The Final Draft > What’s Happening in Kilkenny this Summer
What’s Happening in Kilkenny this Summer
Summer is made for exploration and there’s no better place to discover something new than Kilkenny. As you trace the pathways of the Marble city, let your sense of adventure lead you onwards. Celebrate the arts, get together with friends and embrace the extraordinary. There’s so much to uncover within the city and further afield. Take a look at what’s happening this summer 2024 in Kilkenny.
Barrel Yard Sessions
Dreaming of dynamic live music, delicious street food and a fun-filled atmosphere this summer? Then be sure to stop by the Barrel Yard Sessions at the Smithwick’s Experience Kilkenny any weekend during May-September 2024. The big draw of the sessions is a music program that will showcase classic rock and Americana acts guaranteed to delight the crowds along with chill-out vibes and DJ sessions for a diverse summer experience. On the food side of things, crowd pleasing favourites will be on rotation during the weekends with Indian delicacies, barbecue delights, Italian fare, wood fired pizza, and the very best in Caribbean cuisine. The full details of each session’s lineup will be updated on our social media channels and advertised locally, so stay tuned!
Kilkenny Arts Festival
The Smithwick’s Experience Kilkenny is proud to be one of the sponsors of this year’s Kilkenny Arts Festival. For ten days over August, the festival brings together musicians, performers, writers, artists and audiences hungry for new works of art. Set against the picturesque backdrop of the medieval city – with performances taking place across castles, courtyards, townhouses and gardens - there’s no better place to indulge in their arts. Taking place from the 8-18th of August, there’s performances catered to every taste and budget from Poetry Masterclasses to String Quartet and Chamber choir performances. Be sure to book tickets in advance if you want a taste of the extraordinary this summer.
Masters of Ale
The new Masters of Ale premium tour at the Smithwick’s Experience Kilkenny is the perfect way to quench your thirst for knowledge and discovery this summer. With tours running from Thursday – Saturday this is a wonderfully unique way to step into a summer’s weekend. On this experience you’ll journey through 300 years of brewing history uncovering the Smithwick’s family’s role in the evolution in Irish ale. Then, allow yourself to be guided through a sensorial masterclass where you’ll isolate the elements that make Smithwick’s so unique and indescribably tasty. Followed by an expertly poured pint, it’s a surefire way to kick off the weekend in style.
Kilkenny Outdoor Music Festival
On Saturday 6th July Castlecomer GAA Grounds will host a night of music and live entertainment – a sure highlight of the summer calendar in Kilkenny. Past acts have included Imelda May and Roisin O, Munroe and this year promises to be just as exciting with some of Ireland’s top music acts taking to the stage in Castlecomer. Festival goers can expect to enjoy sets from Ryan Sheridan, Paddy Casey, Kiera Dignam and DJ Josie among others. Tickets for the event are priced at €35 and a shuttle bus will be available to take ticket holders to the venue so all you need to worry about is enjoying the night.
Summer Art Fair at Mount Juliet Estate
In tandem with the Butler Gallery, the Mount Juliet Estate is hosting a Summer Art Fair this year which should be on every art lover’s Kilkenny itinerary. Taking place in the picturesque backdrop of the Mount Juliet Estate, on Sunday 7th July the estate will be taken over by a wave of artistic inspiration. Attendees can take part in drop-in sketching workshops hosted by the Butler Gallery along with talks by artists. All profits from the art fair will go towards the Butler Gallery which provides free access to art for everyone as well as supporting living artists and connecting them with audiences.