Waterford City and County Council has officially unveiled a five-day programme for the
St. Patrick’s Festival Waterford 2026, running from Friday, March 13th to Tuesday, March 17th. This year’s theme, “Waterford; Where St. Patrick’s Day Began,” pays tribute to 16th-century scholar Luke Wadding, who first placed the date on the liturgical calendar.
- St. Patrick’s Day Parade: The parade begins at 1:00 PM on Tuesday, March 17th, led by Grand Marshal Dr. Morgan McMonagle.
- Live Music Trail: Performances will take place across multiple stages, including the Apple Market, O’Connell Street, and the Waterford Cultural Quarter.
- Evening Acts: Featured performers include Pat Cooney, Derek Flynn, Liam Merriman & Bill Stewart, Kings of the Wild, Divorce Party, Knockadollys, Monticelli, Spancill Jills, and Damn Dirty Apes.
- Special Shows: A high-octane “Blowtorch Boogie” performance combining traditional music with fire theatrics.
- Family Fun: The City Centre Fairground returns, alongside the Wobbly Circus, “Playful Streets” activities, and “Little Irish Folklore Friends”.
- Culture & Workshops: Highlights include copper wire jewellery making at
- Southeast Craft Studios, the Booley House variety show, and the Soldiers, Saints and Scholars walking tour.
- Theatre: Comedy from Serena Terry’s Therapy tour and country music from Cliona Hagan at the Theatre Royal.
Prrogamme:
- Fri, March 13: Opening celebrations and evening performances starting around 6:30 PM.
- Sat, March 14: Family fun, street entertainment, and music citywide.
- Sun, March 15: Cultural showcases, workshops, and performances.
- Mon, March 16: Community events and “Green Monday” highlights.
- Tue, March 17: The Grand Parade and finale celebrations with live entertainment.
For real-time updates and full event listings, visit the official St. Patrick’s Festival Waterford website
