The Final Draft > Culture Night in Kilkenny: what to expect

Culture Night in Kilkenny: what to expect

One night for all: Culture Night in Ireland is a truly special event that’s proudly celebrating its 20th birthday this year. What began as grassroots, local event in Dublin’s Temple Bar has grown into a national and international event, and of course, we celebrate it here in Kilkenny with gusto.

Culture Night – also known in Irish as “Oíche Chultúir – is a celebration of everything magical about Irish arts, culture, and creativity. What makes it extra special? Each participating city has its own subculture, its own particular customs and heritage to explore.

When is Kilkenny Culture Night?

This year, Culture Night takes place on Friday, 19th September. All over Kilkenny, events, exhibitions, and workshops will be taking place, all free of charge for you to attend, supported by the Arts Council and Kilkenny County Council. Here’s our guide to six of the best of what’s on offer at Kilkenny Culture Night, 2025!

Burnchurch @ The Barrel Yard

Burnchurch have graced the stage here at the Barrel Yard many times now, and it’s always a great crowd and a heaving Yard. If you haven’t seen them play before, this would be a fantastic first gig to experience their folk-pop fusion, their magical melodies, and the incredible energy they bring to every show. Why not combine the gig with one of our beer tasting or brewery tours?

Burnchurch started their journey busking right here on the streets of Kilkenny and have grown into a band that’s touring the country, taking the stage at Electric Picnic, Féile na Fuaime and more. They’re an integral part of Kilkenny’s culture, and we’re delighted to have them back on our stage.

Entry is free for this, and you don’t have to book a place. Just arrive in plenty of time to ensure you get a good spot. There’ll be gourmet food trucks on site, and with a pint of Smithwick's, what more could you ask for!

A Presentation On The Vernacular Wrought Iron Farm Gate Heritage Of The Irish Landscape

A wonderfully niche and interesting presentation will be held on local wrought iron gate design, looking at their social, historical, and cultural significance, in Irish life and the Irish landscape. The presentation, at The Book and Coffee Shop on Williams Street, will be given by Shem Caulfield, an artist and heritage consultant who has been surveying and photographing these gates, and the local landscape, for over twenty years. The event runs from 6 pm to 8 pm, and you don’t have to book this in advance, just turn up on time!

Beats and Board Games

Taking place at The Cookie Co-op on Friary Street, the Beats and Board Games event features a host of retro board and card games, and a cafe full of those who love to play them!

A lively evening of games and good times, the event (7 pm to 9 pm) will be set to a soundtrack provided by local legend DJ Eddie B and fuelled by the Cookie Co-op’s tantalising cakes and coffees, which will be available to purchase on the night. Booking in advance is essential, so sign up early to make sure you get a seat!

Late Opening @ Butler Gallery

The Butler Gallery will open late on Culture Night, for an evening of family-friendly celebration that includes access to their new exhibition “Cities of the World,” by Kathy Prendergast and Chris Leach, as well as their permanent collection galleries. Expect some performance art, a map-making workshop, and music in the garden… an altogether whimsical and enchanting evening. You don’t need to book this in advance, but do check out their evening’s itinerary to make sure you get to the events of your choice.

Community Embroidery Exhibit

A brand new and very charming addition to Kilkenny for the 2025 Culture Night, this is an exhibition of a large work of embroidery that was created over several months by several artists.

In fact, over 245 pairs of hands brought this piece to life – a textile testament to the spirit of community, creative energy and collaboration in Kilkenny. The work will be on display in the window of the old Meubles Building, Johns Street.

The Night Creates

The Night Creates at Rothe House is a special Culture Night event supported by the Night Time Economy pilot and Creative Ireland. It’s a jam-packed evening featuring a vibrant lineup of local talent, running from 5:30 PM to 10 PM.

You can expect to see Creative Conversations, a panel discussion with Kilkenny artists and business minds (5:30 pm), live music by Seafall and Anthony McAuley & Friends (7–9 pm), and a comedy showcase by the Kilkenny Comedy Club (9 pm). Booking is recommended for this; you can do so here.