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Winterval drone show to light up Waterford city sky

The 'Winterval Sky Spectacular Drone Show' takes place at 7pm and is best viewed from the quayside in Waterford City
The 'Winterval Sky Spectacular Drone Show' takes place at 7pm and is best viewed from the quayside in Waterford City

Ireland's largest drone show is set to light up the night sky at the Winterval festival in Waterford city this evening.

The festival opened on Friday and will run every Thursday to Sunday until 23 December.

The drone show, which starts at 7pm, was due to be held at the quayside last night but was postponed due to adverse weather.

It will include 150 drones performing choreographed formations, including snowflakes, stars, and other festive shapes, just above the River Suir.

A festive drone show
Formations will include snowflakes, stars, and other festive shapes

Director of Winterval Trevor Darmody said: "Bringing Ireland's biggest drone show to Waterford is an exciting milestone for Winterval.

"The display over the River Suir combines cutting-edge technology with festive storytelling, and it’s a spectacular way for families and visitors to come together and experience something truly unique at the start of the festival," he added.

There are over 50 attractions and events as part of Winterval 2025, as the festival enters its 13th year.

They include the Port of Waterford Eye, Santa’s Grotto in 12th-century underground caverns beneath the Medieval Museum and Winterval Cruises on the River Suir.

A crowd watches an illumination performance on the front of a building
Winterval Illuminates will run nightly in Cathedral Square

Winterval Illuminates will run each night in Cathedral Square and will light up the outside of the Irish Silver Museum.

"We are hugely excited to welcome everyone back for the 13th annual Winterval Festival, a truly magical celebration that brings the spirit of Christmas to life across Waterford," Mr Darmody said.

"This year’s festival promises to be our biggest and brightest yet, with an incredible lineup of events, live music, and festive experiences for families and visitors of all ages."

Other key events include a Blue Light Parade, where emergency services will roll through the city with sirens and lights on display. The parade will take place on Saturday, 29 November.

On 11 December, Waterford will host the Jingle Bells Cycle, a family-friendly 2km cycle which will start on Hanover Street.