Winterval Festival to Host Ireland’s Biggest Drone Show

Winterval, Ireland’s largest Christmas festival and European City of Christmas, is set to dazzle festivalgoers with the country’s biggest drone show. On Saturday, November 22nd at 7:00 PM, 150 illuminated drones will take to the night sky over the River Suir, creating a free event offering a breathtaking display of colour, movement, and festive magic.

The Winterval Sky Spectacular Drone Show promises an unforgettable visual experience as the drones perform choreographed formations that include swirling snowflakes, twinkling stars, and other festive shapes, all set to a heartwarming soundtrack that captures the spirit of the season. The event is free to attend and best viewed from the quayside in Waterford City, offering a spectacular highlight for families, visitors, and drone enthusiasts alike.

Trevor Darmody, Festival Director of Winterval, 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.”

Winterval 2025 runs from November 21st to December 23rd and offers a festive wonderland of over 50 events for families to create cherished memories together. Festivalgoers can explore the Winterval Christmas Markets, where over 100,000 twinkling lights adorn the streets and market stalls offer seasonal treats, handcrafted gifts, and live festive entertainment. The Winterval Circus features acrobats, clowns, and holiday performances that leave children wide-eyed with wonder, while Santa’s Grotto, located in the magical 12th-century caverns beneath Waterford’s Medieval Museum, provides a sensory-friendly environment for children to meet Santa and share their Christmas wishes.

The Glow Fairylight Garden offers a serene space to wander, illuminated pathways surrounded by sparkling lights, making it perfect for family photos and moments of reflection. The Winterval Fairground features classic rides and attractions, bringing joy to both young and old. For a unique perspective of Waterford’s festive lights, families can enjoy the Winterval Cruise along the River Suir.

New for 2025, Snowball Play Fun is an indoor inflatable snowball dome where families can enjoy playful snowball fights, while Gingerbread Making Workshops allow visitors to cut, bake, and decorate their own festive treats. Winterval Illuminates, located outside Santa’s Grotto in Cathedral Square, offers a free light projection show each evening, bringing the building to life with music, animation, and special effects.

From festive markets and enchanting light displays to captivating performances and immersive experiences, Winterval 2025 offers something for every member of the family. It is a celebration of holiday magic, designed to delight all ages and create unforgettable memories. For more information on events and ticket bookings, please visit www.winterval.ie