What's happening for Culture Night in Kilkenny this year

Culture Night in Kilkenny this year will bring a lively evening of music, art, food and performance to venues across the county. Part of the national Culture Night initiative, the event allows people to explore local galleries, theatres, museums and community spaces, many of which open their doors for free.

This year's programme features a wide mix of activities, with something on offer whether you're after live music, hands-on workshops or a quiet look round a historic building.

Here are some of the events taking place in Kilkenny:

A line-up of performances and activities at The Parade will begin with interactive activities and songs for kids aged 3 and up. This will be followed by a drumming workshop led by RSAG, live band music by Seafall, and a promenade with the Maracatu & Global Dance Club. Afterward, the Unity Singers will perform choral music, then Oram Grace will do a DJ set and finally there will be a second promenade on Cortejo Real with the dance club.

At the Great Kitchen in Rothe House, there will be music sessions and "rírá agus ruaille buaille". Songs will be in multiple languages, including Gaeilge, Hungarian and German. This event is aimed at primary school children, but all ages are welcome to attend.

Kilkenny Castle will open its period rooms and exhibitions free of charge from 6 to 9 p.m. The 13th century castle is a symbol of the Norman Conquest and has been furnished in Victorian style.

At Murphy's Pub, any singer, poet, musician or dancer is welcome to showcase their skills. "Ceol, craic agus cairdeas" are promised.

At Hole in the Wall, Scattered Sessions will host two acts. First is Inni-K, a.k.a. Eithne ní Chatháin, a trad musician who has played at the National Concert Hall and Electric Picnic. Second are Michael Higgins and Oli Ryan, a duo who create experimental audiovisual media. The performances will be followed by conversations.

Culture Night is free to attend and runs from early evening until late, with most venues open between 5pm and 9pm unless stated otherwise. Some events may require booking in advance, so check with individual venues for details. For the full list of participating venues and events in Kilkenny, visit culturenight.ie.