Show summary Hide summary
Savour Kilkenny returns this October to mark its 20th edition, expanding into evening events tied to the harvest and Samhain. Backed by new funding from the national tourism body, organisers say the milestone year will broaden the festival’s reach while boosting local businesses across the city.
Funding and future plans
The festival has secured significant support from Fáilte Ireland through the Strategic Tourism Festival Investment Scheme for 2026–2028. Organisers say the grant will help sustain the event and allow for an expanded programme aimed at national and international visitors.
Raw sewage still discharged daily from 11 communities across Ireland
Going to Niall Horan’s Irish shows? What you need to know
Last year Savour Kilkenny drew nearly 75,000 attendees, and the festival is known for championing local producers and showcasing both established and emerging chefs via tastings and cooking demonstrations.
What’s new this year
This anniversary edition extends activity into the evenings to honour the harvest season and Samhain. Events will spread across Kilkenny’s landmarks and mix music, performance and immersive dining experiences.
- Samhain Medieval Fest at Rothe House
- Open-air Castle Park Concert
- Sounds of Samhain music series
The weekend programme includes about 90 food-focused events and closes with the Samhain Spectacle in Flame and Sound, featuring the band Kila. Chefs and personalities on the bill include Rachel Allen and Sophie Morris, among others.
Ger Mullally, of Savour Kilkenny, said: “Reaching our 20th anniversary is a moment of great pride for everyone involved in Savour Kilkenny. Thanks to Fáilte Ireland’s strategic investment, we’ve been able to expand our horizons beyond the traditional programme to appeal further to a national and international audience. Savour Kilkenny always creates an electric atmosphere while driving vital footfall for our local businesses during the October Bank Holiday Weekend.”
The festival runs from 22 to 26 October 2026. The full programme is available at savourkilkenny.com.
