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22 Oct 2025
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22 Oct 2025
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Pictured at the official launch at Kilkenny Castle is Enya joined by from left Sofia Khodabacksh and Zahra Khodabacksh (Irish Dancing World Champion). Photo: Dylan Vaughan
Kilkenny is one of six locations outside of Dublin identified by Fáilte Ireland as part of an initiative to position Ireland as the only place for overseas tourists to celebrate St Patrick’s Day.
Along with Cork, Killarney, Waterford, Sligo, and Limerick, Kilkenny has been selected to showcase Irish culture through their individual St Patrick’s Day celebrations. The local St Patrick’s Festival was jointly launched with Kilkenny Tradfest last night in Paris Texas, in the city centre. Mia Griffin and Enya Cox Dempsey were unveiled as this year's parade Grand Marshal and Junior Grand Marshal respectively.
Speaking at the launch, Ciara Sugrue, Head of Festivals and Event Fáilte Ireland said the organisation was pleased to support St Patrick’s Festival Kilkenny again this year, and looked forward to welcoming visitors from all over the world to celebrate the national holiday.
“Kilkenny’s rich heritage, vibrant cultural scene, and outstanding festival programming make it a key destination for visitors seeking an authentic and unforgettable Irish experience,” she said.
“Festivals and events are a key component of Ireland’s tourism offering and they provide unique and compelling reasons for a visitor to choose a destination. They also have the ability to drive footfall for local businesses, supporting jobs, and revenue generation.
“We are proud to work alongside Kilkenny County Council to bring this celebration to life and ensure that visitors from near and far can experience the magic of St Patrick’s festivities in the heart of Ireland's Ancient East.”
SUPPORT
Festival chair and Mayor of Kilkenny Andrew McGuinness thanked Fáilte for the support: “We are incredibly grateful for the support of Fáilte Ireland, whose backing allows us to elevate St Patrick’s Festival Kilkenny, and attract new visitors from across Ireland and beyond,” he said.
“Building on last year’s success, we look forward to welcoming even more visitors to Kilkenny in 2025.”
For the full line-up and more information, visit St Patrick’s Festival Kilkenny.
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