Waterford comes alive during the festive season. The city is full of busy shoppers, excited children singing Christmas carols and the streets are illuminated with thousands of twinkling lights and decorations. This year sees the return of the fantastic Winterval Festival, with something for absolutely everyone. Christmas accommodation fills up fast in Waterford so make sure to book your stay in Viking Hotel Waterford soon to avoid disappointment. There are far too many festive events to name so here are our pick of the best to keep you in the Christmas Spirit.
Christmas Markets
There is something very special about a Christmas Market that really puts us in a festive mood. This year the Winterval Christmas Market is back in two locations, Cathedral Square and Arundel Square. You can shop for unique gifts for yourself or a loved one, all the while supporting a local, independent business. They have everything from Christmas decorations and homemade crafts to textiles and gorgeous festive candles. If you need to refuel there are plenty of stalls serving warming winter goodies and drinks. The markets start on 23rd November and stay open until until late December.
Ice Skating
From 29th November, Bolton Street Car Park turns into our own Winter Wonderland with the return of Winterval on Ice. Wrap up well and enjoy a session on their 600sqm of real ice, with fun for all the family. There is a large main rink for the more experienced skater and a separate smaller rink with skating aids for the little ones. Step out for the first time, practise your skills or perfect your pirouette on the ice this year and warm up afterwards with a hot drink from the food stall. Book your tickets online and in advance for early bird rates from as low as €9 per person!
Panto
It’s not Christmas without a bit of ‘He’s Behind You!!’. This year, the Waterford Panto Society presents their interpretation of ‘Robin Hood and The Babes in The Wood’ in Theatre Royal this December. Pantos are a Christmas tradition we take very seriously, and are always a great evening for families, friends and couples. As always, you’ll enjoy spectacular lighting, costumes and scenery, a full live band as well as a host of dancers, singers, junior chorus and some special guest stars. Kids love the zany characters and imaginative storylines of the Panto, while parents enjoy the ‘adult’ jokes that go straight over their heads!
Visit Santa
Nothing excited the little ones quite like seeing the man in red! Santa arrives to the gorgeous 750 year old Medieval Chambers beneath City Hall on 29th November and is taking up residence until 23rd December when he has to fly back to the North Pole to get everything ready for the big day. When you enter, you’ll get to meet and hear Christmas stories from Mrs Claus and see the elves hard at work. The entry fee also includes a gorgeous photo, a handmade Christmas decoration and a surprise gift from Santa.
Waterford
If you’d like a bird’s eye of the Christmas events at Winterval this year, take a ride on our giant Big Wheel, The Waterford Eye. Located on Merchants Quay, the impressive big wheel illuminates the skyline and is a very unique experience, suitable for all ages. You can buy or bring some festive treats and blankets to feast on as you enjoy the best view in the city. Their VIP package also comes with prosecco; it’s a perfect, romantic setting to pop the question!
If travelling to Ireland and decide on doing an Irish Road trip the attractions and sites in Waterford are well worth the trip! Viking Hotel Waterford is conveniently located just off the M9 Motorway from Dublin and the N25 from Cork. Offering ample free car parking, Wi-Fi and newly renovated Bar, Restaurant & Lobby area; it is the perfect base to explore these wonderful locations from. Contact us today on 051336933 to make your reservation or log onto the website www.vikinghotelwaterford.ie for more.
