Lifestyle & Sports
04 Apr 22

Riverfest to make long awaited return to Limerick later this month

Thousands will kick off the summer in Limerick later this month at the first major national festival of the year: Riverfest.

Riverfest Limerick returns this May Bank Holiday weekend with fresh local produce, handmade crafts, vintage amusements, colourful street performers, and live musical entertainment. The festival is set to run from April 29rd to May 2nd.

The event, now in its 18th year, draws crowds from all over the country who flock to the Munster city to enjoy the great activities and spirited atmosphere.

Attractions for this year's festival include a 38-metre panoramic wheel, Friday fashion show, naval vessel tours, and Ireland's biggest BBQ cook-off.

For thrill-seekers, the massive zip-line over the River Shannon is sure to be a real treat, and those seeking a little light relief from the excitement can wander down to the Riverfest Chill Out Zone and Sensory Room- in partnership with ASD Ireland.

Festival goers can also have a chance to visit the boat that Limerick man Pat Lawless will travel solo in as he competes in the non-stop and unassisted 30,000 mile Golden Globe Yacht Race in September. Visitors can even leave a message for him on one of the sails.

The Riverfest fireworks display on May 1st always provides a fitting finale for the celebration.

#RiverfestLimerick returns on the May Bank Holiday! ☀️🚣‍♀️🍦🌭

The best weekend of the year is back, with fun for families, foodies and fun runners.

Get ready for the return of one of Ireland's most loved summer festivals: https://t.co/7zt3CCHVw2 pic.twitter.com/evYWRwsGuA

— Riverfest Limerick (@RiverfestLmk) April 4, 2022

“Limerick really comes to life when Riverfest arrives,” says Limerick Mayor Daniel Butler. “It has been a long two years waiting for an in-person Riverfest, so I’m delighted that it will be taking place. There is something for everyone across the weekend, and at the heart of it all is good fun and a great atmosphere.”

Limerick Head of Marketing & Communications, Denis Tierney, is equally excited for the festivities. “After an enforced gap of two years, we’re delighted that Riverfest is back,” he says. “Riverfest this year is jammed packed with family-friendly events to help kick start our summers. Limerick has a fantastic atmosphere over the weekend so I’m encouraging everyone to come and visit and enjoy one of the best festivals in the country.”

Check out the full list of Riverfest events here.