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21 Oct 2025
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21 Oct 2025
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Bishop Ledrede reads the Red Book to Alice Kyteler
A spooky new festival has just been announced for Kilkenny this Hallowe'en.
Kilkenny County Council has unveiled the launch of Kilkenny's newest festival, 'Kilkenny's Toil and Trouble'. Discover the spells cast on society during the Kilkenny Witch Trials.
Taking place from October 28 to November 3, the event invites visitors to step back in time to 1324 and uncover the chilling tale of Ireland's first Witchcraft Trial.
Delve into the powerful story of Alice Kyteler, a wealthy woman accused of witchcraft and heresy by the Bishop of Ossory Richard Ledrede. Explore the tragic fate of Petronella de Meath, the first person in Ireland to be executed for witchcraft. By marking the 700th anniversary of these dark events, those attending the festival will dive into the societal fears, power struggles, and personal stories that shaped this infamous trial.
This festival offers a perfect balance of historical education and entertainment, with engaging activities for the whole family. The launch will also feature the unveiling of the festival's website featuring images designed by the world renowned and award-winning Cartoon Saloon based in Kilkenny, where visitors can find information on all the events leading up to, during, and after the festival.
“I am looking forward to the launch of this intriguing festival and hope that everyone will join us here in Kilkenny as we commemorate this significant chapter in Kilkenny's history and immerse ourselves in the spells cast on society during the Kilkenny Witch Trials at ‘KILKENNY'S TOIL AND TROUBLE’ festival," said Deputy Mayor of Kilkenny Joe Malone.
Details of events taking place can be accessed on the Festival website at https://kilkenny.ie
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