Take a walk on the wild side in Waterford with the family this summer

Waterford's Comeraghs Wild Festival returns this summer after a two-year hiatus due to COVID.

The long-awaited festival will be held from July 7 to 10.

Organizers promise that this year's action-packed program will be bigger and better than ever, with loads of fabulous, family-focused events and plenty to see and do for lovers of the great outdoors.

This year’s event has a strong nature, wildlife and eco theme, and there are educational and fun events for all to enjoy in the Comeragh Mountains region over the four days.

Renowned TV and radio broadcaster, author and biologist, Eanna Ni Lamhna, will join local man Stephen McCarthy of StepsBackThruTime walking tours for an eco walk close to part of the Waterford Greenway in Kilmacthomas on the Saturday.

“Years ago - when I was young - people were not so aware of the importance of the environment. The value of trees for biodiversity and the importance of insects as pollinators was not widely appreciated," she said.

"Today, however, people really want to be part of nature. In the height of COVID we had to keep within 5 kilometers. People got more interested in what they saw and did and became more in tune with nature.

“Today that continues. People are using pesticides less. They are letting parts of their gardens go wild for the butterflies, birds and the bees. They’re growing wildflower meadows and planting trees. Our walk and talk will help foster this interest and give the whole family a greater appreciation of the world around us.

“I’m delighted to see so many eco events on the festival program. It’s a fabulous, authentic festival that celebrates the natural beauty of the region and I’m looking forward to joining in the fun and going a bit Wild myself."

Festival spokesperson Mary Flynn said it's great to be back.

“We’re thrilled to confirm that Comeraghs Wild is back from July 7 to 10. We’ve new venues, new events, new attractions and many of our  most popular crowd-pullers are back. This is a fabulous and varied terrain with fantastic natural amenities and it’s only fitting that this year’s festival has a very strong green theme and focuses on appreciating and protecting our wildlife and our countryside.

“Our flagship concert in the mountains features legendary blues, jazz and soul singer, Mary Coughlan, and her live band. This concert has been moved to Crotty’s Lake which is equally idyllic but has better parking, toilet and catering facilities, making the venue far more accessible for all. We’re delighted to confirm that The Backyard Band will be entertaining from 8pm.

“We’ve a full Nire Valley Drop this year, a Hog Roast and live music at Nire/Fourmilewater GAA Club and Eanna Ni Lamhna will be joining Stephen McCarthy for an eco walk and talk from Kilmacthomas Railway  Station. Internationally-renowned Irish wildlife cameraman, filmmaker and television presenter, Colin Stafford-Johnson is also joining us for a talk in Portlaw.

“Also new to this year’s program are music, singing, dancing and storytelling at The Nook, Gateway Eco Camping Park and a Comeragh Mountain Lamb Feast at Cooney’s Yard. Eddie Lenihan  is back by popular demand at Nell’s, there’s morning yoga and events for children at Crough Wood, surfing at Bonmahon, a Craughan Loop Guided Walk by Muddyboots and outdoor theatre at Curraghmore House & Gardens.”

For more information, visit ComeraghsWild.com.