This year’s festival is running from March 14 to 17 2025 and promises an explosion of sights, sounds and flavours with over 200 events on offer alongside it’s sister festival, Kilkenny Tradfest!
St Patrick’s Festival Kilkenny has grown this year from a one-day event to a lively four-day spectacle.
A firm favourite for visitors in Ireland and further afield, the Big Festival in a Small City is set to take place from March 14 until March 17, 2025.
This year’s festival promises an explosion of sights, sounds, and flavours, from the electrifying energy of American marching bands and thrilling live entertainment to tasty treats at the bustling festival market.
History buffs can step back in time with lectures and guided walking tours, while music lovers can soak up the lively tunes echoing through the city.
For families, the towering big wheel and charming vintage fairground, drumming workshops and pop-up performances, including Samba Katz, The Hit Machine, Rhythm Riot Performance, Karbunklis Latvian Dancers, The Absurdist Pipe Band on the Parade Plaza, will keep the little ones entertained.
The weekend culminates in the big spectacle, the St. Patrick’s Day Parade, as the city comes alive with colour, local stories and community spirit. The parade will be followed by a free live performance from Kila on the festival stage with the iconic Kilkenny Castle as its backdrop.
On Sunday, March 16, an explosive Fireworks Display will light up Kilkenny skies. Organisers are encouraging families to take their vantage point in Kilkenny Castle Park.
Festival Chairperson and Mayor of Kilkenny, Andrew McGuinness, said the events will celebrate all of the best of Kilkenny.
“Thanks to the incredible support from Fáilte Ireland and Kilkenny County Council, we’ve been able to create a programme that celebrates everything we love about our city – its history, its culture, its people, and its warm welcome,” he enthused.
“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.”
Meanwhile, on top of all the St. Patrick’s Day excitement, St. Patrick’s Festival has teamed up with Kilkenny Tradfest for two exclusive events under the touring artwork ‘Museum of The Moon’, an installation by UK artist Luke Jerram at St Canice’s Cathedral.