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Kilkenny Arts Festival 2026
Kilkenny City, Co. Kilkenny
6 August - 16 August 2026
Family friendly
Something extraordinary is coming. For eleven days each August, a medieval city transforms. Kilkenny - its limestone streets, ancient courtyards, and soaring cathedral - becomes one of Ireland's most celebrated stages.

Now in its fifth decade, the Festival has built a reputation for programming that refuses to stay in its lane. Across more than 100 events, the Festival weaves together the expected and the extraordinary - and does it all against one of Europe's most beautiful backdrops.

This is a festival that belongs to its place. Kilkenny's unique character - its intimacy, its architecture - shapes everything that happens here. Artists come not just to perform, but to be part of something. Audiences come not just to watch, but to be genuinely surprised.

The full programme will be revealed in June. In the meantime - mark your calendar, book your accommodation early, and get ready.

Kilkenny Arts Festival. Eleven days. One extraordinary city. Don't miss it.

Contact details
Kilkenny, Ireland

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