There is nothing like the roar of a live crowd. After two years of missing out, we are delighted to welcome back live events to Kilkenny. If you love festivals as much as we do, Kilkenny is the perfect spot for a city break. Our packed festival schedule brings people together all year round sharing a love for art, music, comedy, food and so much more. Don’t forget to book comfortable, affordable accommodation soon during these busy periods in the city. Here is a small taste of this year’s events in Kilkenny.
1. KILKENNY ROOTS FESTIVAL (29TH APRIL – 02ND MAY 2022)
Did you know Kilkenny has its own Americana/Roots music festival? Since it first hit the scene in 1998, the festival has attracted some of the finest names from this exciting genre including Ray LaMontagne, Richmond Fontaine, Rodney Crowell, and Alabama Shakes to name a few. Unlike a typical festival, Roots gigs take place across 30 venues in the city centre, hosting over 40 Irish international acts. There are more than 90 shows, some ticketed, some free, taking place from early afternoon well into the night. Join unique acts, new and old, performing swing, bluegrass, blues, folk and rockabilly music, followed by some of the most loyal crowds.
2. CAT LAUGHS FESTIVAL (15TH AUGUST – 13TH SEPTEMBER 2022)
Each year, thousands of people make a comedy pilgrimage to Kilkenny to enjoy a show from their favourite or an up-and-coming comic. The Cats Laugh (which usually takes place on the June Bank Holidays weekend) is happening in August and is one of the most popular and well-attended festivals in Ireland. Grown from small beginnings, the festival is one of the largest non-recorded comedy festivals in Europe. Don’t be surprised to see top comics performing & attending some of these hilarious shows, enjoying the relaxed, no-pressure atmosphere.
3. KILKENNY ARTS FESTIVAL (4TH -14TH AUGUST 2022)
Kilkenny Arts Festival is truly a festival for the people. Since its foundation in 1974, the festival had brought together musicians, performers, writers and artists in Ireland’s medieval city, bonding and enjoying shared interests. For 10 days in August, the city’s most beautiful and important buildings become settings for unique collaborations and intimate encounters between audiences and artists. Visit our churches, castle, courtyards, townhouses and gardens enjoying a blend of tradition and innovation in a range of events for all ages.
4. SEPTEMBER SOUNDS (24TH – 26TH SEPTEMBER 2021)
September Sounds aims to ‘enrich the lives of our citizens and support the music and entertainment industry’. This schedule of outdoor live performances is supported by Kilkenny County Council and Watergate Theatre and helps Kilkenny musicians (born or based), producers, promoters and venues get on the map and show their talents. This excellent event will be free to attend but ticketed in order to comply with Covid 219 crowd control restrictions
5. KILKENNY DAY (DATE TBC)
We are so excited about the return of our favourite day of the year, Kilkenny Day! Join hundreds of neighbours, local businesses and visitors to celebrate all things Kilkenny. Explore our attractions, discover our heritage and enjoy the company of locals on this special day, reminding us how lucky we are to live in this gorgeous place. Don the black and amber for the day, reminding us of our sporting prowess and enjoy some locally made food and drink, celebrating Kilkenny producers. Enjoy stalls, face painting, live music, craft markets, heritage trails and so much more. Keep your eye on the official Kilkenny Day social media for more information.
Festivals and events in Kilkenny are a notoriously busy time so book tickets and accommodation soon to avoid disappointment! Hoban Hotel is perfect for those who want to be part of the action without being kept awake by late-night revellers. Our location on the edge of the city is affordable and ideal for a great night’s sleep.
Author Bio: Katie McGarr is a travel-savvy writer for The Hoban Hotel Kilkenny, a world-class hotel for business and leisure travel, offering exceptional accommodation and dining experiences in Ireland’s historic marble city. When she’s not taking vibrant street photos, you can find her writing articles about travel, food, and lifestyle.
