- Waterford Outdoor Recreation Plan Launch: This first-ever comprehensive plan, developed in collaboration with stakeholders including Waterford City and County Council, Waterford Sports Partnership, and Fáilte Ireland, will launch in 2026, guiding sustainable enhancements to trails, greenways, water activities, and outdoor amenities across the county to improve accessibility and regenerative visitor experiences in natural settings.
- City of Lights Project – Imbolc Phase: Building on previous illuminations, this Fáilte Ireland-supported initiative will feature new artistic light installations and projections in 2026 themed around Imbolc (the ancient Celtic festival marking the beginning of spring), animating historic buildings and extending evening visitor engagement in Waterford City.
- Waterford Destination and Experience Development Plan (DEDP) Progress: This five-year Fáilte Ireland strategy, launched in 2025, will advance priority projects in 2026 including planning for a major “attraction of scale” in Waterford City, an orientation initiative linking urban and rural experiences, and strengthened tourism networks to boost year-round appeal and visitor dispersion.
- North Quays Sustainable Transport Bridge and Plaza Opening: Expected completion in early 2026 for the plaza and full bridge access potentially later, this infrastructure will connect the redeveloping North Quays area, facilitating easier pedestrian and cycle access to emerging mixed-use developments and enhancing urban exploration.
- North Quays Residential and Mixed-Use Developments: Apartment construction and private developments on the North Quays Strategic Development Zone are anticipated to commence in the first half of 2026, contributing to revitalised public spaces, retail, and hospitality options that enrich city-centre visitor stays.
- Waterford Festival of Food: Returning 24–26 April 2026 in Dungarvan, this celebration of local produce features markets, chef demonstrations, tastings, and family events, highlighting Waterford’s culinary heritage and attracting food enthusiasts.
- All Together Now Festival: Scheduled for 30 July–2 August 2026 at Curraghmore Estate, this award-winning independent music, arts, wellness, and food festival offers diverse performances and immersive experiences in a historic estate setting.
- Spraoi International Street Arts Festival: Typically held over the August bank holiday weekend (with new shows in development for 2026), this vibrant event features international street performances, parades, and family-friendly spectacles animating Waterford City’s streets.
- Winterval Christmas Festival: Returning in late 2026 as Ireland’s largest Christmas festival, it will include markets, illuminations, ice skating, and festive attractions, providing magical seasonal experiences in Waterford City.
- Council-Supported Festivals and Events Programme: Enhanced funding through Waterford City and County Council’s 2026 Festivals & Events Grants Scheme will support a diverse calendar of new and returning cultural, musical, and community events, promoting sustainability and boosting visitor numbers across the county.
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