus there will be Santa Paws for doggies and the Gerbola Circus will be hosting a festive circus show in their heated Big Top tent each weekend.Santa takes centre stage at the festival in the heart of the city at Santa’s Central Station. There will be live music on stage each weekend in Waterford’s cultural quarter featuring a mix of community and professional acts serving as the perfect backdrop to the wonderful Winterval Christmas market set out in a series of attractive wooden chalets through the spine of Ireland’s oldest city into the cultural quarter.Waterford’s heritage takes a prime position with Déise Medieval will host a traditional Viking Settlement. A Winterval by night programme will be offered at The Reg alongside their World Cup fan zone, plus Christmas concerts at the Cathedral and music at Waterford Crystal.10th birthday one-off special events include Waterford’s newest Comic Convention, a Blue Lights Parade, a Jingle Bells cycling event a sparkling Tractor Parade and BuskAid takes place on December 22nd to raise funds for Tinteán Housing which is the Winterval Festival dedicated charity for 2022.The Winterval festival is supported by Waterford City and County Council. The full Winterval Festival programme is available to view and book online at www.winterval.ie ENDS

By Waterford City & County Council

Winterval 2022 opens tomorrow with a 10th Birthday Celebration event

The number of ‘sleeps’ to the official opening of the 10th annual Winterval festival is limited, and with just 1 sleep to go until the festival opens in Waterford on November 18th the city is buzzing with excitement, twinkling lights and anticipation.

At precisely 5.15 pm on Friday (November 18th) the country’s first Christmas Parade will swing into the City with all the bells and whistles of the festive season.

Santa Claus himself will be seated in the middle of a gigantic bauble as he leads the parade from the clock Tower travelling up through Barronstrand Street and John Roberts Square, continuing through Broad Street and finishing at the top of Michael Street at 5:45pm.

The parade will feature some of the wonderful delights of the festival including the Gerbola Christmas Circus, the cast of Waterford Panto’s ‘Jack & The Beanstalk’, the new Winterval Mini Express Train, visitors from The North Pole, some of the big man’s naughtiest elves and even Mrs Claus.

Santa will then join in the singing and dancing on the main stage before he joins the Mayor of Waterford Cllr. John O’Leary, and illuminate Winterval by turning on the Christmas lights in Waterford City.

Once the lights of Winterval are switched on the City will be transformed into a land of magical festive entertainment with the opening of the City Fairground and Winterval on Ice, the first Christmas Circus show will take place at 6:30 pm on New Street,  the first Winterval Illuminates light shows in its new location of Arundel Square from 7 pm, and the main stage at the Winterval Food & Craft Market on O’Connell Street plays in until 10 pm.  The entertainment then continues on into the wee hours across Waterford’s busy bars and restaurants right around the city.

The full programme of events is on offer until December 23rd. Highlights include the vintage Ferris wheel at Arundel Square, a vintage carousel, the Port of Waterford Eye, the Winterval Mini Express train, a virtual ride in Santa’s sleigh plus a Wizards and Dragons interactive exhibition and even Santa Paws for doggies and Waterford’s heritage takes a prime position with Déise Medieval will host a traditional Viking Settlement.   Following his opening of the festival Santa will be taking centre stage at the festival in the heart of the city on Broad Street at Santa’s Central Station where he will be meeting and greeting boys and girls for the entire festival.

In addition, there is an abundant programme of Music and Theatre. Ben Hennessy will present a new Shadow Puppetry Show at the beautiful GLOW Gardens at Winterval on Friday, Saturday and Sunday evenings. Shadow play, also known as shadow puppetry, is an ancient form of storytelling and entertainment which uses flat cut-out figures that are held between a source of light and a translucent screen.

At the Apple Market each weekend a free show sponsored by WAMA & Theatrebox, which will engage with young spectators who can take part in the collection of Santa’s posts will be on offer. Let the little elves and helpers from the WAMA (Waterford Academy of Music & Arts) and TheatreBox as they collect your special lists and drive them off to the North Pole. The post box will snow, breathe smoke, blare music & magical sound effects, and it will illuminate the mirrored ceiling of the Apple Market.

Join Winterval’s Resident Storyteller Kitty Caboodle for a selection of songs and stories. Her repertoire mixes classic fairy tales, folktales, myths, legends, songs and tunes to entertain all ages. This event will be on offer at The Book Centre, John Roberts Square, Waterford every Saturday and Sunday from the 26th of November at 2 pm, 3 pm and 4 pm. This is a Free event. Booking is not Required

The Winterval Live Stage will offer 20 Days of Live Performances during the festival. Visitors can kick back to the live musicians, bands, comedians, magicians, and performance ensembles on The Winterval Main Stage on O’Connell Street, in the heart of the Winterval Market.  Highlights include music from Deise Brass, High Hopes Choir, comedy from Totally Wired, magic and street performance from Jack Wise and many more. Each festival weekend from 12 pm to 8 pm. Admission to this event is free

House of Waterford Crystal is delighted to present its Annual Winter Music Series which will begin on Saturday 19th November and will run every Saturday & Sunday until the 18th of December.

 The full Winterval Festival programme is available to view and book online at www.winterval.ie

ENDS

By Waterford City & County Council

Waterford City’s history brought to life by digital story walking trail

A new digital story trail featuring augmented reality (AR) offers tourists an engaging way to discover Waterford’s history via their smartphone.

Waterford City and County Council (WCCC) in partnership with Imvizar, have launched a new digital walking trail featuring augmented reality (AR). This fantastic trail has been funded by Fáilte Ireland under the Destination Town’s Initiative. The Waterford Digital Story Trail explores the history, culture, and heritage of 15 different locations in the heart of the city centre, including Reginald’s Tower and Waterford Crystal.

Through the use of augmented reality smartphone technology, visitors and locals can experience Waterford’s past by watching digital animations of characters and architecture appear as if they are in the physical world right in front of them. The trail can be accessed for free by scanning one of the numerous QR codes on signs located throughout the city trail.

In addition to meeting life-like characters from Waterford’s past, scanning the QR code also provides an audio tale from an historical figure, coupled with interesting facts and a timeline of events. Spanning over a thousand years of Waterford’s history, tourists can listen as Reginald—a Viking King and warlord from the 10th century—describes his quest to launch raids all over Ireland, and watch as Thomas Francis Meagher—the Leader of the Young Irelanders in the 1848 Rebellion—raises the first Irish tri-colour.

Waterford’s history of master craft making is also recognised; Rachel Penrose—the wife of one of the founders of Waterford Crystal, William Penrose—appears in a recreation of an 18th century glass-blowing scene. Trail users can also meet Anastasia Fleming, a silversmith from the late 1700s, and see a reimagined façade of her silversmith shop.

Adele Keane, Creative Producer, Imvizar said,

“When crafting the digital story trail we wanted to focus on conserving Waterford’s heritage by giving voices to both well-known and lesser-known historical figures. By hearing their stories, and sometimes seeing them in their surroundings, we can better put ourselves in their shoes and imagine what life was like as a silversmith in the 18th century or as a young soldier in World War I.”

WCCC hopes to further promote Waterford’s culture and history to both visitors and locals with the launch of the digital trail. The new augmented reality story trail from WCCC offers a fresh perspective on storytelling that evokes emotions and allows users to walk away with a more memorable experience.

For more information visit: https://digitalstorytrail.visitwaterford.com/  (The Digital Story Trail is a mobile experience)

ENDS

Notes for Editors

This project has been funded by Waterford City and County Council and supported by Ireland’s Ancient East. The digital story trail is part of WCCC’s wider Visit Waterford tourism initiative.

By Waterford City & County Council

Winterval – updated Road Closure arrangements

Notice is hereby given that Waterford City and County Council, in exercise of its powers pursuant to Section 75 Roads Act 1993, will close the following public roads to through traffic to facilitate the Winterval 2022 Christmas Festival:

  1. From 11pm Monday 7th November 2022 until 11pm Sunday 8th January 2023 the following street will be closed for the Winterval Christmas Market:
    Arundel Square – L5532 (from its junction with Peter Street to Conduit lane).
    Please Note: The Bus Stop and Taxi Rank on Peter Street will operate as normal.
  2. From 11am Monday 14th November 2022 until 11pm Friday 30th December 2022 the following street will be closed for the Winterval Santa Installation.
    Michael Street (North) – L-1527 (from it’s junction with Lady Lane and Patrick St)
  3. On Friday 18th November 2022 from 2pm until 7pm the following streets will close for the arrival of Santa Claus and the switching on of the Christmas Lights.
    Barronstrand Street – L91092
    Broad Street – L91092
    Great Georges Street – L-90352
  4. On Friday 18th November 2022 from 3:30pm until 6pm the following streets will close for the arrival of Santa Claus and the switching on of the Christmas Lights.
    Peter Street – L-5531
    Patrick Street – L-1525 (from its junction with Mayors Walk)
    Bakehouse Lane – L5530
    Note: Between 4pm and 4:30pm Friday 18th November there may be significant delays outbound on The Quay and through traffic should divert via Ashe Road.
  5. From 10pm Sunday 13th November 2022 until 10pm Sunday 8th January 2023 the following street will be closed for the Winterval Christmas Market:
    O’Connell Street – L1502 (from its junction with Hanover Street to Sargents Lane).
    Great Georges Street – L-90352 (from its junction with John Roberts Square)
  6. On the following Times & Dates the area known as John Roberts Square, consisting of the roads listed below will be closed to facilitate the Winterval Festival.
    – 11am Saturday 19th November until 10pm Sunday 20th November
    – 11am Saturday 26th November until 10pm Sunday 27th November
    – 11am Saturday 3rd December until 10pm Sunday 4th December
    – 11am Saturday 10th December until 10pm Sunday 11th December
    – 11am Saturday 17th December until 10pm Sunday 18th December
    – 11am until 10pm each day from Monday 19th until Friday 23rd December
    Barronstrand Street – L91092
    Broad Street – L91092
  7. On Wednesday 21st December 2022 from 4pm until 11pm the following public Car Park and Roads shall close to facilitate a public outdoor Winterval Solstice Event.
    Thomas Hill (L15021) – There will be no access to Thomas Hill from Francis Street, access from O’Connell Street shall be unaffected.
    Meeting House Lane (L15022) – Residential Access only
    Jenkins Lane Car Park (L90356) – All cars must vacate by 6pm
    Little Patrick Street (L90355)
  8. Each Saturday from Saturday 19th November 2022 until Friday 16th December 2022 the area known as Applemarket will the host of the Santa’s Elves Christmas letter Collection Winterval Event and other Christmas Events. Residential and Emergency Access to Spring Garden Alley will be unaffected.
    The usual road Closures for the Applemarket will apply.
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