The Final Draft > What is it Like to Live in Kilkenny?
What is it Like to Live in Kilkenny?
Living in Kilkenny in 2024 means being part of a dynamic environment with plenty to do, see and enjoy. Known as the Marble City, Kilkenny’s lifeblood stems from a few integral sources. A vibrant place full of culture, a deep appreciation for the arts, and community. Even the shortest visit to the home of Smithwick’s will give you a taste of the county’s rich history, but what is it like to live in Kilkenny today? Read on to find out…
Community
Kilkenny is a city with a tangible sense of community. In one of their editions, it was even voted ‘Friendliest city in Europe” by Conde Nast travel magazine. Being part of Kilkenny’s local communities means feeling like a part of something bigger than yourself. Family friendly restaurants offering delicious locally sourced food abound in the city which contributes to its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Kilkenny’s traditional pubs are a hub of storytelling, where laughter echoes over the pints shared by visitors and locals alike and most of the towns in Kilkenny still espouse that almost indescribable ‘old Ireland’ feel. Home to many Irish and international artists Kilkenny is also a place that has become a melting pot of artistic inspiration and appreciation, and these works are often widely exhibited within the community, making it a hub of creativity.
Culture
A full calendar of cultural events awaits those living in Kilkenny. For comedy fans the annual Kilkenny Cat Laughs festival, now in its 30th edition, takes place over a weekend in May promising a convivial atmosphere for comics and audience members alike. Music lovers can also rejoice as Kilkenny is a city with a love of all things music and this is reflected in a wide range of events. Kilkenny’s Roots Festival sponsored by Smithwick’s takes place on the 3rd-6th of May as a celebration of rockability, folk, blues music, pub gigs and more. On the contemporary side of things, Smithwick’s Barrel Yard Sessions is just the ticket providing a delightful fusion of free live music and delicious food from vendors around the world. For more information on 2024’s exciting Barrel Yard edition click here.
History
Living history is a term that couldn’t be more fitting to Kilkenny. Whether you’re nestled in the heart of the city among the backdrop of Canice’s Cathedral and Kilkenny Castle or in charming villages across the county, the past is interwoven with the landscape in a way that’s inescapable. Living in a county like Kilkenny means connecting with that history on a daily basis, and we all know there are few better ways to gain a sense of perspective and cultural insight than the sights and stories of the past. Take the story of Smithwick’s for example, espousing the tale of entrepreneurship and rich brewing history to be found within the pages of the past. Taking this tradition and making it come to life, the Smithwick’s Experience Kilkenny perfectly sums up the living history that continues to enchant visitors and residents daily.
Kilkenny is not just a city, but a vibrant tapestry woven with the threads of history, culture, and community. For those who call it home, it offers a unique blend of traditional Irish charm and contemporary cultural experiences. Whether you're engaging with the artistic community, enjoying a festival, or simply soaking in the historical sites, living in Kilkenny means embracing a lifestyle enriched with a sense of belonging and cultural depth. As Kilkenny continues to evolve, it remains a perfect example of how history and modernity can coexist in harmony, inviting both locals and visitors to be part of its dynamic story. If you’re seeking a place that feels like home yet stimulates with its cultural offerings, Kilkenny is waiting to welcome you.