Comeraghs Wild Festival, from 10 to 13 July 2025 in County Waterford, offers a varied programme that celebrates the region’s cultural heritage and natural beauty. Held against the backdrop of the Comeragh Mountains, the festival invites visitors to engage with Irish traditions through music, dance, storytelling, and outdoor activities.
This year’s theme, “Nostalgias,” aims to evoke a sense of connection to the past while embracing the present, drawing both locals and tourists to the communities of Rathgormack, Clonea Power, Kilmacthomas, Portlaw, Ballymacarbry, and Stradbally.
The festival, now in its 11th year, began in 2014 to highlight the Comeragh Mountains’ rugged beauty and cultural significance. Founded by a group of local community members, including Bernadette Drohan, who is current Director of Events, the festival has grown from a small gathering to a key regional event. Initially focused on local history and outdoor pursuits, it has expanded to include a wider range of cultural activities, supported by Waterford City and County Council.
- The festival opens on Thursday, 10 July, with a performance of Indigestion, a one-man play by Seamus O’Rourke, at St Brigid’s Hall in Kilrossanty. The evening also features a talk by Tom Hunt at Portlaw Heritage Centre, exploring 200 years of the Portlaw Cotton Mill, alongside storytelling by Terri Ryan at Micilin’s Bar.
- On Friday, 11 July, families can join a Creative Children’s Summer Camp in Crough Wood, where children will participate in crafts and forest activities themed around “Kings and Queens of the Trees.” That evening, a highlight event at Cooney’s Yard near Mahon Falls will see the Dolan family perform Remembering Joe, a tribute concert marking 18 years since the passing of singer Joe Dolan, supported by Waterford’s comedy group, The Wackateers.
- Saturday, 12 July, begins with a guided hike to the Cruachán summit led by Muddyboots Guides, offering panoramic views of Dungarvan Bay and the Knockmealdowns. Yoga sessions at Kilmacthomas Viaduct’s Signal Box, followed by coffee and smoothie bowls, cater to those seeking relaxation. The day includes a felt-making workshop, a “Barry Lyndon Experience” walk tracing locations from the 1975 film, and the Nire Valley Drop, a mountain biking event in Ballymacarbry. Families can enjoy a scenic ride on the Waterford Suir Valley Railway, meeting characters Honey and Barry Bear, while the evening concludes with Dance Neath the Comeraghs set dancing and live music from Neily O’Connor in Rathgormack. The Rambling House Session, hosted by Joe Power in Dungarvan, provides an open traditional music session.
- On Sunday, 13 July, a challenging hike around the Coumshingaun Ridge showcases Europe’s notable corrie lake. Wellness activities include a day-long retreat in Crough Wood with forest therapy, yoga, and foraging, alongside workshops in Clonea Power’s Scéal Nua gardens. Families can attend Horgan’s Magnificent Magic Show at the Waterford Suir Valley Rail Station, while film enthusiasts can enjoy a screening of Barry Lyndon in Rathgormack, introduced by critic John Maguire.
The festival closes with a concert by Gina and The Champions at Dungarvan’s Town Hall Theatre, part of their Live in ’25 tour, paying tribute to Waterford-born musician Dale Haze.
Seanie Power, Cathaoirleach of Comeragh Municipal District, launched the 2025 programme, describing it as a celebration of “who we are, where we’ve come from, and the stories that shape us.” Under Drohan’s direction, the festival has maintained its community ethos, with events like the Mahon Falls concert becoming a signature draw, attracting nearly 1,500 attendees in previous years.
The festival’s history reflects its commitment to preserving Waterford’s heritage while adapting to modern interests. Past programmes have included unique events like sheep shearing demonstrations and feasts featuring local produce, such as Comeragh lamb. Its 10th anniversary in 2024 saw an expanded schedule over two weekends, with performances by The High Kings and Lisa Hannigan, indicating its growing ambition.
For 2025, the festival continues to balance tradition with new additions, such as the Barry Lyndon screening and wellness retreats, ensuring it remains a distinctive fixture in Ireland’s festival calendar.
Visitors can expect a community-focused experience that blends cultural immersion with outdoor exploration. The festival’s trails, guided by experts sharing local folklore and biodiversity, cater to hikers of varying abilities. Music and dance events, rooted in Irish traditions, encourage participation, while family-friendly activities like surfing lessons at Bunmahon and craft workshops ensure broad appeal. Many events are free, with tickets starting at €5, and early bird tickets for the Joe Dolan tribute are available for €25. Full details and bookings are accessible at comeraghswild.com.
