Stacked against the wall between the Methodist Church and the Regent House on William Street, at the start of the day, stood chairs, tables, gazebos, and decorations waiting to be arranged.
Within a short space of time, members of the church, local residents, and volunteers transformed the church car park into a warm and welcoming gathering space, complete with layers out tables, bunting, balloons bobbing in the breeze, and gazebos for shelter from the sun.
A thoughtfully placed wicker basket filled with suncream sat proudly nearby.
Well attended
Around 40 people attended, including visiting Methodist church of Ireland president Rev. Alan Wardlow.
During the day plates of sandwiches and savoury dishes appeared, followed by sweet treats, homemade cupcakes, and flapjacks.
Six-year-old Hugh said his favourite part of the day was the raspberry Eton mess.
Children enjoyed their own designated corner featuring arts and crafts, stone painting, and specially printed Street Feast colouring sheets, while others played tennis and football against the church wall.
Rev. Katherine Kehoe said: “Something really special happens when people gather around a table — conversations begin, friendships grow, and community spirit is born.”
The local organising committee were residents James and Amanda DeBurca and church members Edwin Harper and Jill Callanan.
“Street feast is such a great initiative and as a family we had wanted to organise one on our street. It’s a fun way for neighbours to meet up outside their daily routines while swopping fun stories and food,” said James.
William Street resident Rachel added: “Street Feast is when I can get to know my neighbours and spend some time chatting with people I often see but don't know very well.
Nine-year-old Ethan added: “I think it was really well organised and that the content it had in it was really good and enjoyable. And I personally had a lot of fun and I think it was a great jolly time.
"And it was also nice of the Church and community to set it all up and organise it.”
A special thank you to Lyla for the amazing raffle prizes, and their chef, has already some exciting ideas for next year’s event.
Thank you also to Lidl for providing vouchers that helped put food on the table for everyone to enjoy.
The organisers would also like to thank Kilkenny County Council for their grant support, and Kilkenny Methodist Church for the kind use of their grounds at the top of William Street.
The group has also created William Street Facebook and Instagram pages to celebrate the street’s history, share local stories, and highlight current events and community activities. And of course next year’s street feast!
1. members from the Methodist church, including Edwin and Joy harper, Geraldine and Anton Scheel, Rev. Katherine Kehoe, and Rev. Alan Wardlow (president of the Methodist Church in Ireland)
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2. James and Amanda DeBurca with friends from Black Mill street.
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3. James, Amanda and Ella DeBurca outside their home on William street
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4. Some of the residents from the street
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