The countdown to BikeFest 18th/19th May is officially on, and we’ve got a month full of thrilling events lined up just for you this May!
Thanks to the amazing partnership between Cycling Ireland and Kilkenny County Council, we’re bringing you a FREE, action-packed program filled with fun activities for everyone, regardless of age or ability.
*Booking is required on some events.
1st, 2nd &3rd
Learn To Cycle*
The Gaelscoil
Discover the joy of cycling with Cycling Ireland’s expert coaches! From balance bikes to
adaptive models, our sessions cater to all ages and abilities. Join us in a safe, inclusive
environment to enhance coordination skills while having a blast. Book your spot now! Click the
link to reserve your place.
● 4 to 5pm – Children aged 5 to 7 years +
● 5 to 6pm – Children aged 8 years +
Saturday 11th May
Pop-Up Bike Maintenance
The Market, The Parade @10am-2pm
Ensure your safety on the road with our essential bike maintenance tips and M-Check guide. Learn how to keep your bike in top condition and perform quick safety checks before each ride.
Wednesday 8th May
Bike Breakfast for Workplaces
Location: Arán on Barrack St. @From 9am – 10.30am
Drop in to discuss how you can encourage employees to embrace cycling. Learn more about the BOLT bike scheme for employers. Enjoy breakfast and morning coffee to kickstart your day!
Saturday 11th May
Introduction to Mountain Biking*
Castlecomer Discovery Park @10am-11.30am
Discover mountain biking with our 1.5-hour beginner session at Castlecomer Discovery Park. We provide bikes and helmets. Learn bike basics in a gravel area, then hit beginner trails with guided supervision. Join us for an adventure!
Saturday 11th May
Maintenance Workshop
Market Cross Shopping Centre @1 to 3pm
Join our hands on class to master bike maintenance and repairs in association with trailbikebody.ie. Anyone aged 16+.
Sunday 12th May
Kilkenny Historic Cycle Tour*
Sullivan’s Tap Room @ 2-3pm
Come and take a spin through historic Kilkenny with a brilliant tour guide filling you with great information! Suitability: Adults or teenagers who are comfortable cycling.
Tuesday 14th
Basic Bike Maintenance Workshop*
Sullivan’s Tap Room @ 7pm-8pm
Join our hands-on workshop for an introduction to bike maintenance and repair, perfect for beginners with no prior knowledge. Learn essential skills such as fixing punctures (tubeless and tubed), repairing chains, basic brake bleeds, and more. Our aim is for you to leave feeling confident in basic bike repairs and maintenance to keep you rolling smoothly. All materials are provided for a hands-on experience.
Mondays starting 13th May to 3rd June
Women on Wheels*
TJReids, Cillín Hill @ 6.45pm
“Rev up your cycling journey with Women on Wheels!
Join our 4-week build-up programme for women cyclists. Perfect for those eager to boost distance, refine skills, connect with fellow riders and finish with a celebratory spin. This programme is for those currently cycling at 20kph+. Ready to ride? Register now!” Book Here
Tuesday starting 14th to 11th June
Bike for Life – Adults Course*
County Hall @ 11am
Join our 5-week course perfect for those needing to brush up on cycling skills, recovering from injury or illness, or feeling nervous about road cycling. Book Here
Tuesday 14th
BOLT – Kilkenny’s Shared e-Bike Scheme(
Loughboy Library @ 11am
Learn how to download and use Kilkenny’s e-bikes. Our local cycling tutor will guide you on your first eBike journey following the talk. Book Here
Thursday 16th May
Pop-Up Bike Maintenance
The Market, The Parade @10am-2pm
Ensure your safety on the road with our essential bike maintenance tips and M-Check guide. Learn how to keep your bike in top condition and perform quick safety checks before each ride
Friday 17th – All Day
FREE TRIPS ON Bolt Bikes
Kilkenny County Council, in partnership with Bolt, are offering new or existing users up to two FREE 20-minute journeys on BOLT by using the discount code BIKEWEEK24
Friday 17th May
Introduction to Cycling*
Castlecomer Discovery Park @6pm-7.30pm
Introducing cycling for absolute beginners! Our session offers a supportive environment with gravel paths at Castlecomer Discovery Park. With bikes and helmets provided, you’ll receive instruction on bike operation, safety, and comfort. Then, enjoy a leisurely ride around the park’s gentle paths. Join us for a 1.5-hour introduction to cycling! Book Here
Saturday 18th May
Introduction to Mountain Biking*
Castlecomer Discovery Park @1.30pm-3pm
Discover mountain biking with our 1.5-hour beginner session at Castlecomer Discovery Park. We provide bikes and helmets. Learn bike basics in a gravel area, then hit beginner trails with guided supervision. Join us for an adventure! Book Here
Sunday 19th May
Basic Bike Maintenance*
Castlecomer Discovery Park @1.30pm-4.30pm
Join our hands on class to master bike maintenance and repairs in association with trailbikebody.ie Anyone aged 16+. Book Here
Our School Programmes
Join us for mountain bike sessions at our pop-up course in County Hall off Johns St throughout Bike Week. Contact us for more information, especially if you’re interested in organising sessions for your school. Let’s ride! activetravel@kilkennycoco.ie
Friday 24th May
Wild Flower Cafe Cycling Conversation
Butler Gallery @11.30am
Join us for coffee and conversations, reflecting on Bike Week and planning for the future. Connect with fellow cyclists and share your experiences and ideas in a relaxed atmosphere.
Keep an eye on our social @cycle_kilkenny @kilkennycoco
Additional events to be added.
Learn more at visitkilkenny.ie/bikefest
