Brought to you by Discover Ireland
What better place to celebrate Irish storytelling traditions than in Kilkenny, Ireland’s medieval capital
Did you know that Ireland’s has some of the most gifted animators that the world has to offer?
In recent years we’ve gotten some massive international acclaim for animated films like Song of the Sea and The Secret of Kells.
It’s no surprise that Irish people are so good at this form of visual storytelling, when you consider the generations that passed down folklore through storytelling traditions.
We’ve gone from sharing folktales and legends by fireside to sharing them at festivals like this. The second year of Kilkenny Animated festival looks like the perfect excuse for a weekend break.
Speakers from across the globe will be visiting for an absolutely unmissable weekend on 4-6 October.
Kilkenny Animated schedule
The best of Irish and international artists committed to the art of visual storytelling have arranged an action packed schedule.
It all kicks off on the friday night with an opening night party, and a very special screened retrospective of the animation and game design work of the celebrated Kilkenny artist David OReilly,
First thing on Saturday morning, a cool event is happening in which participants walk around Kilkenny, sketching as they go.
This is followed by appearances from world renowned artists, and music by Kíla. The night will end with a 75 minute talk on the history of the iconic VIZ Comic from editor Graham Dury in Cleere’s Theatre Bar.
More talks will take place throughout the afternoon on Sunday 6 October, including a screening of Oscar-nominated short Late Afternoon with director Louise Bagnall.
See the full line up of events here.
Things to do in Kilkenny
There are lots of options for places to stay in Kilkenny over that weekend, brilliant hotels that are the perfect place to chill between talks. Pembroke Hotel Kilkenny is right at the centre of the action, with proximity to every venue.
The site has a history that’s integral to Kilkenny history. It was once a garage where race car driver George Statham built the car he raced against the world’s greatest in the Limerick Grand Prix. The hotel’s brilliant bar and restaurant is now named after him.
Alternatively the Kilkenny Hibernia also boats one of the best places to eat in Kilkenny, along with its luxurious rooms. They do great group deals if you’re getting a gang together for the weekend.
However, if you feel like venturing out a little further from the hotel for food, Paris, Texas is a great shout. It serves up potentially the best ‘American’ food in the city.
For pub grub, Kytelers Inn is the top spot. Ask the staff there about how the pub is haunted, they’ll show you all the photographic evidence to prove it! A little scare to prepare you for Halloween.
If you have a chance while you’re in town, why not drop into one of the many brilliant tourist attractions that Kilkenny has on show. Learn some more about that rich Medieval history at the Medieval Mile Museum, with a deadly selection of temporary exhibitions and cultural events.
If you’re in the mood for a casual walk around town, St Canice’s Cathedral & Round Tower is the oldest standing structure in Kilkenny and an interesting visit. Consider topping it off with a trip to the fantastic Smithwick’s experience for a brewery tour and tasting.
A festival makes your break, so head to head to our Discover Ireland festivals hub to discover even more options to make your break in Ireland something magical.
Brought to you by Discover Ireland
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