Popular Kilkenny attraction to host free music event this Culture Night
The Smithwick’s Barrel Yard is set for a night of live music and local food
Smithwick’s Experience Kilkenny’s Barrel will host a free Sundown Sessions event this Culture Night featuring an all-star line-up of talented local musicians and bands.
The historic landmark in the heart of medieval Kilkenny will be rocking this Friday, September 18 from 6pm until late as an evening of live music and great local food gets underway at The Barrel Yard.
Ignacio Peregrina, Manager, Smithwick’s Experience Kilkenny said they’re pulling out all the stops for the Sundown Sessions with the Barrel Yard All Stars, one of the few final Barrel Yard Sessions for 2026.
“We invite our regulars and those celebrating Culture Night to come along and enjoy a fantastic line-up of talented artists from Kilkenny showcasing indie folk, roots, country, blues, rock and Americana sounds,” he said.
“This will be a one night only Culture Night celebration of Kilkenny’s music scene. We’re honoured to have local heroes, Lincoln Skins, present the Barrel Yard All Stars. The Skins bring a fresh roots-inspired sound with old-time country and will be joined on the night by the cream of the crop of Kilkenny’s music scene.”
“Together, they’ll be blending genres and styles for this much anticipated live performance. We’re keeping it all local and Kilkenny favourites Blasta Wood Fired Pizza will be selling authentic Neapolitan-style pizzas throughout the evening,” he added.
The Sundown Sessions are among the final free live gigs at the Barrel Yard for this year. Sessions continue on September 19 and 20, 26 and 27 before a well-earned break until next season.
On Saturday, September 19, Damn Dirty Apes play from 5pm to 7pm. The following evening, Ryan Nugent will command the Barrel Yard stage. On Saturday, 26 September, Ramblin Rovers will play from 5pm-7pm and the season draws to a close for 2026 on Sunday, September 27 with Up She Flew from 4pm to 6pm.