It’s all systems go for the 2026 edition of Kilkenny Animated.
The city-based festival that connects filmmakers, artists, students and audiences for a weekend of screenings, talks, workshops and “downright brilliant animated experiences” is back for a three-day run from 11-13 September, and tickets for all events are available from today.
Some of the names among a packed programme included Japanese animator, TV and film director Naoko Yamada, Cartoon Saloon co-founder and creative director Paul Young, comedian, actor and writer Dylan Moran, Andrew Partridge (CEO of Anime Limited) and Rebecca Luca (Silly Sundays, The Boys, President Curtis).
Three days of talks, screenings, workshops and creative events for audiences of all ages await with Cartoon Saloon’s bases at Barrack Street and The Maltings, the Mayfair Library, Watergate Theatre, The Home Rule Club, Medieval Mile Museum, Cakeface, Sullivan’s, Lighthouse Studios and Butler Gallery all acting as host venues.
The full list of headliners for this year includes Aindrias de Staic, Annie Atkins, Aoife Dooley, Amy Byrne, Andrew Partridge, Charles Solomon, Colm Dowling, Dylan Moran, Fergal Brennan, Harry Burton, Helen McCarthy, Marty Broski, Mellisa Malone, Naoko Yamada, Paul Young, Rebecca Luca, Sarah Bowie, Satoko O’Brien, Stephen Colfer, Taís Val Pennal and Will Wivell.
Among the screening highlights is the Irish and UK premiere of one of the most anticipated anime releases of the year, The Keeper of the Camphor Tree which follows an ex-convict whose life takes an unexpected turn when he encounters a mysterious tree said to grant wishes.
There are sketching tours planned, behind the scenes ‘pathways’ events for career hopefuls, a number of children’s events, and if you’re in the mood for shopping, Billy Byrne’s will host a two-day Art Market on Saturday 12 and Sunday 13 September from 12-5pm each day, featuring original artworks, prints, comics and more.
Take the time to browse the full programme now online at KilkennyAnimated.com.
