If you’ve been thinking of getting into casual trading this year or you’re looking to add an extra date to your weekly calendar, the application process for the Kilkenny Farmers Market is currently open.
I know at least two long-standing traders have departed the usual Thursday market (whose pies, doughnuts and coffee will be missed) but when one door closes, another opens and all that and as it currently stands, Kilkenny County Council are accepting applications from traders or the casual trading license required for the Thursday farmer’s market on the Parade. The period covered is 1 March 2024 to 28 April 2025.
Separate applications are likely to open later in the year for the return of the Saturday markets, usually in operation across the summer months.
I might be biased, but Thursday’s solid market in Kilkenny. Fresh fruit and veg, breads, cheese, chocolate, options for lunch from Bula Bus, Hartrey Kitchen, Breagagh Valley, the Crepe Station and more, juices, teas, jewellery and the rest. with a great bunch of people involved.
Stalls can only be 3×3 metres in size and all food businesses must be registered with the HSE and be able to provide a confirmation letter to the same. Traders must also hold public liability insurance (€6.5m), employers’ liability insurance (€13m) and product liability insurance (€6.5m). Fees for 2024-2025 are €325 for craft items only and €400 for non-craft (food/meat/fish/bread/flowers etc.)
Deadline for applications is this coming Friday 13 January at midday and you can apply here via Kilkenny County Council.