Yulefest Christmas Market
Set against the backdrop of Kilkenny Castle, the market features charming wooden huts offering seasonal treats and handcrafted local gifts. Visitors can stroll through the stalls, soak up the festive cheer, and enjoy live music and family-friendly entertainment. Areas are also available to sit down and relax while enjoying food and treats.
Nov 28 – Dec 23, 2026 All ages Free entry.
See more Christmas events near Kilkenny City
Plan Your Visit
Hours
Saturdays: 11am - 8pm; Sundays: 11am - 6pm; Christmas week: 11am - 7pm. Specifically, Tuesday, December 22: 11am – 7pm; Wednesday, December 23: 11am – 6pm.
Food & Drink
Seasonal treats are sold at the market, and visitors can enjoy them in the available seating areas.
Parking
Parking in Kilkenny.
Location
Tips & Advice
- Visit on a weekend for live music and family-friendly entertainment, which are featured each weekend.
- Use the market's seating areas to pause between browsing the huts and enjoy your seasonal treats.
- Arrive on opening day, November 28, if you want to see Santa’s arrival as part of the market launch.
- Check the weekend schedule before setting out: Saturday hours are 11am–8pm, while Sunday hours are 11am–6pm.
- Bring comfortable shoes for browsing the wooden huts, and allow time to wander and look for handcrafted local gifts.
Special Events & Promotions
- Free entry.
- Santa arrives for the market opening on November 28.
- The market features live music and family-friendly entertainment each weekend.
- Festive markets also run Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday of Christmas week.
Links & Contact
Run by Kilkenny County Council
Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide, not the organizer of this event. For tickets, entries, vendor spots or questions, contact the organizer directly through their website.
Frequently Asked Questions
What can I browse at the market?
Wooden huts offer seasonal treats and handcrafted local gifts.
Is there anything for families to enjoy?
Weekend entertainment is family-friendly, and the market offers live music.
Can I sit down with food or a drink?
There are places to sit and enjoy festive treats.
Is there entertainment every day the market is open?
Live music and family-friendly entertainment are featured each weekend.
Where can I find parking information?
Kilkenny’s visitor information includes a parking section.
Browse Christmas in Kilkenny
Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly. Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide and isn't affiliated with the events we list.