Everything you might want to know.
Common questions about tickets, getting there, accessibility, food, family and weather. Can't find an answer? Get in touch.
tickets
Do I need tickets?
The Sunday market and plenty of outdoor happenings are free. Dining events, tastings, demonstrations and workshops are individually ticketed and often sell out — book early once tickets go on sale.
When do tickets go on sale?
For 2026, tickets went on sale on 20 March with a second release on 24 March. Ticket news is announced on this site and through the festival newsletter.
An event I wanted is sold out — any advice?
Popular dinners and demos go quickly. Keep an eye on the news page and newsletter for returned tickets or added events, and try the free programme — there's lots of it.
What about accessibility?
The festival takes place across real venues, so access varies — each venue page carries notes, and the accessibility page explains how to arrange anything in advance. Email us and we'll check details directly with a venue.
How do I trade at the market or get involved?
We'd love to hear from producers, makers and volunteers. Use the contact page or email info@waterfordfestivaloffood.com and the team will come back to you.
travel
How do I get to Dungarvan?
Dungarvan sits on the N25 roughly midway between Waterford city and Cork, about 45–50 minutes from each. Bus Éireann coaches on the Waterford–Cork corridor stop in the town. If you're feeling energetic, the Waterford Greenway cycling trail ends right in Dungarvan.
Where do I park?
The town centre is compact — most visitors park once and walk between venues. Expect the town to be busy on market Sunday; arriving earlier makes everything easier.
general
When and where does the festival happen?
The 2026 festival ran Friday 24 to Sunday 26 April in Dungarvan, Co. Waterford, with events across West Waterford. Dates for the next edition are announced on this site and in the newsletter first.
What is the Sunday Festival Market?
The festival's flagship day — Grattan Square fills with food and craft stalls, street entertainment and music from roughly 10:00 to 17:00 on the Sunday. Entry is free.
Is the festival family friendly?
Very. The Sunday market is a full family day out, and family-friendly events are flagged on the programme. A small number of evening events are adults-only and say so clearly.
What happens if it rains?
The market and outdoor events run rain or shine — this is Ireland in April, so bring a layer. Indoor events are unaffected.
I have a dietary requirement — will I be catered for?
Market traders label their produce and are happy to talk through ingredients. For ticketed dining events, mention dietary requirements when you book and the venue will do the rest.
Where should I stay?
Dungarvan has hotels, guesthouses and self-catering within walking distance of the town-centre venues, with more at Clonea Strand and across West Waterford. Festival weekend books out early.
How do I contact the festival?
Email info@waterfordfestivaloffood.com — for access requests there's a dedicated form on the accessibility page.