Discover seasonal flavours and festive atmosphere at the Barrel Yard, Smithwick’s Experience Kilkenny.
This Halloween, step into the heart of Kilkenny’s haunting legends and seasonal charm at the Barrel Yard, Smithwick’s Experience Kilkenny. As part of the Home of Halloween programme, we’re celebrating autumn with a limited-edition beer launch and two nights of live music, all set against a backdrop of medieval mystery and festive décor.
Live Music at the Barrel Yard
Join us for two unforgettable nights of live music, seasonal brews, and Halloween vibes. The Barrel Yard will be transformed with autumnal and Halloween-themed décor—think hay bale seating, hops, barley, pumpkins, and flickering lights. A local food truck will be on-site both nights to keep guests fuelled and festive. This event combines local heritage, seasonal flavours, and live entertainment in a uniquely Kilkenny setting. It’s a celebration of Samhain, storytelling, and community—perfect for locals and visitors alike.
Bad Moon Blues Band
Date: Friday, October 31st
Time: 6–8 PM
Location: Smithwick’s Barrel Yard
Experience raw energy and soulful sound as Bad Moon Blues Band takes the stage. This powerhouse quartet delivers a gritty blend of blues, rock, and rhythm—perfect for the season when shadows grow longer and Halloween spirits stir. Expect fiery guitar riffs, deep grooves, and vocals that echo through the autumn air.
The Broken Spokes
Date: Saturday, November 1st
Time: 5–7 PM
Location: Smithwick’s Barrel Yard
Get ready for a foot-stomping, soul-lifting night with The Broken Spokes, Kilkenny’s honky-tonk heroes. Their high-octane blend of blues, rock, and southern swagger brings a unique energy to the Halloween weekend. With twangy guitars and driving rhythms, they’ll have the Barrel Yard dancing into the night.
Beer Launch: Grey Friary – Spiced Autumn Ale
ABV: 6.3% | Red-Brown Ale | Limited Halloween Edition
Inspired by the shadowy tales of Kilkenny’s medieval past, Grey Friary is a bold seasonal ale brewed exclusively for Halloween. This rich red-brown ale features warming notes of pumpkin spice, cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove, capturing the essence of autumn in every sip.
With a robust 6.3% ABV, it’s full-bodied and malt-forward, offering a smooth, spiced finish perfect for crisp evenings and candlelit conversations. Available only at the Smithwick’s Experience Kilkenny, this limited release celebrates the spirit of Samhain in Ireland’s most haunted city.
