Family Fun and Unique Experiences Await at Comeraghs Wild Festival 2026

Families, culture lovers and those seeking a slower pace are being invited to discover a wealth of magical experiences at Comeraghs Wild Festival 2026, with four days of activities, heritage, creativity and entertainment taking place across Waterford from July 9th to 12th.

While the festival is renowned for its mountain adventures, headline concerts and comedy gigs, this year's programme is packed with family-friendly activities and fascinating experiences designed to delight all ages.

The festival begins on Thursday evening with a journey into the past at the Old Woollen Mill in Kilmacthomas. Renowned historian Julian Walton will explore the remarkable story of the mill, which was established in the 1850s by Louisa, Lady Waterford, to provide employment in the difficult years following the Famine. Local historian Andy Kelly will present a special exhibition of historic photographs featuring the mill, the railway, the viaduct and some of Kilmacthomas' most notable characters. Light refreshments will be served, offering visitors the perfect opportunity to step back in time and celebrate local heritage.

On Friday afternoon in Dunhill Community Hall, visitors can discover traditional fishing skills with a fascinating workshop by Brendan Simpson on how to make a traditional willow lobster pot, or creel, preserving a craft passed down through generations.

Saturday promises plenty of rural charm at Cooney's Yard with traditional sheep shearing demonstrations and sheepdog displays showcasing the age-old skills that have shaped life in the Comeraghs for generations. Animal lovers and families are expected to flock to this entertaining and educational event. The popular Wet Felt Workshop also returns to Clonea Parish Hall, with sessions for both beginners and advanced participants, offering another opportunity for festival-goers to explore their creative side.

On Saturday morning, the Greenway Joggers will host a special Memorial Walk in Crough Wood in memory of former committee member Mary Flynn. Festival-goers and members of the community are warmly invited to come together to remember Mary and celebrate her contribution to the festival and the local area.

Storytelling enthusiasts can enjoy an immersive and collaborative evening experience at Clonea Power on Saturday, where folk tales from the Comeraghs and beyond will come to life through shared stories and imagination. Also taking place over the weekend is the ever-popular Dancin' Neath the Comeraghs, a much-loved community event which continues to draw strong support and brings people together through music and dance.

Drama lovers can round off the evening with mystery and intrigue when the Gealach Gorm Theatre Group presents Cliffcastle House at St Brigid's Hall, Kilrossanty. Written and directed by James Barry, the production promises murder, secrets and plenty of twists as the heirs of Baron Cliffcastle gather to hear the reading of his will.

Creativity takes centre stage on Sunday with a special Cyanotype Workshop in Crough Wood, Kilmacthomas. Suitable for all ages, children and adults will learn how to harness the power of the sun to create beautiful prints using leaves, stones, branches and natural objects gathered from the woodland floor. Participants will create imaginative artworks inspired by fairies, faces and the magic of nature.

Young adventurers can also enjoy the Creative Children's Woodland Camp and the Enchanting Woodland Escape with Claire O'Sullivan, while adults seeking relaxation can immerse themselves in Zen in the Park, featuring yoga, pilates and wellbeing sessions designed to reconnect mind and body with nature.

Elsewhere across the weekend, visitors can enjoy the Dunhill Artisan Food and Craft Market, the Comeragh Motor Club Classic and Vintage Car Run and Display, a free performance by the Comeragh to Coast Chorus and guided adventures including the spectacular Coumshingaun Ridge Hike.

Music fans are also spoiled for choice, with Gerry Walsh and California Blue kicking off the festival at The Village Bar, Rathgormack. Reviving the electric energy of Ireland's golden ballroom era, the band brings together rock 'n' roll, classic country and beloved showband favourites in a lively performance guaranteed to have audiences asking "Are you dancin'?" Widely regarded as pioneers of the Irish showband scene, Gerry Walsh and California Blue promise an unforgettable start to the weekend. Bernard Casey also takes to the stage at The Village Bar, while Duke Special performs in the beautiful setting of Clonagam Church on Sunday afternoon with support from Moylan. The festival concludes with An Evening of Song and Story featuring the White Horse Guitar Club and The Backyard Band at Woodhouse Estate.

Festival organiser Bernadette Drohan said Comeraghs Wild Festival is all about bringing people together and celebrating the unique spirit of the region.

"Whether you're interested in history, arts and crafts, theatre, music, wellbeing, or simply making memories with family and friends, there is something for everyone at Comeraghs Wild. We want people to slow down, explore, discover and experience the magic of the Comeraghs."

Full programme details and tickets are available at www.comeraghswild.com.