Traditional sheep shearing demonstrations are among the rural heritage features included in the Comeraghs Wild Festival 2026 programme. The festival takes place from 9 to 12 July 2026 across the Comeragh Mountains, the Copper Coast and surrounding villages.
Waterford City & County Council has highlighted the 30th anniversary of the Comeragh Crossing, which takes place on Saturday, 11 July 2026. Route options listed for the anniversary event include the 45km Comeragh Challenge, 35km Comeragh Crossing, 20km Nire Valley Walk and 12km Kilbrien Walk.
The wider Comeraghs Wild programme includes mountain walks, folklore and seanchaí gatherings, heritage exhibitions, family activities and community events. The sheep shearing demonstrations give the festival a clear rural and farming heritage connection, reflecting the long relationship between sheep farming, upland landscapes and local communities in the Comeraghs.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Festival | Comeraghs Wild Festival 2026 |
| Dates | 9–12 July 2026 |
| Main local focus | Comeragh Mountains, Copper Coast and surrounding villages |
| Rural heritage element | Traditional sheep shearing demonstrations |
| Comeragh Crossing anniversary | Saturday, 11 July 2026 |
Local relevance
For Kilmacthomas and nearby communities, the festival is a local opportunity to celebrate the Comeragh landscape and the farming traditions connected with it. Sheep farming and upland management remain part of the identity of the area, and public demonstrations can help visitors and younger generations understand the work and skills behind rural life.
Anyone planning to attend a particular event should check the official festival information for times, locations, registration details and any route requirements.
Source and further information
Further details are available from Waterford City & County Council: 30th Anniversary of the Comeragh Crossing.