County Kilkenny is a place to gather where culture and adventure meet. There is so much to explore in one of Ireland’s most cosmopolitan cities, a gem in the heart of Ireland’s Ancient East.
This year’s St Patrick’s Festival Kilkenny promises a vibrant explosion of sights, sounds, and flavours, from the electrifying energy of marching bands parading through the medieval streets of Kilkenny to thrilling live entertainment and tasty treats at the bustling festival market.
History enthusiasts can step back in time and discover the secrets of the marble city through a series of lectures and guided walking tours, while music lovers can soak up the lively tunes echoing through the city.
For families, a towering, big-wheel and charming vintage fairground, bodhran (traditional Irish drum) workshops, face painting, children’s theatre, an unforgettable fire show and a spectacular circus performance with a climate-conscious clown.
Look out for surprise pop-up performances on the Parade Plaza and an explosive fireworks display that will light up the Kilkenny skies. The weekend culminates in the big spectacle, the St. Patrick’s Day parade, when the city comes alive with local stories and community spirit.
This year’s theme is Bí Beo, Bí Linn – be alive, be with us. On Monday, March 17th, the parade will weave through the Kilkenny streets with stilt walkers, Latvian dancers, hula hoopers, jugglers, an alien invasion, cat pageantry, Buí Bolg Giant Snake, five American marching bands, traditional music and dance, several brass bands and lots more.
Free performances are taking place across the weekend, including live music, the World Irish Dancing Champion, Zahra Khodabacksh, and contemporary folk band Kíla, live in concert on the festival stage against the backdrop of the iconic Kilkenny Castle.
Festival Chairperson and Mayor of Kilkenny, Andrew McGuinness commented, “We have created a programme that celebrates everything we love about our city – its history, its culture, its people, and its warm welcome.
We’re bringing back some festival favourites and raising the bar with brand-new surprises to delight visitors of all ages. Kilkenny will be buzzing, and I’d encourage everyone to join the celebration.”
With over 120 events planned for St Patrick’s Festival Kilkenny 2025, meet in Kilkenny in March. For more information, visit St Patrick’s Festival Kilkenny. Opens in new window
St. Patrick’s Festival Kilkenny video: https://youtu.be/AtHFwCg-ULQ
