The Kilkenny Rhythm and Roots Festival is held on the first weekend in May every year. There are over 80 shows in 30 venues throughout the medieval city, featuring rhythm and roots artists from Ireland, Europe, USA and Canada. Full details of acts appearing are on the website, www.kilkennyroots.com . The 2009 festival takes place from 1st to 4th May and full details will be posted on the festival website. For accommodation go to www.kilkennytourism.ie.

Kilkenny Arts Festival (Ireland's longest running arts festival) will take place between 7 and 16 August 2009. For 10 days every year, the beautiful medieval city is transformed with a huge variety of different artistic strands: Visual art, Classical music, Theatre, Dance, Literature, Poetry, Traditional Irish Music, Jazz and World music, Craft, Street spectacle and Children's events.

Most events are held in Kilkenny's magnificent heritage buildings that are all located within short walking distance of each other. This coupled with the intimate nature of the city help create a real carnival atmosphere.

Many events are free and the ticketed events are very good value. To get a flavour of what it is all about check out: 2008 Kilkenny Arts Festival highlights. For more information visit: Kilkenny Arts Festival website

For the months of June and July, Ceoltoiri Kilkenny will provide summer entertainment of traditional Irish music, song and dance on Wednesday nights 8.30pm. in the unique setting of  the Parade Tower, Kilkenny Castle,Kilkenny.

An Emigrants Tale by Martin Murray, features live music, dancing and song and story tellers every Tuesday night (June - September) at Langtons. Dinner at 7pm - 7:15pm, show starts at 8:30pm.