Waterford Spraoi International Arts Festival

Waterford Spraoi is one of Ireland's premier street arts festivals, bringing a diverse range of international performers to the medieval streets of Waterford City. The 2026 edition expands its traditional schedule to begin on Thursday, July 30, featuring a specialized dark comedy and acrobatics show at Jenkin's Lane. The main public program officially commences at John Roberts Square on Friday afternoon, offering interactive dance experiences and street theater from countries across Europe.

Key features of the festival include the Heineken Weekender on O'Connell Street, which provides three days of free live music performances from high-profile folk and traditional artists. The festival's centerpiece is the massive Sunday night parade, which in 2026 is titled 'Howl' and draws inspiration from Irish mythology with dramatic floats and costumed performers. The event reaches its climax on Sunday night with a fireworks display launched from the River Suir, attracting tens of thousands of spectators to the city center.