AI image – Event may differ
Imagine Arts Festival
Waterford, WD
Multidisciplinary arts festival celebrating creativity and imagination.
About
Prepare to be captivated by the Imagine Arts Festival, returning to Waterford City for its 24th edition. From October 21st to 26th, 2025, this multidisciplinary celebration ignites the city with a vibrant showcase of music, performance, visual arts, and heritage. With a theme of 'Create,' the festival invites artists and audiences to connect and explore, featuring a diverse lineup that has previously included luminaries like Camille O’Sullivan and a wide array of theatrical and literary talents.
Our Take
Family Friendly
Best For
Art enthusiasts, culture seekers, families
Vibe
Creative, inspiring, community-focused
Energy Level
Moderate
Budget
Mid-Range
Photo Friendly
High
Weather Sensitivity
Low
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.
Location
Event Details
Duration
6 days
Schedule
October 21st - 26th, 2025
Featured Performers
- Keith Dunphy
- Camille O’Sullivan
- Pat O' Brien
- Gillian O’ Shea
- 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
- Parade of Light
- Little Red Kettle Children’s Theatre company
- Humans: A Robot Musical
- Blue Raincoat
- Theatre Royal Productions
- Curlew Theatre Company
- Nicola Spendlove
- Derek Flynn
- Donal O’Kelly
- Mannix Flynn
- John Nee
- Katie O’Kelly
- Declan O’Gorman
- Subhashini Goda
- 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
- Joe McNicholas
- John R. Foley
- Lillian O’ Sullivan
- Rich Hall
- Kevin McAleer
- David O’Doherty
- Jason Byrne
- Abie Philbin Bowman
- Kevin Bridges
- David McSavage
Organizer
Imagine Arts Festival
Practical Information
Pet Policy
No pets allowed (service animals welcome)
Quick Actions
Tips & Advice
- Book tickets in advance for popular performances, especially for Keith Dunphy's 'Word Against the Word,' as seating at Garter Lane may be limited.
- Explore the full festival program once released to discover a wide range of events beyond the announced headliners, including visual arts, literature, and children's activities.
- Consider arriving early for performances at Garter Lane to soak in the atmosphere and find your preferred seating.
- Check the festival's social media channels for last-minute announcements or schedule changes.
- Take advantage of the festival's focus on local artists and heritage by exploring Waterford City between events.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the theme of the Imagine Arts Festival 2025?
The theme for the 2025 Imagine Arts Festival is 'Create'.
Where can I find the full festival program?
The full festival program will be unveiled soon on the official Imagine Arts Festival website.
What types of art forms are featured at the festival?
The festival is multidisciplinary, featuring a wide range of art forms including music, performance, visual arts, heritage, theatre, comedy, dance, literature, and film.
Is the festival suitable for families?
Yes, the festival typically includes children's events, making it suitable for families.
How can I support the festival?
Information on supporting the festival, including volunteering and donations, can be found on their website.