Galleries
International gathering for annual Fáilte Isteach Awards
There was a truly international gathering at the Fr. McGrath Centre recently, for the annual Fáilte Isteach English Awards, as Mayor Andrew McGuinness was warmly welcomed to do the honours. Usually this ceremony is held in City Hall, however, this year, due to ongoing refurbishments there, the Mayor made the short journey to the Butts …
Leinster Senior Hurling Final 2025 Kilkenny 3-22 Galway 1-20
Novel late opening proves successful for West Street reading
Jbsphotoskilkenny “There are little gems around us that can hold glimmers of inspiration”. So said American writer Richelle Mead. The Book and Coffee shop on William Street being a case in point. Apart from selling books, tea, coffee and some lovely nibbles, the shop also regularly hosts readings, music gigs and open mic’ nights. And …
Billy Burke enjoyed a distinguished hurling career
By Liam Burke Billy Burke first rose to prominence with the Kilkenny senior hurlers when he was asked to play in a tournament game against Clare in Ennis in early 1934. Following his display, he soon became a Kilkenny regular until he retired after Kilkenny’s defeat to Tipperary in the 1945 All-Ireland final. Billy who …
Progress and challenges as exhibition portrays Travellers’ lives
Gypsy Ray (1949-2020), originally from the USA, lived and worked in County Kilkenny since 2000. Her rich artistic practice included photography, drawing and teaching. A native of Illinois, USA, Gypsy Ray studied drawing and photography at the University of Iowa, later receiving her Masters Degree in photography from Goddard College. Most of her USA based …
Loreto Kilkenny Secure Spot in FAI Schools All-Ireland First Year Soccer Cup Final
Loreto Kilkenny has qualified for the FAI Schools Soccer All Ireland 1st Year Cup Final on Thursday, May 22nd. This talented bunch of players have come through 6 knockout games to win the Leinster Schools section, which was made up of 64 teams. They have now qualified for the All-Ireland decider after defeating St Columbas …
Clear, Hold, Build is launched at James Stephen’s military barracks
Photos by Pat Shortall There was only one place where the book launch could take place. ‘Clear, Hold, Build’ – How the Free State won the Irish Civil War was launched at the Officer’s Mess at James Stephen’s barracks in Kilkenny. Reminders of the foundation and life story of Irish army life bedecked the walls. …
125 West Street launched at Club House
Recently, The Kilkenny Observer attended the launch of Willie Egan’s eagerly anticipated novel, 125 West Street. The ballroom of the Club House Hotel was packed to capacity as family and friends of the author turned out to support the Mullinahone born writer. From a theatrical perspective, the Club House holds a unique place in the …
Being a Christian is fundamentally about embracing our head, hands and heart
Homily of Bishop Niall Coll at Mass for Pope Francis RIP, St Mary’s Cathedral, Kilkenny My phone started ringing within minutes following media reports of the death of Pope Francis on Easter Monday. Even though he has been ill, his death came as a shock to most of us. Immediately, a media statement had to …
ANZAC Day at Kilkenny Peace Park
Photos: Pat Shortall The sun shone as over 100 people gathered at Kilkenny’s Peace Park. Representatives from Australia, Turkey and New Zealand were in attendance, as were people from many Irish counties. Also present were various politicians. At 16.30 hours, Commandant Larry Scallan assumed his position. A long whistle sounded, and proceedings got underway. It …
