The Kilkenny Christmas markets (Yulefest Kilkenny) is one of the lesser-known Christmas markets in Ireland.
And, although it’s one of Ireland’s smaller markets, Yulefest packs plenty in, with live music, festive stalls, family events and light shows throughout December.
Below, you’ll find info on everything from when the markets take place to what events to look out for.
Some quick need to knows about the Kilkenny Christmas market 2026
Photos courtesy Yulefest Kilkenny via Fáilte Ireland
Although a visit to the Kilkenny Christmas markets is fairly straightforward, there are a few need-to-knows that’ll make your visit that bit more enjoyable.
1. Location + parking
The Kilkenny Christmas markets take place on The Parade in the heart of the city. If you’re driving, you can park in the Market Yard and the County Hall car parks.
2. Dates
If the Kilkenny Christmas Market follows the same schedule as last year, it is likely to run from Saturday, 28 November to Wednesday, 23 December 2026, operating mainly at weekends.
3. Opening times
The Christmas markets in Kilkenny tend to run Saturdays (11am–8pm) and Sundays (11am–6pm) from November 29th to December 21st. Two bonus market days took place last year on December 22nd and 23rd (11am–6pm).
4. Heaps of events
There’s a busy events schedule surrounding the Christmas market in Kilkenny, from the arrival of Santa and the Yulefest Bandstand to the Christmas Tree Festival and more.
Things to do in and around the Christmas market in Kilkenny
Photos courtesy Yulefest Kilkenny via Fáilte Ireland
Now that the Christmas market in Kilkenny has been confirmed, here’s what you can expect when it kicks-off:
1. Kick-off day with Santa
The Kilkenny Christmas Markets launches with Santa travelling by boat along the River Nore before making his way to The Parade to switch on the city’s Christmas lights.
2. The stalls at the Parade
As is the case with every Christmas market in Ireland, Yulefest Kilkenny boasts its fair share of stalls. Here, you’ll find local artisans tucked away in beautiful wooden huts selling everything from food and crafts to festive trinkets.
3. The Yulefest Movie Night
The much-loved outdoor cinema night returns each year but tickets sell out fast! It’s perfect for those looking for some pre-dinner entertainment, before tipping into one of the many restaurants in Kilkenny.
4. The Christmas tree festival
St. Canice’s Cathedral will be filled with quirky, creative Christmas trees made by local groups and families. Visitors can vote for their favourites (small entry fee).
5. Santa Truck at Yulefest
Santa and Mrs Claus roll into Kilkenny in their illuminated Santa Truck, all in aid of LauraLynn Children’s Hospice.
You can watch the truck as it drives through the city or visit it at its final stop on The Parade beside the Christmas Market, where children can step aboard and see Santa’s grotto.
6. The Live Music Stage
Each weekend on The Parade features performances from local musicians and family-friendly acts, adding a festive soundtrack to the market atmosphere.
7. “Starlight” at St. Canice’s Cathedral
A spectacular 360° light and sound show by Luxmuralis transforms the 800-year-old cathedral into an immersive art experience inspired by the Nativity.
Other Christmas markets in Kilkenny
Photos via Mountain View on FB
Outside the city, Mountain View in Ballyhale hosts a series of festive markets set in the scenic South Kilkenny countryside.
The markets feature handmade crafts, street food, and a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere – and they’re completely dog-friendly.
The Mountain View Night Market is a great countryside alternative to the busy city markets and a fine way to kick off the Christmas season in Kilkenny.
More Irish markets like Yulefest Kilkenny
If you’re spending Christmas in Ireland there’s plenty to see and do.
And, if the Christmas market in Kilkenny doesn’t tickle your fancy, there’s plenty of other markets dotted around Ireland to choose from:
- Dublin Christmas Markets
- Waterford Christmas Markets
- Cork Christmas Markets
- Wicklow Christmas Markets
- Galway Christmas Markets
- Belfast Christmas Markets
FAQs about the Kilkenny Christmas Markets
We’ve had a lot of questions over the last couple of days asking about everything from what’s on at Yulefest Kilkenny to whether or not it’s worth visiting.
In the section below, we’ve popped in the most FAQs that we’ve received. If you have a question that we haven’t tackled, ask away in the comments section below.
Does Kilkenny have a Christmas market?
Yes. Yulefest takes place on The Parade in the heart of the city over the course of December and boasts music, movies and stalls.
What are the Kilkenny Christmas market 2026 dates?
If the Kilkenny Christmas Market follows the same schedule as last year, it is likely to run from Saturday, 28 November to Wednesday, 23 December 2026, operating mainly at weekends.
Keith O’Hara has lived in Ireland for 35 years and has spent much of the last 13 creating what is now The Irish Road Trip guide. Over the years, the website has published thousands of meticulously researched Ireland travel guides, welcoming 40 million+ visitors along the way. In 2022, the Irish Road Trip team published the world’s largest collection of Irish Road Trip itineraries. Keith lives in Dublin with his dog Toby and finds writing in the 3rd person minus craic altogether.