In 2023, Kilkenny’s Savour Kilkenny festival welcomed 57,000 visitors. This shows how popular Kilkenny’s cultural events are, attracting people from all over1. As we head into summer 2025, Kilkenny is getting ready for a range of festivals. These events will delight those who love food, art, and music. With highlights like the Kilkenny Arts Festival and the lively St. Brigid’s Festival, there’s always something happening in our city1.
Our guide for Kilkenny’s summer 2025 festivals will help you plan your visit. We’ve picked out the top events for you to enjoy. Whether you want to experience Irish summer traditions or dive into Kilkenny’s culture, this guide is your go-to1.
Key Takeaways
- Kilkenny offers a wide range of festivals that cater to diverse tastes and interests.
- The Savour Kilkenny festival attracted 57,000 attendees in 20231.
- Festivals include free gigs and ticketed performances for all age groups and preferences1.
- The Kilkenny Arts Festival runs from August 8 to 18, 20252.
- Kilkenny is celebrated for its blend of traditional and modern cultural events3.
Introduction to Kilkenny’s Summer Festivals
Kilkenny comes alive each summer with cultural celebrations. It’s famous for its arts and music festivals that attract people from all over. The mix of old charm and new creativity makes these events among Ireland’s best.
Why Kilkenny is a Hotspot for Summer Festivals
Kilkenny is top for summer festivals due to its history and arts. Festivals like the Cats Laugh and Kilkenny Arts are held almost all year. With over 30,000 visitors for The Cats Laugh Festival, Kilkenny’s events are truly global4.
Overview of Festival Types
Kilkenny’s festivals cover a wide range of interests. The Cats Laugh brings both local and global comedy, while the Kilkenny Arts Festival shows off the city’s creativity with music and art5. There’s also the Callan Open Doors festival, full of activities and public art, from May 23 to May 266.
These festivals show Kilkenny’s love for culture. They promise a unique and exciting time for every visitor.
Festivals in Kilkynn summer 2025
This summer, Kilkenny is buzzing with exciting events for locals and visitors alike. There’s something for everyone, from music festivals to arts and cultural shows. It’s going to be a season you don’t want to miss.
Highlighted Events
The Kilkenny Roots Festival takes place in May. It features over 90 shows in more than 30 venues78. There will be amazing acts from Ireland, the USA, Canada, and the UK during this time8.
The Kilkenny Arts Festival will run from 8th to the 18th of August2. Acts like Mari Samuelsen and Lisa O’Neill will perform. You can also enjoy the music of Philip Glass, presented by top musicians2. Other great artists include Cleek Schrey, Joseph Decosimo, and Luke Richardson2.
The Cat Laughs Comedy Festival happens on the June bank holiday weekend. It brings laughs with Irish and international comedy8. And in October, don’t miss the Savour Kilkenny – Festival of Food. It brings together local food markets, cooking shows, and great eating opportunities8.
General Information on Festival Dates and Ticket Prices
The events schedule Kilkenny 2025 is full from June through September. Tickets range from €10 to €32.50, making them affordable for everyone8. For example, don’t miss Niall Vallely’s “78 Revolutions” on 16 August2.
If you’re looking to buy tickets, it’s easy. From big shows to smaller events, festival ticketing in Ireland is straightforward. This helps make sure everyone can join the fun all season long.
Music and Arts Festivals Kilkenny
Kilkenny is gearing up for a summer full of music and arts in 2025. It will be buzzing with cultural celebrations that anyone who loves music and art should visit. There will be lively energy, beautiful melodies, and amazing artworks all around the city.
Top Music Festivals to Attend
This summer, Kilkenny will shine with many music festivals. The Kilkenny Arts Festival 2025 will feature an amazing show by Mick Flannery at the Set Theatre. It will mix local and global sounds9. Also, don’t miss the Electric Picnic 2025 at Stradbally Hall in Laois. It will have stars like Calvin Harris, Nas, and Kylie Minogue thrilling the crowd9. And over the May Bank holiday, the Smithwick’s Kilkenny Roots Festival will light up the city with its roots music8.
If you’re into different music styles, check out the Morgan Wallen: One Night At a Time 2025 concert in Dublin. It will feature Morgan Wallen, Larry Fleet, and Lauren Watkins9. The Sea Sessions – Weekend Camping 2025 at Bundoran Beach is also a must-see. It will showcase acts like Jake Bugg, Cian Ducrot, and Johnny Marr9.
Arts and Cultural Events
Kilkenny isn’t just about music; it’s also a key spot for arts throughout summer 2025. Every November, the Kilkenomics Festival mixes economics with comedy, drawing a diverse crowd8. During the June bank holiday, the Cat Laughs Comedy Festival brings in over 30,000 people to Kilkenny. This shows how loved and fun it is8.
The arts scene continues with events like Savour Kilkenny – Festival of Food, which happens every October. It’s a treat for both the taste buds and the eyes8. Plus, from May to August, Kilkenny has 51 festivals and summer schools. This makes it a top place for enjoying arts and culture10.
Family-friendly Events in Kilkenny
Kilkenny is famous for its many festivals suitable for all ages. It’s a top pick for family events. The summer is packed with fun, from children’s activities festivals to days out for the whole family1.
Best Festivals for Kids and Families
The Yulefest lights up late November till December. It brings markets, music, and family fun, ensuring no one gets bored1. In July/August, the Durrow Scarecrow Festival is a hit. There’s a €3,000 prize for the best scarecrow and plenty more to see with your family and friends7.
Safety and Tips for Family Attendees
Keeping your family safe at festivals is very important. Make sure to take breaks and find child-friendly areas. And always know where the safety people are. At the Cat Laughs Comedy Festival in June, with its huge crowd, watch out for your little ones8.
There’s a lot of family events in Kilkenny to choose from. Tips on staying safe are a must. This way, you can enjoy these occasions with peace of mind, creating unforgettable memories with your loved ones.
Medieval Festival Kilkenny
The Medieval Festival Kilkenny brings the city’s colourful history to life. It’s a top festival in Ireland for history lovers. Thousands visit, keen to see the past in Kilkenny’s historic streets each August. It’s part of a cluster of summer events, including the Kilkenny Arts Festival, making Kilkenny a cultural hotpot in summer7.
Historical Significance
This festival plays a big role in Kilkenny’s history. It honours the city’s medieval roots. Visitors get to explore the medieval times through displays and reenactments. The festival brings a taste of the past with its traditional villages, where blacksmiths and craftsmen show their skills.
Participation in Medieval Activities
At the Medieval Festival Kilkenny, everyone can join in medieval fun. You can try on olden-day clothes and have a go at archery or sword fighting. There are also talks about medieval life and crafts. Families and history fans both find it fascinating.
Event Highlights
The show’s reenactments are a must-see. They include battles and plays that bring history to life. There are parades too, showing off medieval clothes and symbols. Market stalls sell traditional items and food. And, live music creates an authentic medieval feel.
The festival keeps growing in popularity each year. It’s become one of Ireland’s favourite historical events. People always remember the fun and history lessons they experienced in Kilkenny.
Food and Drink Festivals in Kilkenny
In Kilkenny, the summer is a time of joy for food lovers. It’s known for having some of Ireland’s best food festivals. These events feature food from Ireland and around the world. They give chefs and local makers a chance to show off their skills.
The summer of 2025 will be special in Kilkenny. Several big food and drink festivals are planned. In May alone, there will be about 30 festivals, with one making up 3.3% of the total11. The fun continues through June, July, and August, offering a wide range of tasty foods.
One festival not to be missed is the Savour Kilkenny Food Festival in October. It is Kilkenny’s biggest food event. This festival brings together local chefs, makers, and food-lovers11. Its events run from March to summer, keeping people excited about food all year11.
Ireland has many more food festivals besides Kilkenny’s. The Burren Food Trail and the Boyne Valley Food Series are just two examples. These events run throughout the year, offering unique food experiences12. The Gourmet Greenway Events in Mayo and Achill Island also offer a different food adventure12. Food festivals can be found all over Ireland, from the south to the north, each place adding its own flavour11.
Don’t miss the Dingle Food Festival’s 10th anniversary events this year. There will be food activities, workshops, and lots of tastings to enjoy12. The Taste of Cavan is another highlight. In 2015, it welcomed 38,500 visitors, proving it’s a top food event in the country12.
In summary, Kilkenny shines with its food and drink events during the summer. It’s the perfect chance to enjoy great food, watch experts cook, and take in the food culture. For those who love food, Kilkenny is a place to not miss.
Outdoor Festivals in Kilkenny
Kilkenny is an Irish city known for its outdoorsy celebrations. It’s full of adventure and natural charm. Festivals here make use of the beautiful landscapes and historical spots.
Top Outdoor Event Spots
The town’s castle grounds, public parks, and the lovely town centre are key spots. They host many festivals. The Kilkenny Arts Festival, running since 1974, makes August a time for creative buzz17. It’s where the city comes alive with arts. The Castlecomer Wellie Race on New Year’s Day mixes tradition and fun with a 6.4km race7. Yulefest Kilkenny turns late November to December festive. The city’s heart sees markets and events, getting everyone in the holiday spirit1.
Activities to Try at Outdoor Festivals
At Kilkenny’s festivals, there’s lots to do. Nature walks and history tours await. So do outdoor concerts and plays. Everyone can find something they enjoy. The Kilkenny Roots Fest during the May bank holiday features over 40 acts17.
Enjoy craft markets, sports, and workshops. They make festivals more engaging. For instance, the Durrow Scarecrow Fest in late June has a scarecrow championship with a €3,000 prize7. The Dino Dig at The National Reptile Zoo in late June offers fun for families. It’s a hit with people of all ages, adding to Kilkenny’s appeal13.
Kilkenny Cultural Events in Summer 2025
Kilkenny is set to host a wide variety of cultural events this summer. This brings the city’s heritage and arts scene to life. It’s a great chance for people to learn and get involved in local crafts and arts.
Highlight on Local Artisans
In Kilkenny, we celebrate the amazing work of our local craftspeople. They create everything from detailed pottery to unique jewellery. The elaborate Kilkenny Arts Festival in August shines. It draws in artists from all areas like theatre, dance, visual arts, literature, and music14. This event is more than just a show. It’s an interactive place where people can really see and appreciate the work of these artisans.
Workshops and Educational Opportunities
Kilkenny also offers many educational and inspiring activities. These include craft sessions and expert talks. Take the Savour Kilkenny Food Festival in October, for example. It has cooking demos, food markets, and other gourmet activities14. These not only teach but also entertain.
There are also workshops focusing on Kilkenny’s local arts. They are a fantastic way to learn about traditional Irish crafts. Plus, you’ll discover their place in today’s culture.
| Event | Date | Key Activities |
|---|---|---|
| Kilkenny Arts Festival | August | Theatre, dance, visual arts, literature, music |
| Savour Kilkenny Food Festival | October 26-28 | Cooking demonstrations, food markets, gourmet events |
Key Dates to Remember for Kilkenny Festivals
Kilkenny’s festival lineup is full of fun activities for everyone’s taste. Kilkenny’s summer is buzzing with music, arts, food, and laughter events. Below, check out a breakdown of events by month for a hassle-free summer in Kilkenny.
Month-wise Breakdown of Events
Start your year with the Kilkenny Tradfest, a feast for music lovers, from March 15-198. In May, the Smithwick’s Kilkenny Roots Festival blends Irish and global sounds over the bank holiday8. June welcomes the Cat Laughs festival with top comedians, and the Sea Sessions for music and surf fans from June 21-23 in County Donegal15.
July is all about music at the Kilkenny Outdoor Music Festival on July 616. Also catch the Galway Film Fleadh from July 9-1415. August’s highlights are the Kilkenny Arts Festival and the Kilkenny Animated Festival816. Also in August, check out the Birr Vintage Week and the Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann in County Wexford15.
September brings the Lisdoonvarna Matchmaking Festival and the Listowel International Storytelling event from September 12-1515. The Dublin Theatre Festival starts on September 2615. October has the Savour Kilkenny Festival for food lovers816. November marks the Kilkenomics Festival, mixing economics and comedy8.
How to Plan Your Attendance
Planning ahead is crucial for a smooth experience. Study the festival calendar and choose what you’d like to see. For big festivals, get your tickets early, and book your stay soon to avoid missing out8.
It’s also good to mix high-energy events with calmer or family activities16. For example, after the Cat Laughs Festival, unwind with a canoe tour or fun games at the Kilkenny Activity Centre. Balancing your schedule ensures you make the most of your visit to Kilkenny.
Popular Venues for Kilkenny Festivals
Kilkenny’s festivals shine because of their varied settings. By combining top venues with special locations, these events become thrilling and engaging.
Main Venues in the City
The city’s main places are key during Kilkenny’s festivals. The Kilkenny Arts Festival uses lovely places like the Set Theatre and Watergate Theatre3. For the Kilkenny Roots Festival, 30+ locations see 40 acts, giving music fans an amazing time7. The Cat Laughs Comedy Festival, drawing over 30,000, shows off talented comedians in places like the Kilkenny Ormonde Hotel8. The Kilkenomics Festival mixes top economists and comedians in the city’s famous spots3.
Unique Festival Locations
Besides the city, Kilkenny finds unique festival spots. For example, the Savour Kilkenny Food Festival uses The Parade for food markets and chef demos over the Halloween Bank Holiday weekend38. The Kilkenny Tradfest, at St. Patrick’s Day, offers workshops in historic sites3. The Durrow Scarecrow Festival, with an all-Ireland Scarecrow Championship, brings Durrow to life7. These mix history and charm with modern-day fun for a perfect festival blend.
Medieval Attractions to Visit Alongside Festivals
Exploring Kilkenny’s medieval sites would enhance your festival experience. The city boasts a rich history that includes castles, abbeys, and cathedrals. These places offer educational and fascinating insights into Ireland’s past.
Castles and Historical Sites
First on your list should be Kilkenny Castle, a must-see according to Tripadvisor17. Dating back to the 12th century, it was rebuilt in the 13th century. This castle lets you step into the past. You can also admire its gardens and the grand interiors.
Tubbrid Castle, available to book on Airbnb, is a gem for history lovers17. It allows a unique stay in a medieval castle. The Hole in the Wall Pub, situated in the oldest townhouse from 1582, offers a charming blend of history and local drinks17.
Don’t miss St. Canice’s Cathedral and its Round Tower. It’s the second-longest cathedral in Ireland, built in the 13th century. Climb its tower for great views of Kilkenny18.
Local History Tours
For a deeper festival experience, consider local history tours. Dunmore Caves’ tour costs €5 for adults and uncovers ancient tales17.
Jerpoint Abbey, from the 12th century, shares stories of its monastic past17. Rothe House, a merchant’s house from the 16th century, adds to the historical layers of Kilkenny18.
Visiting medieval Kilkenny makes the festival more memorable. It shows Kilkenny’s important place in Ireland’s history.
Tips for First-time Festival Goers
Going to a festival in Kilkenny for the first time can feel both thrilling and a bit scary. We’ve put together some handy tips to make your first festival experience smoother. These include what to pack and useful travel tips for Ireland. With our Kilkenny festival guide, you’ll be ready for a fantastic summer.
Packing Essentials
For a festival, pack knowing you might face Ireland’s unpredictable weather. Bring a waterproof jacket, comfy shoes for walking, and clothes you can add or remove as it gets warmer or cooler. Remember sunscreen and a hat since the sun shines for many hours in June and July19. A water bottle you can refill is vital to keep hydrated all day.
Travel and Accommodation Advice
Sorting out your travel and where you’ll stay is crucial. Kilkenny has good transport links, making it easy to get to from cities like Dublin. Here, big events like the “Flavours of Fingal” draw huge crowds every year13. Early booking is smart for hotels or B&Bs, especially for the Kilkenny Cat Laughs festival’s busy 30th edition. It will have 37 comedians20. If you’re on a budget, consider camping near the festival site.
With these tips and our travel advice for Ireland, you’ll feel ready for Kilkenny’s exciting festivals. From city explorations to festival fun, there’s so much to enjoy. Check out events like the African culture fest at Kilkenny Castle Park20 or the family-friendly Mountpanther Farm Park13. Be well-informed and prepared, and your festival adventure will be one to remember.
Community Gatherings in Kilkenny
Community gatherings in Kilkenny show a strong community spirit. They include events like the Kilkenny Tradfest in March and the Kilkenomics Festival in November8. These events help people come together. They allow locals and visitors to enjoy the area’s rich culture.
Importance of Community Spirit
Community spirit is crucial at local events in Kilkenny. They bring people together and promote unity. For instance, the Kilkenny Arts Festival offers music, plays, readings, and art. It’s a chance for both residents and visitors to share culture21. Also, the Cat Laughs Comedy Festival is a time for laughter. It happens during the June bank holiday and brings together over 30,000 people8.
Opportunities for Local Involvement
Kilkenny offers many ways for locals to be part of events. People can volunteer or join as performers or sellers. Events like Savour Kilkenny and the Smithwick’s Kilkenny Roots Festival draw in locals8. They are great for showcasing local food, arts, and music. These festivals allow everyone to celebrate together.
Community gatherings in Kilkenny are about celebrating local life and culture. They bring people close together. Also, these events offer visitors a warm welcome to Ireland.
Art Installations and Performances
This summer, Kilkenny will buzz with art. Helen Comerford’s sketches, drawings, and notes will be a highlight. This event celebrates her art after she passed away22. Ross Costigan’s photos, sadly he’s no longer with us, add magic to the Festival Gallery22.
Live shows get even better with 78 Revolutions. Directed by Tom Creed, it mixes music and dance. It’s a must-see in Ireland22. Make sure not to miss Migration Sonatina, led by John Scott. It shows off Irish dance skills beautifully22.
Art that truly captures the heart like A Mother’s Voice will be there. With music by Linda and Irene Buckley. Musici Ireland also joins, giving voice to women from history22. Don’t forget Re-Connection at KCAT Studio in Callan. They’ll showcase art from across the globe. This includes work by artists linked to eight international groups. It’s a unique chance to see an international art mix22.
The Carlow Arts Festival is key, celebrating 45 years. It kicks off with Joan Català, a Spanish sensation. You can’t miss this23. The Cork Midsummer Festival takes you to magical places, like woods and pools. There, you will see incredible pieces by top artists23.
In contrast, the Cairde Sligo Arts Festival is full of music, plays, and more. Look out for Prologue and The Air Between Us. They will astound everyone23. The Earagail Arts Festival wows with circus and dance. It’s the perfect blend of culture, art, and nature23.
By 2025, the Kilkenny Arts Festival will be unforgettable. It features stars like Mari Samuelsen and Lisa O’Neill. You’ll also see the Irish National Opera’s European premieres and many more exciting events. Don’t miss the artistic marvel and deep history in Kilkenny. Art truly brings the city alive2.
How to Get Involved in Local Festivals
Joining in Kilkenny’s exciting festivals is very rewarding. There are lots of ways to take part. From helping as a volunteer to selling your goods or showcasing your talents, everyone can find a way to join in. These roles make the festivals more fun and help you feel closer to your community.
Volunteering Opportunities
Getting involved by volunteering gives a unique look behind the scenes of big events. Across Ireland, the summer of 2025 will see 51 festivals and summer schools. Places like Limerick and Monaghan will host various events from late May to August10. These festivals need help in many areas. You could be setting things up, talking to visitors, or helping performers. So, if you love traditional music events or cultural festivals, there’s a spot for you.
Becoming a Vendor or Performer
Want to sell your stuff at festivals? Kilkenny’s events are the place to be. From music to maritime celebrations, there’s a stage for every kind of vendor. And for performers, there are events like the Fleadh Nua 2025 in Ennis. This festival will have concerts and street shows10. Joining as a seller or performer helps make the festival more lively. It also draws in visitors keen to see new talents and wares.
Conclusion
Kilkenny’s summer festivals bring a spot of magic every year. No matter your passion, there’s something for you. The Kilkenny Arts Festival runs ten days. It’s packed with over 100 events, pulling in top artists from around the world. This boosts the local economy and draws visitors from far away24.
At the same time, The Cat Laughs Festival hits its 25th year in 2025. It features big names in comedy like Dara Ó Briain and Bill Murray. Its spirit makes the June bank holiday weekend special in Kilkenny25.
Imagine wandering through ancient buildings and lush gardens. These places host free and ticketed events during the festivals. Kilkenny mixes its medieval past with modern arts to make every festival a standout24.
Don’t miss the Kilkenny Design Centre or the grandeur of Kilkenny Castle and St. Canice’s Cathedral. The festivals are a time to dive into Kilkenny’s deep culture and history. They leave a mark that lasts25. Get ready for a unique journey through Kilkenny’s beauty and creativity.
FAQ
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References:
- Food for thought: Events and festivals in Kilkenny in 2025 · Ken On Food
- Kilkenny Arts Festival Announces 2025 Programme
- Festival Guide Kilkenny | Langtons Hotel Kilkenny
- Discover Ireland’s Charming Small Festivals | Ireland & UK Healing Spirit Festival
- Things To Do In Kilkenny
- Kilkenny town opens its doors to new festival next weekend!
- Festivals in Kilkenny
- Festivals In Kilkenny | Events In Kilkenny
- Upcoming Music Festivals in Ireland in 2025 & 2025 – Songkick
- Kilkenny Arts Festivals 2025 – Irish Bliss
- The Ultimate Guide To Food And Drink Festivals Ireland 2025
- 10 of the Best Food Trails & Festivals in Ireland | Georgina Campbell
- 60 things to do this summer in Ireland
- Smithwick’s Experience Brewery Tour Kilkenny
- 15 Great Festivals to Discover Across Ireland
- Smithwick’s Experience Brewery Tour Kilkenny
- 22 Best Things To Do In Kilkenny in 2025
- 15 Best Things to Do in Kilkenny: A Medieval Gem (2025)
- Summer in Ireland
- June Bank Holiday weekend Kilkenny: Top five things to do and see
- Calendar of Events in Ireland
- Stellar programme for this year’s Kilkenny Arts Festival
- 6 essential Irish arts festivals this summer
- 14 Facts About Kilkenny Arts Festival
- Visit The Cat Laughs Festival in Kilkenny | Live the World
