Riverfest Limerick, the flagship May Bank Holiday festival, has won Best Event and Best Green Event at the Event Industry Awards (EIAs), recognising excellence in live event delivery and leadership in sustainability.
The EIAs are Ireland’s leading awards for the live events sector, celebrating innovation, best practice, and outstanding achievement and Riverfest’s double win places it among the country’s most successful festivals. Produced by Grooveyard in partnership with Limerick City & County Council, Riverfest welcomed over 140,000 attendees in 2025, a 5% increase year on year, transforming Limerick city into a vibrant, walkable festival across Arthur’s Quay, Howley’s Quay, and King John’s Castle.
In 2025, the festival delivered major sustainability improvements, including an 88% reduction in fuel-related carbon emissions over two years through the switch to HVO fuel, generator right-sizing and power-down schedules, a 14% reduction in waste volumes, and a 51% reduction in waste-related CO₂ emissions.
Sean Lenihan, Director of Service, Brendan Troy, Head of Economic and Tourism Development and Festival & Events team members gathered to mark the win during a special acrobatic presentation by Fidget Feet on the banks of the River Shannon, with King John’s Castle as a striking backdrop, reflecting the festival’s strong connection to place, heritage, and the river at its core.
Brendan Troy, Head of Economic and Tourism Development, Limerick City and County Council said:
“We’re absolutely delighted that Grooveyard has been recognised with the 2026 Event Impact Award for Best Green Event for Riverfest. This award is a testament not only to our team’s commitment to sustainable event delivery, but also to the incredible collaboration with our partners across Limerick who help bring Riverfest to life every year. Creating an event that celebrates our city while reducing our environmental impact is something we’re deeply proud of, and this recognition inspires us to keep raising the bar.”
Riverfest’s success reinforces Limerick’s position as a leader in live events and demonstrates how large-scale festivals can deliver memorable experiences while setting new standards for sustainability.