Growing Up with the Slíoga of Kildare

What: The talk explores the deep-rooted cultural belief in the otherworldly. In traditional Irish culture, the sióga were not cute, winged Disney characters, but powerful, complex beings shared through generations of oral history.

📍Where: Education Centre, Old Parochial House, Friary Rd, Co.Kildare R51KN66

📅When: 4thNovember 2026

🕢@ 8.00pm-9.00pm

Description: Hosted by the Cill Dara Historical Society, the evening features renowned Irish storyteller and visual artist Steve Lally. He will delve into the magical world of the sióga (the fairies) and the rich oral folklore traditions specific to County Kildare

The speaker, Steve Lally, moved to the Kildare countryside as a child and spent his life immersed in monster stories, local ghosts, and Lilywhite legends. His talk will weave together historical folklore and personal artistic interpretations of how these fairy traditions shaped rural life, protecting old monuments, raths, and fairy hawthorn trees across the county.

More Information/Booking

If you are planning to attend, it is recommended to arrive by 7:15 PM for the pre-talk "Cuppa & Chat" to meet other local history enthusiasts. Talk Starts at 8PM

😈Practical Magic Halloween Party🥂🍹

🕷️What: There’s a little witch in all of us.. Gather your Coven for a midnight margarita at Ireland’s most filmed pub

📍Where: Kilteel Inn, Kilteel, Co.Kildare

📅When: October 31st 2026 🕢@9.00pm

Description: Step back in time this Halloween for an unforgettable evening at the historic Kilteel Inn. As Ireland's most filmed pub—and one with plenty of its own ghost stories—it provides the perfect setting for a magical gathering. This year, we are taking inspiration from the beloved film Practical Magic to bring you a night of charm, community, and festive cheer.

Whether you are a lifelong local or visiting the area for the first time, you are warmly invited to gather your close friends and join the fun. Here is what we have in store for the evening:

• A Festive Welcome: Enjoy a complimentary glass of bubbly prosecco as you arrive to set the mood.

• Themed Refreshments: Sip on specially crafted margaritas inspired by the magic of the silver screen.

• Live Local Music: Dance the night away to live music from local favourites The Locals, alongside plenty of lighthearted entertainment.

🎭 Dress code: Witchy, 90s Boho Chic, favourite magical duo

More Information/Booking

Cost €20 Tickets Available on Eventbrite link below

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/practical-magic-halloween-party-tickets-1998999444149?aff=ebdssbdestsearch

The Last Witch Bridget Cleary🧙‍♀️🎃

What: Blending folklore, land politics and history, the performance explores how fear and superstition can take hold within a community. At its centre is Bridget herself – reclaimed from myth and retold with clarity and humanity.

📍Where: Riverbank Arts Centre, Main Street, Newbridge, Co.Kildare.

📅When: Saturday 31st October 2026 @🕥 8.00pm-9.15pm

Description: Step back in time with us for a deeply moving evening of theatre as we welcome actress and playwright Eve O’Mahony to our stage.

• The Story: A gripping solo performance based on the tragic, real-life events of 1895 in County Tipperary.

• The Legend: Often remembered as Ireland’s last witch burning, the play explores the extraordinary story of Bridget Cleary.

• The Context: Discover the powerful mix of ancient folklore, local superstitions, and social tensions that led to this historic event.

The Last Witch Bridget Cleary is an intimate, thought-provoking piece of storytelling that invites us all to look closely at our shared past and see how its echoes still shape our world today. Whether you are a history enthusiast or simply love great drama, this performance promises to stay with you long after the curtains close.

More Information/Booking:

Cost: €18 – €20

https://riverbank.ticketsolve.com/ticketbooth/shows/873664246/events/128650415/seats?zone=Auditorium

🕷️Halloween Fancy Dress Parade🎃👻

What: Athy's main free annual Halloween celebration takes place on October 31st starting at 6:30 PM, hosted by the Athy Town Promoters.

📍Where: Nelson Street, Town Centre, Athy, Co.Kildare

📅When: October 31st 2026 🕢@ 6.30pm

Description:🧙‍♀️

🧟‍♀️ 🧟‍♂️Fancy dress parade and best-dressed competition.

Pumpkin carving competition.

Laser light show and special drum performances.

Best Window Display competition for local businesses.

Cost: Free family-friendly event.

The Silken Thomas Players Present Frankenstein

What: A Halloween (Story) Play

📍Where: The Courthouse, Kildare Town

📅When: October 31st 2026 @ 4.00pm-7.00pm

Description: Three performances on Saturday 31st @

• 4.00pm

• 5.30pm

• 7.00pm

More Information/Booking:

Note: Flashing lights and loud noises

Cost €5

Contact Noreen @ 0872944110

Stories From The Sea- Ken O’Sullivan

What: In his new show, Stories From The Sea, Ken brings us on his 25 year journey exploring the North Atlantic ocean and seas around Ireland, with stories, video pieces and personal insights into his experiences.

📍Where: Riverbank Arts Centre, Main Street, Newbridge, County Kildare

📅When: October 30th 2026

🕢8.00PM -9.25PM

Description: In this unique live show, Ken takes us on a journey into the deep, sharing his breathtaking encounters with ocean giants. Imagine being surrounded by a pod of killer whales, or swimming alongside thousands of dolphins, fin whales, and blue whales—the largest creatures ever to live on Earth. It is a powerful reminder of the beauty of our natural world and the deep emotional connection we share with it.

This evening is also a celebration of home and heritage. Ken pays a heartfelt homage to his family’s 250-year history on Fenit Island in County Kerry, tracing our ancient, unbroken relationship with the sea.

More Information/Booking:

https://riverbank.ticketsolve.com/ticketbooth/shows/873664971

Cost €18

🎃Kildare Wildlife Rescue Halloween Fancy Dress Ball👻🕷️

What: Join us for a spooktacular night at the Kildare Wildlife Rescue Halloween Fancy Dress Ball. Prizes for the best dressed, DJ and games.

📍Where: Silken Thomas, Market Square, Kildare Town

📅When: Friday October 30th 2026 @ 🕥7.30pm-11.30pm

Description: Gather your finest costumes and join us for a wonderfully spooky evening at the Kildare Wildlife Rescue Halloween Fancy Dress Ball! Taking place on Friday, 30 October 2026,this special night is a fantastic opportunity to come together as a community and support the vital work of Kildare Wildlife Rescue.

More Information/Booking:

Cost €15 plus Booking fee

Tickets Available via Eventbrite https://www.eventbrite.ie/e/kildare-wildlife-rescue-halloween-fancy-dress-ball-tickets-1997968229759?aff=ebdssbdestsearch&_gl=1*q1iiid*_up*MQ..*_ga*NTg1NDIyMDEuMTc4NzA1ODUyOQ..*_ga_TQVES5V6SH*czE3ODcwNTg1Mjgkb

Or on the door on the night!

🍂Samhain- All Saints, All Souls🕯️

What: Samhain in a Christian context is a merger of Halloween – All Hallows Eve, the day before the feast of All Saints – and the Irish Celtic festival of Samhain that some would say is older than the Celtic tradition.

📍Where: Solas Bhride Centre & Hermitages, Tully Rd, Kildare Town, R51Y281

📅When: October 30th 2026 🕙 @7.00PM-9.00PM

Description: Many of the celebrations of Halloween have their origins in the
ancient festival of Samhain.

Samhain, a threshold moment, is traditionally the beginning of the Celtic year- end of the old and the beginning of a whole new cycle. It is a good time to ask at which threshold am I now standing.

The feast of Samhain is an invitation to deepen our inner journey as we move into the darkest time of the year.

More Information/ Booking:

 www.solasbhride.ie or email: info@solasbhride.ie

Cost:      €15.00 

👀The Zombie Monologues 🧟‍♂️ 🧟 🧟‍♀️

What:

Trip Hazard Theatre’sThe Zombie Monologues is a whimsical ensemble horror-comedy, and a feast for the brains and the soul. Written and directed by Rachel Thornton, the show was first performed at The Irish Society Drama Festival 2024, winning six awards including “Best Overall Production” and “Best Original Writing”, and a sold-out performance as a part of LASTA Festival at Dunamaise Arts Centre in 2025.

📍Where:

Riverbank Arts Centre, Main Street, Newbridge W12D962

📅When:

29th October 2026 🕢@8.00pm- 9.45pm

Description: We‍ ‍welcome Trip Hazard Theatre to our stage Thursday, 29th October at 8:00 PM, for a special Samhain Festival performance of The Zombie Monologues. Set against the strange, locked-down backdrop of 2020, this award-winning Irish comedy follows Colm, a local takeaway driver and budding filmmaker who stumbles upon a house of zombies on the edge of Castlebar. Armed with boundless optimism, Colm sets out to show his undead roommates—and the world—the brighter side of life after death, sparking a wonderfully twisted story filled with classic wit and unexpected warmth. Fresh from scooping six awards at the Irish Society Drama Festival, including Best Overall Production, this heart-filled horror is the perfect community night out for anyone aged 16 and over.

More information/Booking:

Cost €12- €15

https://riverbank.ticketsolve.com/ticketbooth/shows/873666146/events/128660273/seats?zone=Auditorium

Halloween Outdoor Movie Night at the Court Yard Hotel

What: Join us for a spooktacular evening at the Court Yard Hotel

📍Where: The Courtyard Hotel, Leixlip, Co.Kildare

📅When: October 29th 2026 🕢4pm-7pm

Description: Enjoy a thrilling and fun-filled screening of Hotel Transylvania under our festively dressed outdoor canopy. It’s the perfect way to celebrate Halloween with friends and family in a lively outdoor setting! 👻🎃

🍿 Popcorn & Sweet Treats will be available!🛋️ Bean bags for the little ones – first come, first served. Early arrival is advised to avoid disappointment!
🪑 Standard seats will be allocated with tickets.
🧥 Please wrap up warm! This is an outdoor event, so dress for the weather & bring a blanket.
🚪 Entry from 4:00 PM
🎬 Movie starts at 5:00 PM
🎟️ Tickets are FREE! Get yours now!

Come along, get cosy, and enjoy a fang-tastic night of Halloween fun! 🧛‍♂️🦇🍿

Get your tickets NOW! 🎃

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/court-yard-hotel-halloween-outdoor-movie-night-hotel-transylvania-tickets-1999479462898?aff=oddtdtcreator

👻Jakula- Kids Halloween Show🎃

What: Join Jackula on a spooktacular quest to step out of his older brother's shadow and become the world’s first fun vampire.

📍Where: Moat Thaetre, Abbey Rd, Naas, Co. Kildare

📅When: 28th October 2026 🕒@ 1pm-2pm

Description: Laugh at Jackula's pet ghost. Gasp as Jackula balances a stack of five glasses of water on his face. Smile as children perform spellbinding tricks and join in a big dance number. An inspirational tale of being true to oneself and following your dreams. Put on a costume and enjoy fangtastic magic and juggling tricks. After the show, everyone gets to do a trick and receive a treat.

More Information/Booking

Tickets Available @ Moat Theatre

Show time: 80 minutes  

Target Audience:  4 - 12yrs

Music Network Presents Bill Laurence

What: Experience the electrifying sound of Grammy-winning pianist and composer Bill Laurance.

📍Where: St. David's Church, Naas, County Kildare. W91D7XY

📅When: October 23rd 2026

🕙8.00pm-10.00pm

Description: We are absolutely delighted to welcome one of contemporary jazz’s most brilliant voices to our stage this October, in partnership with Music Network. Perhaps best known as a founding member of the spectacular, five-time Grammy Award-winning collective Snarky Puppy, Bill has spent years captivating music lovers right across the globe with his deeply expressive performances.

More Information/Booking: Cost €20 https://riverbank.ticketsolve.com/ticketbooth/shows/873662351

👀🎶Movicals

What:

A movie musical extravaganza like no other, the ultimate lights, camera, action experience. 

📍Where:

Moat Theatre, Abbey Road, Naas

📅When:

21st October 2026

🕒 Time:

8PM-10PM

Descpription:

Get ready for a breathtaking, whirlwind journey through the musical decades right here at the theatre.

We are delighted to invite you to an enchanting evening where the storytelling magic of the stage perfectly meets the glamour of the big screen. This spectacular show takes us on a nostalgic voyage through some of the most iconic movie musicals of the last fifty years.

Whether you are a lifelong theatregoer or just love a good sing-along, there is something in this production to capture every heart. Our wonderfully talented cast will bring these cinematic treasures to life before your eyes:

• Powerful drama: Experience the deeply moving, heart-wrenching emotion of Les Misérables.

• High-energy rhythms: Feel the infectious, vibrant beats of Fame that will make you want to dance in your seat.

• Pure joy: Soak up the irresistible, feel-good charm and sunny optimism of Mamma Mia!

Booking Information:

• Tickets €30 plus booking fee

• https://www.moattheatre.com/shows/r8cjjtxv7b7dpvxlwdhfpamz9u1jof?rq=Movicals

Little Wonders: Clay Animals in their Habitats Workshop

What: Explore the world of Puffin Rock! In this 45 minute workshop, Artist Kate Escolin will help you create your own 3D clay animals inspired by the world of Oona and Baba and create a cosy home for them.

📍Where: Riverbank Arts Centre, Newbridge

📅When: October 11th 2026 @ 10.30AM

For Ages 4-5years

Puffin Rock and the New Friends Film Screening

What: Based on the award-winning TV series, Puffin Rock and the New Friends sees our family favourites, Oona, Baba, May and Mossy joined by a new cast of characters, as Isabelle, Phoenix and Marvin arrive on the island.

📍Where: Riverbank Arts Centre, Newbridge

📅When: October 11th 2026 @ 12.00PM

Film rated G

The Faerie Isle Creative Workshop

What: Learn all about faerie lore, legend and facts about magical Irish faeries

📍Where: Riverbank Arts Centre, Newbridge

📅When: October 11th 2026 @ 2.30PM

Description: From shapeshifters to selkies, tiny leprechauns to the enormous giant, Síne Quinn, author of The Faerie Isle: Tales and Traditions of Ireland's Forgotten Folklore will host a workshop with storytelling, drawing and writing on Irish faeries.

For Ages 8 +

Comic Book Creation

What: Bam! Pow! Have you ever wanted to create your own comics? Join Finding My Voice creator Aoife Dooley for a hands-on workshop that will guide you through everything you need to know to make excellent illustrated adventures.

📍Where: Riverbank Arts Centre, Newbridge

📅When: October 11th 2026 @ 4.00PM

Description: Perfect for fans of Bunny vs Monkey, Dog Man and Aoife’s own award-winning book, Frankie’s World. All materials will be provided.

For Ages 11-15

More Information/Booking

All Events Free, Booking advised through kildarereadersfestival.ie

Food, family, and Tradition: A Conversation in Cooking

What: Join us for a lively, flavour-filled afternoon celebrating traditional cooking with three beloved voices in Irish food.

📍Where: Riverbank Arts Centre, Newbridge

📅When: October 10th 2026 @ 3.30PM

Description:Baker and author Graham Herterich shares his passion for heritage recipes, while Eva Pau, fresh from her debut cookbook, and Orla Drumgoole of Irish Mammy Cooks bring the warmth, nostalgia, and practical wisdom of home cooking passed down through generations.

Behind The Bestsellers

What: Step behind the pages with three of Ireland’s bestselling authors—Sheila O’Flanagan, Carmel Harrington and Faith Hogan—for a lively evening of conversation with Sinéad Cuddihy, founder and host of the Tired Mammy Book Club on Instagram.

📍Where: Riverbank Arts Centre, Newbridge

📅When: October 10th 2026 @ 6.00PM

Description: Discover the inspiration behind their beloved novels, the realities of the writing life, and the stories that shape their unforgettable characters. Warm, thoughtful and entertaining, this is a unique chance to hear directly from some of the most popular voices in contemporary fiction.

The Perfect Crime

What: Step into the dark and fascinating world of crime writing with three of Ireland’s most acclaimed authors.

📍Where: Riverbank Arts Centre, Newbridge

📅When: October 10th 2026 @ 8.15PM

Description: In conversation with acclaimed author and broadcaster Fiona Sherlock, they will explore the enduring appeal of crime fiction, the craft of creating unforgettable characters, and why readers can never resist a good mystery.

More Information/Booking:

Cost Free For All Events.. Booking is Advised Through Kildarereadersfestival.ie

10 Books with Louise Nealon and Katriona O’Sullivan

What: Join us for the, much anticipated, Kildare Reader’s Festival’s 10 Books, a unique and personal event with acclaimed writers Louise Nealon (Snowflake, Everything That Is Beautiful) and Katriona O’Sullivan (Poor, Hungry).

📍Where: Riverbank Arts Centre, Newbridge

📅When: October 10th 2026@10.30am

Description: Sharing the stories behind the books that influenced them most, they’ll reflect on reading, writing, and the moments that shape a life. Expect warmth, insight, and plenty of inspiration for your own reading list.

Debut Authors

What: Join us for this exciting discussion featuring four fresh new voices in Irish fiction: Patrick Freyne (having just published his debut work of fiction Experts in a Dying Field) will be in conversation with Jennifer Bray (The Lies Between Us), Djamel White (All Them Dogs), and Edie May Hand (Dirtpickers).

📍Where: Riverbank Arts Centre, Newbridge

📅When: October 10th 2026 @ 1.00pm

Description: The panel, in conversation with writer and critic Eoghan Smith, will discuss what drove them to take the leap of faith and publish their debut fiction tomes, their inspirations, and the challenges that they faced.

More Information/Booking:

Cost Free, Booking advised through kildarereadersfestival.ie

Kildare Readers Festival Retrospective Photographic Exhibition:

What: Step behind the scenes of Kildare Readers Festival with a captivating retrospective exhibition by festival photographer Ger Holland.

📍Where: McKenna Gallery, Riverbank Arts Centre, Newbridge

📅When: October 9th @6.00pm

Description: With 13 years’ experience documenting Ireland’s literary scene, Ger Holland offers a unique visual celebration of the festival’s rich history and enduring spirit.

More Information/Booking:

Cost Free

Landscape, Recollection, and Transformation:

What: Join Lesley Bond and Miriam Mulcahy for a compelling discussion on landscape, history, and personal transformation.

📍Where: McKenna Gallery, Riverbank Arts Centre, Newbridge

📅When: Friday 09.10.2026 | 7pm

Description: Blending memoir, history, and reflection, this conversation will consider what it means to immerse yourself in the land—and return changed.

More Information/Booking:

Cost Free

€1.50 charge for booking online

https://riverbank.ticketsolve.com/ticketbooth/shows/873665299

The Poetry of Living: Refections on Writing and Resilience

What: Join us for an insightful evening with Dearbhla Mescal (Finding Joy) and Jan Brierton (Everybody is a Poem; What Day Is It? Who Gives a F**k?), in conversation with Derek Coyle of Carlow College St. Patrick’s

📍Where: Naas Library and Cultural Centre, Main Street Naas, Co.Kildare

📅When: October 8th 2026 @ 7.00pm

Description: Together, they explore writing, resilience, and finding meaning in everyday life—an honest, engaging discussion not to be missed.

More Information/Booking:

Kildarereadersfestival.ie

Cost Free

Book Online

https://www.tickettailor.com/events/kildarereadersfestival/2287664

🗺️ Kildare Townlands
📍 Kildare Education Support Centre (The Old Parochial House), Friary Road, Kildare Town, R51 KN66
📅 Wednesday 7 October 2026
🕒 Cuppa & Chat from 7:15pm | Talk begins at 8:00pm

Place Names Officer Justin Ó Giolláin offers an engaging exploration of Kildare’s townlands, revealing the stories, language and landscape history embedded in their names.

The Miami Showband Massacre: Memory, Truth, and Legacy

What: In this intimate conversation, Stephen Travers sits down with Frank Shouldice to discuss his book The Bass Player: Surviving the Miami Showband Massacre —a deeply personal account of a night that changed everything, and the decades of personal struggle that followed.

📍Where: Naas Library and Cultural Ccentre, Main Street, Naas

📅When: October 7th 2026 @ 7.00PM

Description: Travers reflects on survival amid senseless violence, the emotional and moral weight of memory, and the long pursuit of truth in the shadow of The Troubles. As a journalist and as a producer/director with the RTÉ Investigations Unit, Frank Shouldice has the necessary skills and expertise to create a space for a powerful dialogue on justice, resilience and reconciliation, as Stephen Travers not only confronts the past, but explores the possibility of healing and peace beyond it.

More Information/Booking:

Cost Free

https://www.tickettailor.com/events/kildarereadersfestival/2287663

My Life in the Saddle: Barry Geraghty in conversation with Donn McClean

What: One of the great jumps rider in Irish racing history, Barry Geraghty chats with Donn McClean about his life and career.

📍Where: The Silken Thomas, Kildare Town

📅When: October 4th 2026 @ 11.00am

Description: One of the great jumps rider in Irish racing history, Barry Geraghty chats with Donn McClean about his life and career, recounting some memorable days aboard the equine greats he was fortunate to partner, including Moscow Flyer and Sprinter Sacre.

More Information/Booking:

Cost Free but €1.50 booking fee for booking online

https://www.tickettailor.com/events/kildarereadersfestival/2287661

Creative Writing Workshops

What: Take a familiar story and transform it into a poem with a unique twist

📍Where: Naas Library and Cultural Centre, Main St, Naas

📅When: Reimagined Poetry for Teens with Ruth Ennis October 3rd 2026 @10.30am for ages 13-18

Intro to Essasy Writing with Writer-In-Residence Ian Maleney @ 10.30 for Adults

Spoken word with David Hynes and Anna D @ 12.00pm for ages 15+

Description: Based on Ruth’s debut novel Shorelines, this workshop is great for exploring poetic techniques, developing your voice as a poet, and creating a poem with a lens unique to you.

More Information/Booking

Cost Free

Bookin fee applys if booking online

Check Kildarereadersfestival.ie

A Quiet Love: Film Screening and Q&A with producer Anne Heffernan

What: Three Deaf couples, three love stories. John & Agnes-a mixed religion, long-married Deaf couple-share their experiences of living through the Troubles.

📍Where: Riverbank Arts Centre, Main Street, Newbridge W12D962

📅When: October 2nd 2026 @ 7.00PM

Description: This remarkable, moving documentary-the first feature produced in Irish sign language-is a celebration of these three couples and their often extraordinary experiences.

More Information/Booking:

https://riverbank.ticketsolve.com/ticketbooth/shows/873666341

*All events are free of charge, though booking is essential. Please note that a €1.50 charge will apply to online bookings made through the Riverbank website. However, you can avoid this charge completely by booking over the phone or in person.