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
November 29th – December 23rd
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 29th of November. There’s plenty of fun to be had at Yulefest with the Christmas crafting workshops, shopping at the Yulefest Market stalls, vintage carousel rides, the Santa truck and so much more. This year, be wowed by the incredible light spectacle ‘Starlight’ by Luxmuralis at St. Canice’s Cathedral from the 14th – 21st December.
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! Sensory days take place on Friday 29th November and Thursday 11th December.
St. Canice’s Cathedral Christmas Tree Festival
December 4th – 8th
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.
Santa Experience at Jurassic Newpark
22nd 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’s Grotto
30th November – 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!
Music & Arts
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.
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
23rd November- 28th December
The Mountain View Market reopens on Sundays in the lead up to Christmas with the first market on the 23rd of November. Get your Christmas shopping sorted while supporting small Irish businesses, grab some hot food from one of the many tasty food trucks on site and keep an eye out for Santa!
Made in Kilkenny Pop-Up Shop
Dates to be confirmed
Shop Kilkenny this Christmas and support our incredible local craftspeople at the MADE in Kilkenny pop-up shop. Taking over the 75/76 John St for the festive season, the shop showcases award-winning local craft and design that will make a treasured handcrafted Christmas gift for a loved one.
Looking for the perfect location for a Christmas get-together over dinner and drinks? Check out our food and drink directories for inspiration:
– 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!
