Eamonn Langton has been awarded the Freedom of the City of Kilkenny at a special ceremony held on Monday 8th June 2026 in the Set Theatre, Langton’s Hotel.
This is the highest honour the city can give, recognising people who have made an outstanding contribution to Kilkenny. Eamonn Langton was honoured for his huge impact on the city’s hospitality, cultural life, and community. Through Langton’s, he has helped put Kilkenny on the map as a welcoming, lively, and creative place to live and visit.
The event was attended by Elected Representatives, Community Representatives, family and friends, and guests from across the city and county. Mayor of Municipal District of Kilkenny City, Cllr. John Coonan in proposing the motion at the Special Meeting of the Municipal District said: “Eamonn joins a highly exclusive group of Freemen, taking his rightful place alongside former presidents and legendary figures such as Eamon DeValera, Mary McAleese, Lady Desart, Brian Cody, and Eddie Keher. We honour a man whose vision helped shape the modern city, whose generosity played a pivotal role in our cultural and sporting life, and whose loyalty to Kilkenny has never, ever faltered.”
Cllr. Andrew McGuinness seconded the motion, stating: “I am proud to second this motion. Eamonn Langton has made an exceptional contribution to Kilkenny through his lifetime, not just through his business success but through his support for the arts, community events and the life of the city. This honour is richly deserved and reflects the high regard in which he is held by people across Kilkenny.”
Mr. Langton on receiving the Freedom of the City said: “To receive the Freedom of the City is a huge personal honour for myself. As a proud Kilkenny man, it ranks as one of the greatest achievements of my life.”
The Freedom of the City has only been awarded on rare occasions. Previous recipients have included distinguished figures from the worlds of public service, sport and the arts, making this a very special honour. The ceremony marks a proud moment for Kilkenny and celebrates a lifetime of contribution to the city.
