Waterford presented with the European city of Christmas 2024 award

A serious flex - bualadh bos Waterford

Huge news for Waterford, as they have been awarded the title of European City of Christmas 2024. According to Waterford Council News, the International Jury of the European Capital and City of Christmas 2024 competition unanimously voted for this Munster county. Waterford taking home this award is largely attributed to their annual Winterval festival, which drives locals and tourists alike to the Crystal County.

 

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It is Ireland's largest Christmas festival, and has been operating since 2012. This year's Winterval hosted 100 stalls, set out in a series of wooden cabins fulfilling your traditional festive fantasies with stalls from local, regional and national producers. Mayor of Waterford City and County, Cllr Joe Conway said this of the win: "When it comes to Christmas celebrations, Waterford City and County Council has a track record to be proud of.  Since its inception in 2012, Winterval has grown to become Ireland’s favourite Christmas Festival, with an abundance of Christmas magic, festive family favourites and seasonal surprises. "Its success stems from several factors which include local authority funding and commitment, strong stakeholder engagement and a festival team that has a flair for bringing the most festive, wonder-filled and engaging events to the streets of Waterford. "Being recognised and awarded such a prestigious title as the European City of Christmas is a wonderful testament to Waterford of Christmases past and how Waterford is best in class when it comes to embracing the magic of Christmas." So if you have some days off around Christmas, or are already planning your festive trips next year, make sure Waterford is high up your list. Header images via Getty & Instagram / Winterval  READ ON:  - Fairytale of New York reissued on vinyl to raise money for the Simon Community - Readers outraged as Condé Nast includes Irish location on list of top UK road-trips - The 10 top cafés for a hot chocolate around Ireland