The Final Draft > Winter in Kilkenny
Winter in Kilkenny
As the crisp autumn air gives way to frostier mornings and December’s twinkling lights, Kilkenny transforms seamlessly from its spooky Samhain self into a whimsical winter wonderland. From late November through to the New Year, Ireland's medieval capital buzzes with events, from live music and entertainment to festive traditions.
Whether you're a local looking to do some seasonal socialising or you’re a visitor planning the perfect cosy getaway, Kilkenny's winter events calendar is a truly magical one. From enchanting markets to intimate concerts and immersive light shows, here are some of the best events happening all over the city in the coming months…
November
November in Kilkenny is already starting to ramp up for the silly season, setting the stage perfectly for holiday cheer.
Music takes centre stage in November (15th and 16th) at the Set Theatre, where Irish folk powerhouse Lisa O’Neill brings her raw, emotive energy and beautiful spirit to the Set for two truly special nights. Fresh from sold-out tours in Ireland and the O’Neill's distinctive, beautiful voice and captivating, human storytelling will fill the air with Irish soul. An unmissable, always emotional event - tickets from €30 via set.ie, and this one is sure to sell out.
On November 21st, nostalgia reigns when Back2Basics Kilkenny brings its high-octane throwback energy to the Set, with a '90s old-school dance reunion that promises thumping beats and some serious ‘90s rave energy. Grab your furry boots and your bucket hats and take a trip back in time so that you can dance the night away to the anthems that defined an era.
On the 22nd of November, you have the opportunity to experience The Live Last Waltz in The Set, Kilkenny. It’s an incredibly well produced live re-enactment of the Martin Scorsese documentary The Last Waltz, as it followed The Band plus some iconic special guests through their last ever gig. It’s performed by a ten-piece band and draws fans of The Band and of Scorsese from near and far for every performance. Book your tickets early to secure a seat!
December
The crown jewel in Kilkenny’s calendar this winter, Yulefest returns to light up the city – and everyone's spirits – with a curated lineup of events. Running from November 29th, Yulefest offers a fantastic calendar with many events free to attend, giving you plenty of opportunities to get fully into the festive spirit.
The festival spans Kilkenny City and County, drawing families, foodies, and festive wanderers into a merry-go-round of markets, music, and Christmas merriment. There’s truly something for everyone – from the grand arrival of Santa Claus himself to launch the festival, through to artisan stalls spilling over with beautiful, handcrafted gifts, confectionary, food, and other seasonal treats.
A highlight of this year’s festival must be the Irish debut of Luxmuralis, the incredible projection art gallery that’s renowned for illuminating the UK’s most beautiful Cathedrals and heritage sites. They’re coming to Ireland for the very first time to stage their “Starlight” production from the 14th of December for eight incredible, illuminated evenings.
This immersive Christmas light experience takes place at St. Canice's Cathedral, and blends light, sound, and fine-art projections to create a beautiful, colourful world that's bathed in colour and brimming with hope and wonder. You will need to buy tickets for this event.
Don't miss the Yulefest Bandstand for live music, the creative and colourful Christmas Tree Festival, the traditional Christmas Market, and for the kids, Santa's Magical Village at Castlecomer Discovery Park (complete with elf mischief and a personal meet-and-greet with the big guy himself).