For 30 years the Kilkenny Cat Laughs has heralded the start of the summer and the festival takes place in a series of venues in the city. The Cat Laughs has built a reputation for presenting some of the finest Irish comedians together with international acts.

In the past comedians have included Graham Norton, Joanne McNally, Deirdre O’Kane, David O’Doherty, Adam Hills, Sarah Millican, Bill Bailey, Bill Burr, Eleanor Tiernan, George Wendt, Bill Murray and many others. The festival is the original Irish comedy festival and is the fourth longest-running comedy festival in the world. It is known for

it's high standard of comedy but also for its relaxed, laid-back nature.

“The best little comedy festival in the world” – The Guardian