Saturday 31th October 2026
Location: Kilkenny City
Inspired by the true story of Petronilla de Meath and Alice Kyteler, Macnas presents Cailleach, a breathtaking new street spectacle reclaiming the power of the women persecuted in Ireland’s first witch trial in 1324. Petronilla, once burnt at the stake, now leads and controls the energies of fire through the streets of Kilkenny. She is accompanied by ecstatic townsfolk, marching behind her to the rhythm of their drums, while Alice commands the scene from behind, giving life with the help of her mysterious healers. Cailleach combines Macnas’ signature large-scale puppetry with incredible performances and special effects to create an image of Petronella and Alice as influential women of their time, while reimagining the figure of the witch as a revitalising force shaping the elements, land, and stories around her. Procession route John Street to Canal Square
Organisers Website

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