Access welcome guide

Accessibility at St. Patrick’s Festival Kilkenny

St. Patrick’s Festival Kilkenny welcomes all visitors and endeavors to be as accessible as possible to those who would like to attend. Wheelchair viewing areas are available at a number of our events including the St. Patrick’s Day Parade, Fire & Drum Spectacular and the majority of the kids shows [Pre-booking required]. The Festival Market is accessible via ramp and the Castle Park has paved access also. In addition a Relaxed Parade viewing area can be pre-booked for the St. Patrick’s Day Parade for those who need a bit more space from the crowds. A new event for 2026 Equal Vibes provides a performance space to celebrate those of all abilities at the Watergate Urban Park. While many festival events are accessible it is worth noting that the Parade Plaza will look a lot different during the festival with the introduction of the Festival Market and Festival Funfair and that there will be increased crowds and activity in the city over the weekend.

Wheelchair viewing area

Wheelchair viewing area for the Kilkenny St. Patrick’s Day Parade. Pre-booking Required.

Area will be located in front of the Review Stand beside the Left Bank on the junction of Patrick St/The Parade. Entrance passes are for the wheelchair user/access patron and one companion. Click the booking line to find out more and reserve your spot.

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Relaxed Parade space

Parade viewing area for neurodivergent children and adults and those with sensory processing differences.

The cordoned off viewing area allows for extra space from the crowd and the vehicle sirens and drums will be reduced while passing this zone.

Find out more and book your pass at the link below!

Book your spot

EQUAL VIBES

Event empowering people of all abilities through music and community

Join Equal vibes for an afternoon of entertainment at the newly opened Watergate Urban Park. All are welcome to enjoy and maybe even take part in this afternoon showcasing talent and community. Expect performances, dance competitions, spot prizes and lots of fun and big smiles!

Find out more

Accessible information for attractions, RESTAURANTS & Hotels in Kilkenny

We hope your visit to Kilkenny includes a stop at one of our local attractions or great eateries! We’ve gathered a list of accessible attractions, restaurants & hotels. Click the links for more information:

ATTRACTIONS:

Kilkenny Castle – Accessibility | Kilkenny Castle

Butler Gallery – Accessibility – Butler Gallery

St. Canice’s Cathedral – https://www.stcanicescathedral.ie/

Smithwick’s Beer Experience– Kilkenny: Smithwick’s Beer Experience | GetYourGuide

Woodstock – Accessibility – Woodstock House & Gardens

Medeval mile – https://www.medievalmilemuseum.ie/faq/

Mayfair Library – https://www.kilkennylibrary.ie/eng/libraries_locations/mayfair-library/

Gowran on the move outdoor hub https://communityfinanceireland.com/gowran-on-the-move-poised-to-open-new-one-of-a-kind-inclusive-outdoor-hub-in-spring-2024/

RESTAURANTS:

Rive Gauche – https://www.rivegauche.ie/about

Langton’s – https://www.langtons.ie/dining.html