Kilkenny is one of the most vibrant and creative counties in Ireland. It has a fantastic vibe of city-life mixed with old school Ireland. Like most counties in Ireland it has that village feel to it, with friendly and accommodating locals always willing to lend a hand. In addition to this, there is also quite a diverse international community throughout Kilkenny city and county. You will find a hugely varied and globally inspired selection of art, music, theatre, film and crafts all around Kilkenny.

Friendliest city in Europe

Just a few short years ago Kilkenny was voted the friendliest city in Europe and ninth friendliest city in the world by readers of Conde Nast travel magazine. Spend just one day in Kilkenny and you will see why. The marble city is as welcoming as they come, with its abundance of restaurants, historical venues and bustling nightlife, newcomers won’t have to go far to meet a friendly face that will instantly make you feel right at home.

Family life in Kilkenny

Kilkenny is a wonderful county in which to raise a family. There are tons of family friendly restaurants and cafes, diverse and exciting things to do and an abundance of beautiful green areas for play. Additionally, the standard of education is second to none, with excellent facilities and assistance for children and young adults.

Art

Kilkenny has a vibrant, thriving art and design scene. It is home to a massive variety of contemporary and classic galleries. The Butler Art Gallery is a contemporary art space that exhibits emerging and established artists, both Irish and international. The gallery also has an expansive collection of 20th century art. The Blackbird Gallery s one of Ireland's most prestigious commercial galleries showcasing the very best of Irish and international contemporary art. Kilkenny is also home to The National Craft Gallery which is Ireland's leading centre for contemporary craft and design.

Music

Kilkenny is a great place to visit if you’re looking for live music gigs. There is live music in Kilkenny’s vast selection of bars and pubs almost nightly. With everything from traditional Irish music to contemporary pop and rock, you won’t be short on somewhere to enjoy a drink and listen to great live music. In addition, Kilkenny’s Nowlan Park often plays host to legendary international artists on the Irish leg of their tours.

Theatre

Kilkenny is filled with wonderful options for theatre lovers of all ages from one end of the year to the next. Located in the heart of Kilkenny City, The Set Theatre have been keeping audiences in the South East entertained since 1993 with local, national and international theatre productions. For younger audiences, Barnstorm Theatre Company creates and presents quality theatre for, and with children, young people and adults.

Film

Kilkenny has a thriving film scene, it is home to Subtitle European Film Festival, the only film festival that celebrates popular subtitled European films. For the younger generation you’ll find Young Irish Film Makers. YIFM run programmes in filmmaking and animation for young people aged 9 – 25 years across Ireland. They work with young people to develop their creativity, talent and life skills, delivering workshops that put them in the driving seat of their creative future.

Photography

Kilkenny is home to several photography galleries and exhibitions. From stunning exhibitions in Butler Gallery to like-minded enthusiasts in the Kilkenny Photographic Society, there is something for everyone of all levels of appreciation.

Comedy

Kilkenny is home to a vivacious comedy scene. With renowned festivals such as Kilkenny Cat Laughs festival, which showcases both the cream of Ireland comedy and some of the best comedy from around the world and Kilkenomics Festival the world’s first economics and comedy festival, which brings together some of the world’s leading economists, financial analysts and media commentators with some of the funniest, sharpest stand-up comedians, it’s a laugh a minute here in the Marble City.

Festivals

There is a massive array of festivals that take place throughout Kilkenny each year. The festival calendar is filled with everything from bustling Christmas festivals, delicious culinary fairs, stunning art and film events and everything in between.