Galleries
Signs of another world
PM O’Sullivan Derek Dooley knew olden voices. Just the way for him, a Danesfort native. “I grew up with my grandparents in The Sevenhouses area,” Dooley explains. “John Connolly and Liz Shea. That was my home house, in Graigue Lower. Granddad was born in 1906 and Granny was born in 1916. They were both from …
Romantic Success at Connolly’s RED MILLS Day
Last Saturday, 14th February, Gowran Park played host to a spectacular edition of Connolly’s RED MILL Day successfully blending high-octane National Hunt racing with a romantic Valentine’s Day flair. As a cornerstone of the Irish racing calendar for over 40 years, this fixture once again proved exactly why it remains a premier social and sporting destination for fans across …
The choice to step forward into growth or back into safety as Lake present The Weir
‘Tell me a story; tell me a story; tell me a story before I go to bed’ By Willie Egan Photos by Ken McGuire Methinks this line from an old nursery rhyme might be a good way to introduce an article about The Weir by Conor McPherson, the current offering from Kilkenny’s Lake Productions. For …
Kilkenny Karate Club Claim Medals at Major Championships in England
The Budo Martial Arts Centre, Kilkenny, has returned home with medals and memorable achievements following a strong showing at the Japan Shotokan Karate Association GB & Ireland Championships, held recently in England. The championships attracted karate competitors from across Great Britain and Ireland. With a high standard of judging and experienced athletes in every division, …
Davy Holohan – Reflections on a Life
I had many interactions with Davy Holohan. Our friendship began during innocent schooldays and remained constant as we navigated life. On a regular basis, over cups of black coffee, we would chat, discussing world affairs and the mundane frivolities of life. We occasionally disagreed but were never disagreeable. Regularly, I would meet Davy as he …
The Weird World of The Weir
In Conor McPherson’s play The Weir, being presented by Lake Productions, we are introduced to stories about fairies, local folklore, and the supernatural, allowing us to explore themes of isolation, tradition and modernity, and the human need for connection. The Kilkenny Observer contacted Dr Stiofán Ó Cadhla for his take on the subject. By: Dr …
GOFFS THYESTES CHASE 2026
The 2026 Thyestes Chase once again underlined why it is regarded as one of the most prestigious and demanding handicap chases on the National Hunt calendar. Staged at Gowran Park amid the usual tough January conditions, the race provided excitement and high-quality competition throughout, with a strong line-up of experienced stayers guaranteeing a thorough test …
MUCKALEE LADIES CELEBRATE IN STYLE
The Muckalee Ladies Football Club recently held a fantastic celebratory dinner dance, marking a hugely successful season and bringing together players, management, supporters, and friends of the club for a memorable night. The event took place in a warm and welcoming atmosphere, filled with pride, laughter, and a strong sense of community spirit that reflects …
LORETO KILKENNY ANNUAL ACADEMIC AWARDS 2025
Photo Credit Tom Beirne We at Loreto Kilkenny were delighted to welcome back our past pupils who achieved over 550 points in the 2025 Leaving Certificate to our annual Academic Awards ceremony, held in December. It was a wonderful occasion to celebrate the exceptional academic achievements of these former students, whose dedication, resilience and commitment …
A powerful night of music in a breathtaking setting
The Dublin Gospel Choir & Band celebrate 30 years with a very special concert in St Canice’s Cathedral, Kilkenny, on Saturday, 28 February 2026. For the first time ever, the choir brings their full live band and signature sound to one of Ireland’s most iconic cathedrals. Expect an uplifting mix of gospel, soul, pop, and …
