Kilkenny Pride returns for 2026, with parade route and date confirmed
Expect a vibrant lineup of community events including visual arts, film, queer céilí, music gigs, comedy, education, and family-focused activities over the four-day festival
The Kilkenny Pride committee has confirmed the second year of the Kilkenny Pride Festival and Pride Parade will take place from July 23-26 in venues around the city and county.
Following the success of last year's festival and the city’s first Pride Parade, patrons can expect a vibrant lineup of community events including visual arts, film, queer céilí, music gigs, comedy, education, and family-focused activities over the four-day festival. The full programme is available on kilkennypride.ie.
The focal point of the festivities will be Saturday’s Pride Parade, under the theme ‘Express Yourself’, in conjunction with Kilkenny County Council. Last year, over 1,000 people turned out to participate and support Kilkenny’s first Pride Parade.
This year, once again, the parade will start at Kilkenny Castle, make its way through High Street, and continue on to Bateman’s Quay. A post-parade family-friendly free event at the Butler Gallery will follow, with music, food, drink, performances, and family activities.
"We are delighted to confirm Kilkenny Pride is back for 2026,” said Niamh Morgan from Kilkenny Pride.
"We are planning a celebration of diversity, inclusion and community that will bring people together from across Kilkenny and beyond. Pride is an opportunity to celebrate how far we have come, while continuing to champion equality, visibility and community for LGBTQ+ people and all minorities. We look forward to welcoming everyone to join us from July 23-26 for a programme of events, celebration and solidarity.”
As part of the 2026 lineup, Kilkenny Pride is delighted to announce its first Film Festival, to be held at the SET Theatre on July 23, aiming to promote LGBTQ+ film and talent. Individuals are invited to submit short films of no more than 10 minutes for consideration. The deadline for submissions is noon on June 26 via its website.
Get involved
Kilkenny Pride is seeking artists, acts, singers, bands, and DJs to play at the family fun day at Butler Gallery, sponsored by Walsh Toyota, on July 25 and for the night-time ‘Séid’ events, sponsored by State Street, over the festival weekend.
For the latest updates, programme of events, and volunteer opportunities, check the Kilkenny Pride Official Website or follow the Kilkenny Pride Instagram.