Yulefest brings the magic of Christmas to Kilkenny

Yulefest Kilkenny is delighted to host an array of local musical talent at the Yulefest Market with performances from choirs, groups and solo artists throughout Christmas week!

Each day will see a variety of performances on the Bandstand featuring Ali Comerford, Alchemy, Music Generation Kilkenny, The Hit Machine, and many more.

The Victorian-inspired pop-up Bandstand, manufactured in West Cork, is a beautiful addition to the Parade and provides the perfect place for our Yulefest gigs.

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Expect seasonal cheer, choral arrangements, festive music and Celtic drummers as night falls over the Yulefest Market and twinkling lights dance across Kilkenny Castle.

The Yulefest Market is a boutique, open-air Christmas Market in the heart of historic Kilkenny offering free live music on the Bandstand, great food and coffee, and arts and crafts in a stunning location with Kilkenny Castle as a backdrop.

This free-to-visit market is open from December 20 to December 23. On Friday evening, a dazzling Yulefest Fireworks Display will take place in the skies above Kilkenny Castle. This creative display of truly spectacular art in the sky will be visible above the Market, where you can watch Peony, Chrysanthemum and Dahlia shells coupled with multi-shot barrages and roman candles light up the skies of the Medieval City!

These high-quality fireworks have been chosen for their vibrant colours and lasting magical effects in a show that has been uniquely designed to give the best possible experience to our Kilkenny audience.

The Yulefest Market sees the return of over 40 stalls to the Parade with a mixture of craft, art and design along with a variety of hearty prepared food options, delicious desserts and artisan food products. At the market there are find local artisans and
craftspeople showcasing their wares in beautifully-constructed wooden chalets, right next to Kilkenny Castle and its parklands.

Come along to the Parade to enjoy the festive atmosphere, try some tasty food and explore the stalls where you can
buy directly from local makers!

Yulefest Festival Director Marian Flannery said “Last year was our first year of the Yulefest Market and we’re delighted to see how much it has grown. Traders have reported brisk business and it’s been fantastic to see so many people come
into the city to enjoy the festive atmosphere. Businesses and venues across Kilkenny have programmed gorgeous events which all add to the Christmas offering in Kilkenny, making Kilkenny the perfect destination for Christmas shopping and
enjoyment. I’d like to continue to encourage people to shop locally this year and to visit yulefestkilkeny.ie to discover all convivial events. Come and join us this festive season to experience Christmas Magic in Kilkenny!”

Yulefest Kilkenny is programmed, produced and marketed by Kilkenny County Council.