The festive season is upon us and County Kilkenny is buzzing with holiday spirit!
From historic landmarks adorned with twinkling lights to cosy festive markets, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in Kilkenny this December. The sounds of festive songs and the irresistible smell of Christmas treats fill the air across the county as everything from markets to workshops take place. It’s the time of year when Kilkenny becomes a winter wonderland and it is not to be missed.
To help you plan the ultimate Christmas visit to Kilkenny that’s packed with seasonal activities and family fun this December, we’ve put together a guide of all of the incredible things to see, do and eat across the county this festive season!
Festivals & Events
Yulefest Kilkenny
November 30th – December 21st
Yulefest Kilkenny (pictured) marks the beginning of the festive season in the Marble City and is one of the best loved Christmas festivals in Ireland. Kicking off with Santa’s arrival and the launch of Yulefest on the 30th of November. There’s plenty of fun to be had at Yulefest with the Christmas crafting workshops, shopping at the Yulefest Market stalls and the all-important Yulefest movie night.
Click here to view the full Yulefest Kilkenny event programme.
Santa’s Magical Village Castlecomer
November 29th – December 23rd
Santa and his elves return to Castlecomer Discovery Park for another magical year in their beautifully decorated wonderland. Visitors can stroll around the park with a hot chocolate and sweet treat in hand, buy the last of their Christmas presents from on-site retailers in the Craft Yard before they meet the man in red!
St. Canice’s Cathedral Christmas Tree Festival
December 5th – 9th
Experience the magic of the holiday season surrounded by a stunning array of creative and quirky Christmas trees at St. Canice’s Cathedral. This one-of-a-kind annual display is perfect for all ages. This unique collection is a result of community collaboration, with local groups, families and individuals invited to submit their creative Christmas trees made from any medium, in any shape or size. Visitors can participate by voting for their favourites in various categories.
Christmas Experience at Jurassic Newpark
23rd November – 23rd December
Get into the festive spirit at Jurassic Newpark with their Christmas Experience. Visit the big man himself and tell him your Christmas wishes. Get a special clearance pass into the Teddy Bear Department of Santa’s workshop! A fun-filled family day out awaits at Jurassic Newpark.
Nore Valley Park Santa Experience
1st – 24th December
Join the Nore Valley Park elves at MacDonagh Junction Shopping Centre for a magical meet and greet with jolly old Saint Nick. Make fun family memories and take home a present and photo to cherish your big day out! Santa’s grotto is opening to your furry friends on the 12th of December for a one-off event. Don’t miss out!
Avalon House Hotel Santa Experience
15th & 22nd December
Santa Claus is making a special stop-off at the Avalon House Hotel this Christmas. The Santa Experience includes a tasty buffet lunch, festive entertainment and an extra-special visit with the Claus’! Don’t forget to get your family photo taken to cherish the day.
Music & Arts
Cabaret Nights Christmas Crackers
27th – 30th November
Christmas comes early to Barnstorm Theatre Company, who showcase theatrical monologues and music in a cabaret setting. Prepare yourself for an entertaining evening filled with exciting local talent. Sit back, relax and enjoy the night, with a glass of mulled wine and festive treats.
December at the Watergate Theatre
10th – 22nd December
The Watergate Theatre is making Christmas cosy and magical with showings of the most iconic Christmas movie, Home Alone and Home Alone 2. Grown-ups can boogie the night away at ABBA Forever or sing-along with the stars of Irish Country Music at their festive bash!
Shopping
Mountain View Christmas Markets
23rd November- 29th December
Quickly becoming one of Kilkenny’s favourite events, the Mountain View Christmas Market returns on the 23rd of November. Get your Christmas shopping sorted while supporting Irish businesses. Grab some hot food from one of the many tasty food trucks on site and keep an eye out for Santy 😉
Made in Kilkenny Pop-Up Shop
30th November- 24th December
MADE in Kilkenny’s much-loved pop-up shop returns for another festive season. Shop local, shop Kilkenny this Christmas and support some amazing local craftspeople. The shop is open from November 30th to December 24th from 10am-6pm at 75/76 John St.
Looking for somewhere to stay this festive season, or for the perfect location for a Christmas get-together over dinner and drinks? Check out our festive stays guide and our food and drink directories:
– A to Z of Kilkenny’s Restaurants
– A to Z of Kilkenny’s Cafés
– A Guide to Kilkenny’s Pubs & Bars
Keep an eye on our event guide which is regularly updated with all of the festivities in Kilkenny!
