What's On
What’s On In and Near Ardmore
Discover the events and festivals happening near Cliff House Hotel, uniquely positioned on the boarder between Waterford and Cork, you're never far from festivities during your stay at The Cliff House Hotel.
Ardmore and the surrounding Waterford and Cork coastline host festivals, food events, arts celebrations and seasonal experiences throughout the year from summer street festivals to winter wellness escapes.
Guinness cork jazz festival
Each October Bank Holiday, Cork City will comes alive with the unmistakable energy of the Guinness Cork Jazz Festival. Over four music-filled days, the city’s streets, pubs, and venues will resonate with world-class performances, from intimate gigs to show-stopping concerts by international jazz stars. Whether you’re a lifelong jazz enthusiast or simply in the mood for an unforgettable weekend of rhythm, culture, and atmosphere, this iconic festival promises to strike all the right notes.
Waterford Imagine Arts Festival
Each October Waterford comes alive once more as the Imagine Arts Festival returns, transforming the city into a vibrant hub of creativity and culture running. This year’s programme is set to delight with an exciting mix of music, performance, visual arts, and heritage events—perfect for both seasoned festival-goers and those discovering it for the first time.
Plan your seaside escape now!
As the seasons shift and the coastline takes on its own ever-changing beauty, there’s no better backdrop for your next escape than the Cliff House Hotel. After days spent exploring the region’s lively festivals, cultural celebrations, and natural wonders, return to the warmth of our cliffside retreat where ocean views combine with impeccable comfort, and every detail is thoughtfully prepared. For quiet moments of indulgence or memorable adventures along Ireland’s southern shores, your perfect getaway awaits.
Seasonal Offers & Experiences
Spring Festivals
Waterford Festival of Food
Each April, Dungarvan hosts the acclaimed Waterford Festival of Food, one of Ireland's premier celebrations of food, drink and local producers. Featuring artisan markets, chef-led dining experiences, tastings, food trails and family-friendly events, the festival showcases the rich culinary heritage of Waterford and the South East. Located approximately 25 minutes from Cliff House Hotel, it offers the perfect opportunity to discover the region's exceptional food culture while enjoying a luxury coastal stay in Ardmore.
Summer Festivals
Blackwater Valley Opera Festival
Each late May and early June, the internationally acclaimed Blackwater Valley Opera Festival brings world-class opera, classical music and cultural events to the beautiful heritage towns and venues of Waterford and East Cork. With spectacular performances staged at nearby Lismore Castle alongside recitals, open-air concerts and fine dining experiences throughout the Blackwater Valley, the festival offers a truly memorable cultural experience during your stay at Cliff House Hotel.
In addition to Cliff House Hotel, Cliff River Lodge, a luxury self-catering residence is located approximately 30 minutes from Lismore Castle. Cliff River Lodge provides an ideal base for guests attending the acclaimed Blackwater Valley Opera Festival, allowing visitors to combine world-class opera and classical music with a luxury riverside retreat in the heart of Waterford.
Midleton Arts Festival
Held annually each May, the Midleton Arts Festival celebrates creativity through a diverse programme of music, theatre, visual arts, literature, workshops and family-friendly events. Taking place throughout the vibrant East Cork town of Midleton, the festival showcases both emerging and established artists while creating a lively cultural atmosphere for visitors of all ages. Located approximately 45 minutes from Cliff House Hotel, it makes an enjoyable day trip for guests seeking arts, culture and local experiences during their stay in Ardmore. While visiting Midleton is also recommend the Midleton Distillery Experience where world-famous Jameson Irish Whiskey is made.
Comeraghs Wild Festival
Celebrate the great outdoors at the annual Comeraghs Wild Festival, a vibrant showcase of adventure, nature and local culture set against the spectacular backdrop of the Comeragh Mountains. The festival features guided hikes, mountain biking, kayaking, trail running, wellness experiences, wildlife walks and family-friendly outdoor activities, offering visitors the opportunity to explore one of Ireland's most beautiful and unspoilt landscapes. Located approximately 45 minutes from Cliff House Hotel, it makes an ideal day trip for guests looking to experience the natural beauty and outdoor adventures of County Waterford during their stay.
Autumn Festivals
Spraoi International Street Arts Festival
Waterford, Ireland’s oldest city, will come alive over the August Bank Holiday Weekend with the vibrant energy of the Spraoi International Street Arts Festival. Over three days, locals and visitors alike will mingle as the city’s streets and squares are transformed into dynamic stages for an eclectic mix of world-class performers. All events are free, with daily programmes kicking off at lunchtime and continuing late into the night.
Spraoi is a celebration of spectacle, contemporary circus, music, dance, comedy, and delightful chaos, offering something for everyone. With attractions suited to all ages, it’s a truly inclusive, cross-generational experience. The festival culminates in a dazzling parade of hundreds of costumed performers winding through Waterford’s historic streets, capped off with a breath taking fireworks display over the River Suir.
Cork on a Fork Fest
Experience the best of Cork’s vibrant food scene as Cork on a Fork Fest returns in August for five days of incredible local flavours and festival fun!
Celebrate Cork’s unique culinary culture with a programme packed full of exciting events, including unique dining experiences, immersive food events, expert talks, interactive workshops, live cooking demonstrations and a full children’s programme.
Whether you’re a food lover or just looking for a great day out, Cork on a Fork Fest is one to savour!
Waterford's Harvest Festival
Waterford’s Harvest Festival returns this September. Ireland’s oldest city will come alive with family-friendly fun, live music, and delicious local food. Stroll through the bustling Harvest Market, enjoy cooking demonstrations, and soak up the festive atmosphere in the streets and squares of Waterford, all in celebration of the region’s rich culinary heritage. The perfect activity for families.
Winter Festivals
Ballymaloe Craft Fair
Held over two weekends each November at the Ballymaloe Grainstore in East Cork, the Ballymaloe Craft Fair is one of Ireland's most popular seasonal shopping events, bringing together hundreds of Irish designers, makers and artisan food producers. Visitors can browse beautifully crafted gifts, fashion, homewares, jewellery and festive treats while enjoying the warm atmosphere of this much-loved Christmas fair. Located approximately one hour from Cliff House Hotel, it makes an ideal festive day trip during an autumn or winter stay in Ardmore.
