At Wexford Quays · Wexford Quays, Wexford, Co. Wexford
Free films on the waterfront - that is the simple, excellent idea behind Wexford’s outdoor cinema season. Wexford Town Council runs these evening screenings along the Quays throughout July and August, bringing family-friendly blockbusters and crowd-pleasing films to one of the most atmospheric stretches of waterfront in the southeast. It suits families with young children, couples looking for a low-key summer evening, and anyone who wants to enjoy a film somewhere other than a darkened room. The price - nothing - keeps the barrier to entry at zero.
Screenings take place on a large outdoor screen set up along Wexford Quays, the wide 500-metre promenade that runs along the harbour with views across to the Wexford Bridge and the colourful quayside buildings behind. The waterfront setting gives the whole thing a relaxed, open-air feel that an indoor cinema simply cannot match.
Films start at 9:00pm, which in mid-July means the sky is just beginning to darken by showtime. The programme leans toward family-friendly titles and popular blockbusters - a mix that works for groups with different tastes. Arrive early to claim a good spot, and bring a blanket or folding chair; the promenade is wide and open so there is usually room, but the best spots fill up as showtime approaches. A light layer or jacket is worth having, as evenings on the water can turn cool even in August. Refreshments are not provided on-site but cafes and pubs along the quays and in the town centre are a short walk away.
Screenings are weather dependent. Check the Wexford County Council website - wexfordcoco.ie - or local social media in the days before you plan to attend for any last-minute changes.
Wexford town is on the N25 from Waterford and Rosslare, roughly two hours south of Dublin via the M11 and N11. Train services run directly from Dublin Connolly on the Rosslare Europort line, with the journey taking around two hours; Wexford train station is within comfortable walking distance of the Quays. Bus Eireann also runs regular services from Dublin and Waterford.
Wexford Quays itself sits right on the waterfront in the town centre. The promenade has parking for around 100 vehicles in the adjacent car park, and further parking is available throughout the town centre a short walk away.
The Quays area is an easy starting point for exploring Wexford town - the medieval town walls, Selskar Abbey, and the main shopping street are all within ten minutes on foot. There is more to see in Wexford and across Co. Wexford.
Heading to Wexford Quays in Wexford? Wexford has plenty more to see. Read the Wexford area guide, find what else is on, and explore the towns and villages nearby.