The Alternative Kilkenny Arts (AKA) Festival is a community-led celebration of creativity that takes place across Kilkenny City and County each August. In 2025, we will be celebrating our 10th year of the festival. Entirely volunteer-run, the 10-day festival supports and showcases the work of over 130 local and emerging artists through exhibitions, performances, workshops and cultural events in a wide variety of venues from heritage buildings to pop-up community spaces. Rooted in accessibility, inclusion and sustainability, AKA fosters strong connections between artists, audiences and the wider community. The festival highlights Kilkenny’s rich artistic traditions and contemporary creative energy in the county,  while also encouraging diverse participation and creative expression from all members of the community. 

Through our website at akafringe.com from mid-July onwards.  

Audiences can visit our website from July 18th onwards to access information on exhibitions, workshops and live events.

Additionally, links are available on the website for ticketed events from mid-July onwards. Events are artist-led and audiences will be coordinating with the artists directly.

Exhibitions within the festival are free to attend.

No equipment required. 

Please note that the details of events listed above are provided by the relevant Local Authorities.