Kilkenny makers get involved in August Craft Month, Ireland’s biggest celebration of craft

August Craft Month, a month-long celebration of local craft across the island of Ireland, launches with a host of exciting events taking place throughout Kilkenny.

This year August Craft Month returns with a packed programme of over 300 events from more than 900 makers across the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland, including workshops, exhibitions, open studios and festivals to allow audiences to immerse themselves in local craft.

With 26 craft disciplines represented there is something for everyone, of all ages, and all levels of expertise to experience, support, make, see and buy stand-out local craft.
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August Craft Month celebrates craft traditions that are hundreds of years old, and the fresh, modern ways people across the island still use and share them today.

The packed programme of events allows everyone to immerse themselves in creative craft celebrations on their doorstep and hit the road on a craft inspired adventure or staycation. Led by Design & Crafts Council Ireland (DCCI) and Craft NI, August Craft Month is also continuing its long-term collaboration with Cork Craft & Design.

Local makers such as Made in Kilkenny, Glass Society of Ireland, and Denise O’Connell & Ray Power will all be involved in the celebrations and events, to name a few.

The programme provides unmissable opportunities to experience, participate in, support, buy and learn about the local stand-out craft sector. Below you will find just a few of the exciting events on offer in Kilkenny:

MADE/NEW
Location: Mayfair Library, Parliament street, Kilkenny, R95 N23R. Price: FREE. Date & Time: Sat 9 Aug at 10am – Sat 30 Aug at 5pm

MADE/NEW celebrates the exciting new work of 26 current members and welcoming fresh new talent. This exhibition highlights the dynamic spirit of contemporary craft in ceramics, jewellery, glass, wood, and more—blending tradition with innovation, as new members join a collective rooted in heritage and creative excellence.

Connections
Location: Jerpoint Glass, Oldtown, Stoneyford, R95 WN67. Price: FREE. Date & Time: Fri 1 Aug at 7pm – Tue 30 Sep at 5pm

A group exhibition by members of the Glass Society of Ireland at Jerpoint Glass exploring themes of connection through glass. The show highlights relationships between maker, material, community, and the broader environment.

Soap & Ceramic Soap Dish Making
Location: Castle Yard, Kilkenny. Price: €130. Date & Time: Sun 3 Aug at 10am – Sun 3 Aug at 1.30pm

Join Ray from Castle Arch Pottery and Denise from My Skin Integrity for a serene three hour workshop in the Castle Yard, Kilkenny. Using pinch pot and slab building techniques, you’ll handcraft your own unique ceramic soap dish, which will be glazed and kiln fired after the session. Then, create your own cold process soap using nourishing butters, botanicals and essential oils. With refreshments provided, this hands-on experience blends timeless craft with natural skincare – an invitation to slow down, connect and create with care.

For the full island-wide programme and to get involved and show your support for your local craft sector visit www.augustcraftmonth.org.

Share your own craft adventures by tagging @augustcraftmonth25 and use the hashtags #augustcraftmonth2025 #makeseebuy