LIVE MUSIC. FESTIVAL WEEKENDS. 300 YEARS OF STORIES.
Feiern Sie den St. Patrick’s Day im Smithwick’s Experience Kilkenny
From summer sessions in the Barrel Yard, to some of Kilkenny’s biggest festival weekends, there is always something incredible waiting to be known.
Kilkenny Through the Eyes of the Brewers
Join us on an immersive tour of Kilkenny City that tells the story of our rich brewing heritage and the important role brewing culture has played in shaping both Smithwick's and Kilkenny's evolution. Discover fascinating stories, hidden gems, and spectacular sights as you explore the city through the eyes of its brewers.
This unique experience has been created by our most experienced Brand Ambassador, Simon Walsh, and will reveal remarkable stories of Kilkenny's brewing past while showcasing some of the city's most iconic locations.
The experience begins at Smithwick's Experience Kilkenny, includes a guided walking tour through the city, and concludes with a paddle tasting in our bar.
Schedule: Thursday, 6 August & Thursday, 20 August
Time: 18:00 - 19:15 (75 minutes)
Ticket Information: €30 per person
KILKENNY’S SUMMER SOUNDTRACK STARTS HERE
BARREL YARD SESSIONS
Step through the gates of Smithwick’s Experience and in to one of Kilkenny’s most atmospheric live music settings. The Barrel Yard comes alive with live acts, great company and Smithwick’s poured in the place its story began.
Across the summer, local favourites and visiting performers take to the stage for a programme of free live music sessions. Set within the historic brewery grounds, our enclosed and heated courtyard has a full bar serving Smithwick’s, low-alcohol and non-alcoholic options.
Make a day of it: discover 300 years of Smithwick’s on the tour, then stay for the music and experience a side of Kilkenny you will not find anywhere else.
Free entry. Over 18s only. Line-up and performance times are subject to change.
TWO FESTIVAL DATES. ONE UNMISSABLE KILKENNY EXPERIENCE.
KILKENNY ARTS FESTIVAL
For ten unforgettable days, Kilkenny Arts Festival fills the city with extraordinary music, theatre, art and ideas — and Smithwick’s Experience puts you right at the heart of it.
This year, the Barrel Yard joins the official Kilkenny Arts Festival programme with two special live music sessions on Saturday 8 August and Sunday 16 August.
Between festival performances, step inside the historic brewery grounds for an experience with a distinctly Kilkenny character. Book a tour to uncover the people, stories and brewing heritage behind Smithwick’s, then stay for live music in the Barrel Yard and make more of your festival day.
Whether you've a long day of Festival-going behind you or a big night ahead (or both!), drop by the Barrel Yard across both Festival weekends and unwind with a beer and some laidback summer grooves.
Edel Crean and Barry Mullins will be on the decks Saturday 8th from 5-7pm, with Edel back solo on Sunday 16th from 3-5pm to keep the good vibes going.
TASTE KILKENNY. DISCOVER THE STORY BEHIND THE PINT
COMING THIS AUTUMN - SAVOUR KILKENNY
This October, Savour Kilkenny brings the city’s food and drink scene to life — and there is no better place to begin than the home of Ireland’s oldest ale.
Make Smithwick’s Experience part of your festival itinerary. Take a guided journey through more than 300 years of brewing heritage, explore the craft and flavour behind Smithwick’s and relax in the historic Barrel Yard before heading back out to enjoy everything the city has to offer.
Special Savour Kilkenny activity at Smithwick’s Experience will be announced soon.
