St Patrick’s Festival Kilkenny has launched its exciting programme for 2026 to celebrate Ireland’s national holiday.
The 'Big Festival in a Small City’ takes place throughout the city from March 14 to 17.
A packed programme brings together more than 80 events celebrating Ireland’s rich heritage, folklore, and contemporary Irish culture. The line-up includes family and street entertainment, tours and workshops, plus festival favourites such as American marching bands, live music and theatre, a breathtaking 'fire and drum spectacular' and pop-up performances.
At the centre of the festivities is Kilkenny’s Parade Plaza and vibrant festival market, open daily until 8 pm throughout the celebration. It features nostalgic carnival rides, panoramic views from the big wheel, the helter-skelter, and a vintage carousel. Face painting, children’s theatre, and surprise performances entertain the little ones, while adults can enjoy local food and craft stallholders.
The highlight of the festival is the grand Parade on Tuesday, March 17, with hundreds of performers, dancers, stilt walkers, puppeteers, jugglers, and local groups winding through Kilkenny’s medieval streets under the theme of ‘Together - Le Chéile’.
“St Patrick’s Day has been a high point of the year in Kilkenny for generations. Kilkenny County Council is proud to continue this living tradition,” said Cllr. John Coonan, Mayor of Kilkenny City.
“St Patrick’s Festival Kilkenny has grown into a major four-day event, attracting visitors at a key time of year to Ireland’s medieval capital. The 2026 programme offers something for families, communities and visitors of all ages, while showcasing Kilkenny’s heritage, creativity and renowned hospitality.”
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Speaking at the launch of St Patrick’s Festival Kilkenny 2026, Ciara Sugrue, Head of Festivals and Events at Fáilte Ireland, said: "Fáilte Ireland is pleased to support St. Patrick's Festival Kilkenny. Festivals and events like this showcase the very best of Irish culture, music, and entertainment, inspiring both domestic and international visitors to explore new destinations across the country.
"By investing in St. Patrick's Festival Kilkenny, we’re strengthening Kilkenny’s position within Ireland's Ancient East as a must-visit destination and helping to drive economic benefits for local businesses and communities across the county and wider region.”
Sister Festivals in the Marble City
The municipal celebration brings locals, visitors, artists, and international performers together, alongside its sister event, Kilkenny Tradfest, featuring over 100 trad legends and emerging artists includes acclaimed Irish musicians Mundy, Iarla Ó Lionáird, Cormac McCarthy, Aoife Ní Bhriain, Clare Sands, Emma Langford, Séamus and Caoimhe Uí Fhlatharta, Pádraig Jack and Band, plus many more.
Presented by Kilkenny County Council with support from Failte Ireland, St Patrick’s Festival Kilkenny is hailed as one of Ireland’s most spectacular celebrations of Irish culture and heritage, offering a unique experience this St Patrick’s Weekend.
You can learn more about St. Patrick's Festival Kilkenny on its website.
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