Imagine Arts Festival
Waterford transforms into a hub of creativity during the Imagine Arts Festival. This October, immerse yourself in a diverse program of theatre, music, dance, literature, and visual arts. Highlights include Festival Artists-in-Residence Ksenia Parkhatskaya & Dave Duffy, commissioned composer Phil Christie, and local talent Keith Dunphy. Experience the city come alive with performances and artistic expression.
What to Expect
Multidisciplinary arts festival in Waterford City
Event Details
Duration
6 days
Ages
All ages
Timed Entry
No
Featured Performers
- Ksenia Parkhatskaya
- Dave Duffy
- Phil Christie (The Bonk)
- Keith Dunphy
- Camille O’Sullivan
- Leon Redbone
- The Delines
- Kitt Philippa
- Ron Sexsmith
- Mercury Rev
- Waterson Carthy Band
- Tim Eriksen
- Holly Cooke
- Penguin Cafe
- Martin Stephenson
- Yorkston Thorne and Khan
- Bill Ryder Jones
- The Unthanks
- Billy Bragg
- The Wedding Present
- John Etheridge
- Chris Wood
- O Emperor
- Andy Irvine
- Wallis Bird
- Martin Simpson
- Peggy Seeger
- Niall McCabe
- Brigid Mae Power
- Leon Bishop
- Rónán Ó Snodaigh
- Myles O’Reilly
- Sophie Hutchinson
- John O’Conor
- Finghin Collins
- Eric Sweeney
- Bridget Knowles
- RTE Vanbugh Quartet
- Irish Chamber Orchestra
- Black Dyke Brass Band
- Dublin City Jazz Orchestra
- RTE Concert Orchestra
- Irish National Opera
- Willy Vlautin
- Roger McGough
- Linton Kwesi Johnson
- John Cooper Clarke
- Rita Ann Higgins
- Joseph O’Connor
- Peter Sheridan
- Grace Wells
- Mark Roper
- Thomas McCarthy
- Kevin Barry
- John Banville
- John McKenna
- REIC
- Cirkus Inferno
- Aesops fabulous foibles and fables
- Pignut theatre
- Pandemonium Theatre
- Niall de Burca
- Eddie Lenihan
- Melissa Baker
- Tom Kaufman
- Roger McGough
- Little Red Kettle Children’s Theatre company
- Humans: A Robot Musical
- Blue Raincoat
- Theatre Royal Productions
- Curlew Theatre Company
- Derek Flynn
- Nicola Spendlove
- Donal O’Kelly
- Mannix Flynn
- John Nee
- Katie O’Kelly
- Declan O’Gorman
- Jim Nolan
- Pat Daly
- Noel Kelly
- John Dwyer
- Castle Ceili Band
- Ann Mulqueen
- David Power
- Liz and Yvonne Kane
- Nell ní Chrónín
- Dervish
- Danu
- Buillle
- Mairead and Triona Ni Domhnaill
- Mairtin O’Connor
- Michael McGoldrick
- Liam O’Flynn
- Paddy Glacken
- Noirin Ni Riain
- T with the Maggies
- Noel Hill
- Frankie Gavin
- The Kane Sisters
- Mick and Aoife O’Brien
- Noriana Kennedy
- Mirella Murray
- Oisín MacDiarmada
- Donogh Hennessy
- Cois Ceim
- Dance Theatre of Ireland
- Ciotog
- Genesis Collective
- Ernest Ruckle
- Pat Murphy
- Hughie O’Donoghue
- Robert Ballagh
- Tony Ryan
- Anthony Pilbro
- Janet Pierce
- Amanda Coogan
- Rosemary Higbee
- Patrick Morrisson
- Nigel Rolfe
- Pat O’ Brien
- Joe McNicholas
- Gillian O’ Shea
- John R. Foley
- Lillian O’ Sullivan
- Rich Hall
- Kevin McAleer
- David O’Doherty
- Jason Byrne
- Abie Philbin Bowman
- John Cooper Clarke
- Kevin Bridges
- David McSavage
Organizer
Imagine Arts Festival
Local Insight & Ratings
Scare Factor
Family Friendly
Best For
Art enthusiasts, families, and culture seekers
Vibe
Creative, vibrant, community-focused
Energy Level
Moderate
Photo Friendly
High
Weather Sensitivity
Moderate
Location
Know Before You Go
- Pets: No pets allowed
Tips & Advice
- Book tickets in advance for popular performances, especially those featuring headline artists, as they tend to sell out quickly.
- Check the full festival schedule online to plan your days, as events span multiple venues across Waterford City.
- Arrive early for street spectacles and performances to secure a good viewing spot and soak in the atmosphere.
- Consider attending a workshop led by the Festival Artists-in-Residence for an immersive creative experience.
- Explore the historic streets of Waterford between events to discover local art installations and enjoy the city's charm.
Special Events & Promotions
- Festival Artists-in-Residence workshops and showcase
- Commissioned composer premiere
- Return of acclaimed one-man play
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of art forms are featured at the festival?
The festival is multidisciplinary, showcasing theatre, music, dance, literature, visual art, and street spectacle.
Are there events suitable for families?
Yes, the festival typically includes children's events and activities suitable for all ages.
Where do the festival events take place?
Events are held across various venues throughout Waterford City, transforming its streets and spaces.
How can I find the most up-to-date schedule?
The most current festival program and schedule can be found on their official website.
Is it possible to get involved as a volunteer?
Yes, the festival often seeks volunteers; information on how to apply can usually be found on their website.
More Halloween Events Near Waterford
Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly.