Kilkenny prepares for Santa's festive arrival at Yulefest launch
The Yulefest Christmas Market will also open for the season on the same day, with festive food, artisan crafts and gifts available from 11am to 8pm on the Parade, offering free admission and a packed programme
Kilkenny is getting ready to welcome Santa Claus in style as Yulefest Kilkenny 2026 officially launches later this month.
The man in the red suit will arrive on Saturday, November 28, with a magical afternoon of festive entertainment, family fun and the city’s much-anticipated Christmas lights switch-on.
Festivities begin at 2pm at Canal Square, where Santa, Mrs Claus and their elves will make a very special arrival by boat along the River Nore, before travelling through the medieval city on Santa’s City Cycle. The Yulefest Christmas Train will then escort them to Kilkenny Castle, with plenty of festive surprises along the way.
The celebrations will culminate in the official Yulefest launch and Christmas lights switch-on from 5pm.
Cathaoirleach of Kilkenny County Council Joe Malone will take to the stage and officially launch the 2026 Yulefest programme. Immediately after this launch Mayor Andrew McGuinness will address the audience and will perform the official lights switch on.
The Yulefest Christmas Market will also open for the season on the same day, with festive food, artisan crafts and gifts available from 11am to 8pm on the Parade.
With free admission and a packed programme of family-friendly entertainment, Santa’s arrival promises to be a wonderful start to the festive season in Kilkenny.