New Fire and Drum Spectacular announced
The official launch of the St Patrick’s Festival Kilkenny took place last night in partnership with Kilkenny Tradfest at a packed Paris Texas on Kilkenny’s High Street. The “BIG FESTIVAL IN A SMALL CITY” takes place from March 14th to 17th, 2026, throughout the city.
The festival was formally opened by the Cathaoirleach, Mary Hilda Cavanagh, who acknowledged the St. Patrick’s Day Parade Committee, Fáilte Ireland, local businesses, and all the volunteers whose work makes the festival possible. She commented, “Every March, Kilkenny comes alive with music, colour, creativity and community spirit, and this year’s four-day festival is shaping up to be another special event.
Kilkenny is a city that welcomes all, and we’re thrilled to welcome visitors from near and far to celebrate with us.”
Cllr. John Coonan, Mayor of Kilkenny City, commented, “St Patrick’s Festival Kilkenny has grown into a major four-day event, attracting visitors at a key time of year to Ireland’s medieval capital.
We are also delighted to welcome marching bands from Ohio, Illinois and Arizona to Kilkenny in the days running up to St. Patrick’s Day.
We are also honoured that George Candler will lead this year’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade here in Kilkenny. In a wonderful change of pace from his familiar role as M.C. on the Reviewing Stand, George will take pride of place as our Grand Marshal for 2026. His energy and connection to this festival will, I have no doubt, add greatly to what promises to be a fantastic celebration.
The 2026 programme offers something for families, communities and visitors of all ages, while showcasing Kilkenny’s heritage, creativity and renowned hospitality.”
Announcing… a Fire and Drum Spectacular
Festival organisers have announced special plans for a breathtaking fire and drum spectacular on the hallowed ground of Kilkenny hurling at UPMC Nowlan Park at dusk on Monday, 16th March. This unique flame-based show combines immersive, dynamic fire choreography with aerial acrobatics by the incredible Pyro Collective.
The evening begins with Kilkenny’s master percussionist, Jeremy Hickey, best known for his work as R.S.A.G (Rarely Seen Above Ground), with an exhilarating acoustic set.
The four-day festival programme brings together more than 80 events, including family and street entertainment, tours and workshops, plus festival favourites such as American marching bands, live music and theatre, and pop-up performances.
At the centre of the festivities is Kilkenny’s Parade Plaza and vibrant festival market, with face painting, children’s theatre, and surprise performances entertaining the little ones, while adults can enjoy local food and craft stallholders. The highlight of the festival is the Grand Parade on Tuesday, March 17th, with hundreds of performers, dancers, stilt walkers, puppeteers, jugglers, and local groups winding through Kilkenny’s medieval streets under the theme of “Together – Le Chéile.”
Speaking at the launch, Ciara Sugrue, Head of Festivals and Events at Fáilte Ireland, said:
“Fáilte Ireland is pleased to support St. Patrick’s Festival Kilkenny. Festivals and events like this showcase the very best of Irish culture, music, and entertainment, inspiring both domestic and international visitors to explore new destinations across the country. By investing in St. Patrick’s Festival Kilkenny, we’re strengthening Kilkenny’s position within Ireland’s Ancient East as a must-visit destination and helping to drive economic benefits for local businesses and communities across the county and wider region.”
Sister Festivals in the Marble City
The municipal celebration brings locals, visitors, artists, and international performers together, alongside its sister event, Kilkenny Tradfest, featuring over 100 trad legends and emerging artists, including acclaimed Irish musicians Mundy, Iarla Ó Lionáird, Cormac McCarthy, Aoife Ní Bhriain, Clare Sands, Emma Langford, Séamus and Caoimhe Uí Fhlatharta, Pádraig Jack and Band, plus many more.
Presented by Kilkenny County Council with support from Fáilte Ireland, St Patrick’s Festival Kilkenny is hailed as one of Ireland’s most spectacular celebrations of Irish culture and heritage, offering a unique experience this St Patrick’s weekend. The full programme is available from www.stpatricksfestivalkilkenny.com.
