Wexford Festival Opera

Wexford Festival Opera’s commitment to the highest artistic standards has seen it emerge as one of the world’s leading opera festivals, with an international reputation for excellence.

Wexford Festival Opera

When Compton Mackenzie, the renowned novelist and founder of Gramophone magazine, suggested to Tom Walsh that he stage an opera in Wexford, few could have imagined where the idea would lead. But since the first ‘Festival of Music and the Arts’ took place in October 1951, Wexford Festival Opera has grown into one of the world’s leading opera festivals. In 2017 Wexford Festival Opera won Best Festival at the International Opera Awards.

The Festival made a name for itself by introducing audiences to unjustly neglected works, many of which have since found a place in the canon. For nearly 70 years the Festival has breathed new life into forgotten masterpieces, establishing a reputation for high-quality productions that, every year, bring thousands of opera-lovers flocking to Wexford from all over the world.

The Festival’s success is due in no small part to Wexford itself and the hundreds of local, dedicated volunteer force who complete the Wexford experience. This ancient Viking town, nestled in a wonderful setting on the banks of the River Slaney, has a character and charm all its own. Just two hours from Dublin, in a county renowned for its stunning beaches and rebellious history, the town is a key part of what helps to make the Festival unique. Every year at Festival time the streets, pubs and restaurants are abuzz with excitement, and the warm welcome waiting from an army of Festival volunteers keeps opera-lovers coming back year after year.

Wexford Festival Opera 2023

For 2023, the program of events are Zoraida di Granata the 24th, 27th, 31st October and 3rd November. L’Aube rouge the 25th, 29th October and 1st, 4th November. La Ciociara the 26th, 28th October and 2nd, 5th November.

View the Wexford Festival Opera website HERE

Why Stay With Us?

Crown Quarter is located on the vibrant, energetic Monck Street in the heart of Wexford town, giving you access to Wexford’s nightlife, shopping and restaurants. Wexford’s first smart, modern and stylish boutique hotel. Crown Quarter is ideal for a quick and easy access night away when attending Wexford Festival Opera. You will be spoilt for choice with a selection of 5 of Wexford’s liveliest bars including our very own Crown Bar, as well as a range of dining options with three restaurants including the award-winning Spice Indian Restaurant all under Crown Quarter.