Festivals in the Southeast

Kilkenny is famous for its social life and its festivals are an important part of that.

There's a wide variety of festivals on in Kilkenny and surrounding areas during the year, but here's a list of those happening in the city and throughout the county:

• The Gathering: Kilkenny - There are so many ways to get involved; whether it is organising family or clan gatherings; school or work reunions; sports competitions; community celebrations or business events - it’s about making sure everyone tells their family, friends and connections that 2013 is the perfect time to come to Ireland to join in celebrating the best of what Ireland has to offer.   kilkennytourism.ie
• TradFest Kilkenny - Saturday 16th and Sunday 17th March
  A feast of amazing traditional music, song and dance. Featuring free live traditional music, song and dance performances in Kilkenny Castle Park, Sean Nos singing workshops with Nell Ni Chroinin, Sean Nos dancing workshops with renowned Irish dancer Ger Butler, Lots of family fun at the colourful community parade on St. Patricks Day and much much more.    kilkennytourism.ie
• Barrow River Arts Festival -19 – 21 April. 
  Founded and curated by long time Irish residents, Swiss violinist Maya Homburger and English bass player Barry Guy, the Barrow River Arts Festival presents, in one packed weekend, a programme of classical music, free improvised jazz, theatre and visual art in two beautiful settings along the River Barrow in Counties Kilkenny and Carlow - Duiske Abbey and Borris House.
  www.barrowriverartsfestival.com/whats-on.html
• Smithwicks Kilkenny Roots Festival - 3- 6 May 2013. 
  Since 1998, The Kilkenny Roots Festival has attracted some of the finest names in the Americana canon.
  kilkennyroots.com
• Celebrating Faith in Ossory - 10 -12 May.
  Celebrating Faith in Ossory
  www.ossory.ie
• The Cat Laughs Comedy Festival - 30th May - 3rd June.
  With a world-class comedy programme blending the best in Irish and international talent with shows featuring renowned comic stars as well as upcoming talent.
  thecatlaughs.com
• International Gospel Choir Festival Kilkenny - 13 - 16 June
  The 2nd Kilkenny International Gospel Choir Festival.
  kilkennygospelchoirfestival.com