Ireland’s Largest Brigid Festival Set to Light Up Kildare
-Kildare is gearing up for a record-breaking celebration as over 100,000 people are expected to visit to the county for Brigid 2025
27th January 2025: Kildare is gearing up to welcome over 100,000 visitors this January and February as the Brigid 2025 - Spirit of Kildare Festival prepares to celebrate the legacy of Ireland’s iconic female patron saint, whose history is deeply rooted in the county.
Running until February 3rd, this coming year’s festival combines intimate concerts, large-scale events, and a series of community activities that honour Brigid’s enduring legacy through the theme "Her Spirit, Our Story".
The Brigid 2025 - Spirit of Kildare Festival is an inclusive celebration that invites locals and visitors alike to engage with Kildare’s rich heritage. It highlights St. Brigid’s significance not only in Irish culture but also in global conversations about empowerment, the arts, and the environment.
Proudly delivered by Kildare County Council, the festival programme features a host of free public events alongside a series of ticketed performances by leading artists curated in collaboration with Hot Press. Brigid 2025 promises to be an unmissable celebration for all ages, with highlights including family fun days, wellness activities, storytelling sessions, music performances, and sports demonstrations.
Commenting on the upcoming festival, Sonya Kavanagh, Chief Executive of Kildare County Council, said: “We are incredibly excited to welcome visitors from across the country and beyond to experience everything this festival has to offer. Brigid 2025 is a unique opportunity to showcase the rich cultural heritage of Kildare, with a programme that blends intimate performances, large-scale public celebrations, and a series of community-focused events.”
On Thursday, January 30th, Maynooth will come alive with the Procession of Light, led by Luxe Landscape Theatre. This grand, fiery processional event marks the transition from winter to spring, celebrating the spirit of renewal. People are invited to gather and watch as the streets are illuminated in a stunning display, offering a unique opportunity to experience the energy and magic of the St. Brigid’s Festival 2025.
On Friday, January 31st, St. David's Church in Naas will host a special screening of the award-winning Irish film Herself, followed by a Q&A with the film’s co-writer and lead actor, Clare Dunne. This event highlights female creativity and resilience. Guests will enjoy the critically acclaimed drama, which explores themes of community and determination, in a stunning, atmospheric setting. Complimentary tickets are available, offering a memorable evening celebrating Irish talent.
On Saturday, February 1st, Warriors: Celebrating Irish Sportswomen will take place at The Curragh Racecourse in County Kildare. This free event offers a range of family-friendly activities, including sports demonstrations, training sessions, and meet-and-greets with top athletes. Hosted by Anna Geary, the event will feature participants from Athletics Ireland, FAI Women's Cup winners Shelbourne FC, the Irish Athletic Boxing Association, Kildare LGFA, and Leinster Rugby, making it a great opportunity to celebrate the incredible achievements of women in sport.
Later that same day, The Brigid’s Day Gathering will take place indoors at The Curragh Racecourse at 7pm. This free event, with no booking required, will feature performances by some of Ireland’s most talented artists, including Sharon Shannon, Lyra, and Irish Women in Harmony. It promises to be a vibrant celebration of music and female empowerment, perfect for attendees of all ages.
In an exciting addition to the festival line-up, the renowned aerial dance troupe Fidget Feet will take to the skies in Kildare town on Sunday, February 2nd with The Cloak in the Night Sky. This magical tale combines aerial performances, special effects, and live traditional Irish music to create a memorable experience. Developed in collaboration with Ceol Connected, it’s an event not to be missed, and everyone is welcome to enjoy this unique display of movement and artistry.
Songs on a Boat: The Tiny Deck Concert will now take place on Monday, February 3rd, in Sallins. Set against the backdrop of the Sallins Grand Canal, this floating concert promises an unforgettable evening of music, with Megan O’Neill and friends providing the perfect soundtrack to close the Brigid 2025 Festival in style. This free public event is open to everyone, offering a unique opportunity to experience live music in a truly magical setting.
Further details on ticketing, event locations, and the full programme can be found at www.spiritofbrigid.ie and through the festival’s social media channels.
