Kilkenny Arts Festival: A Festival Like No Other
Ten days of music, literature, theatre and visual art in the medieval city of Kilkenny every August. Why the Kilkenny Arts Festival is worth the trip.
If you ever visit Ireland in August, here is an event you should not miss. The Kilkenny Arts Festival brings out the liveliness and talent of Ireland, from electrifying performances by musicians to readings by poets and writers, all in the historic city of Kilkenny. It is one of the festivals in Ireland that draws visitors from all over the world.
It is not just the performances that make it special, but also the setting. A visit gives you the chance to see Kilkenny Castle, whose story goes back to the 12th century, as well as the city's old courtyards, townhouses, churches and gardens, several of which are used as festival venues.
Musical performances and other events
The Kilkenny Arts Festival runs for around ten days, and music is one of its highlights. Some of Ireland's finest musicians take the stage alongside international performers. If you have two left feet, you can enjoy the music while watching dance companies show off their talent, or head to a theatre performance, a reading or an exhibition instead.
Over the years the festival has attracted internationally acclaimed artists. Past performers have included Victoria de los Ángeles, Jordi Savall, Dawn Upshaw, Alfred Brendel, Joshua Bell and Nigel Kennedy, as well as pianists such as Sir András Schiff and Christian Blackshaw. Cross-genre collaborations with the Irish Chamber Orchestra have also been part of the programme.
What else to enjoy at the Kilkenny Arts Festival
Music is just one of the many things to enjoy. A few extras that make a festival visit memorable:
- good food in the city's restaurants, cafés and pubs
- friendly locals who are used to welcoming festival crowds
- picturesque medieval streets, lanes and buildings
- free events and street performances alongside the ticketed programme
Why you shouldn't miss it
Kilkenny is not Ireland's capital, but it is within easy reach of Dublin. The train or bus takes roughly an hour and a half, and by car it is a straightforward drive. Soon after arriving you can be admiring historic buildings and listening to great music.
The festival takes place every year and is well regarded by critics and audiences alike. If you are travelling to Ireland in August, the Kilkenny Arts Festival is a magical experience to cherish. Read more in What is the Kilkenny Arts Festival? and find out what to wear. Dates, programmes and prices change from year to year, so always check the festival's official website before you travel.
