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Kilkenny County Council has unveiled its newest festival Kilkenny’s TOIL AND TROUBLE Festival. From October 28th to November 3rd, 2024, step back to 1324 and uncover the chilling story of Ireland’s first witchcraft trial.
Uncover the compelling story of Alice Kyteler, a wealthy woman charged with witchcraft and heresy by Bishop Richard Ledrede of Ossory, and the tragic fate of Petronella de Meath, the first person in Ireland executed for witchcraft.
Marking the 700th anniversary of these dark events, the festival will reveal the societal fears, power struggles, and personal stories behind this infamous trial.
Kilkenny’s TOIL AND TROUBLE Festival combines historical education with entertainment, offering engaging activities for the whole family.
The festival’s website, featuring artwork by the award-winning Cartoon Saloon from Kilkenny, provides details on all events before, during, and after the festival!
I am looking forward to the launch of this intriguing festival and hope that everyone will join us here in Kilkenny as we commemorate this significant chapter in Kilkenny’s history and immerse ourselves in the spells cast on society during the Kilkenny Witch Trials at ‘KILKENNY’S TOIL AND TROUBLE’ festival.
Deputy Mayor of Kilkenny Municipal District, Cllr. Joe Malone
Details of events taking place can be accessed on the Festival website.
(Photographs by Dylan Vaughan)