St Patrick’s Day events in Kilkenny 2025
St. Patrick's Festival Kilkenny 2025 is set to be a vibrant celebration of Irish culture, music, and community spirit. Taking place from March 14th to 17th, the festival offers a diverse range of events and activities suitable for all ages. Here's a glimpse of what to expect:
Festival Highlights
St. Patrick’s Day Parade: The centrepiece of the festival, the parade is scheduled for Monday, March 17th, at 1:30 PM. This year's theme, "Bí Beo, Bí Linn" ("Be Alive, Be With Us"), invites everyone to immerse themselves in the festivities as colourful floats and performers march through Kilkenny's medieval streets.
Museum of the Moon
This year, we are very excited to have The Museum of the Moon a part of St Patricks Day Festival in Kilkenny. The Museum of the Moon, a large-scale installation, will dominate the cathedral from March 10th to 29th, dramatically suspended three metres from the ground above head height. The luminous artwork features detailed NASA imagery of the lunar surface. You will find a schedule of events and tickets here.
Live Music and Performances: Experience a rich lineup of musical acts, including performances by renowned Irish band Kíla. The festival also features American marching bands. Enjoy Sharon Shannon as she performs under the spectacular Museum of the Moon at St.Canice’s Cathedral on the 14th of March.
On the 16th of March at 2.30pm, St Canice’s Cathedral will welcome Bay Port High School all the way from Green Bay Wisconsin, USA. This will be a performance of exciting orchestral music by Percy Grainger, Malcolm Arnold and John Williams. This is a FREE event.
Join us on St Patricks Day, the 17th of March at St Canice’s Cathedral for Irish music and dance with Music Generation Kilkenny under the Museum of the Moon! This is a Free event from 3.30pm!
Family-Friendly Activities: The festival ensures fun for all ages with street entertainment, face painting sessions and so much more. Make sure to check out the new metal runbbing station at St Canice’s cathedral as well as the treasure hunt with Milo and Rua.
Festival Market and Funfair: From March 14th to 17th, enjoy a bustling market featuring local crafts and food stalls. Thrill-seekers can take a ride on the Big Wheel, Helter Skelter, or the Vintage Carousel, all located on The Parade Plaza in the heart of Kilkenny.
Plan Your Visit
With a mix of free and ticketed events, it's advisable to plan ahead. Some events are already in high demand, so early booking is recommended to avoid disappointment. For detailed schedules, ticket information, and updates, visit the official St. Patrick's Festival Kilkenny website here.
Join the festivities in Kilkenny this March and be part of a celebration that beautifully blends tradition with contemporary entertainment.
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