Rothe House is set to be transformed into a spine-tingling Halloween funhouse for Kilkenny Toil and Trouble Festival as part of The Home of Halloween this November!
Families can uncover the science behind witchcraft in interactive performances, groove to live music at a thrilling Halloween concert, join workshops and eerie storytelling sessions, and let kids’ imaginations run wild with spooky face painting.
Booking for each of the four events is done via Eventbrite, with the links for each below.
Hubble Bubble Toil and Trouble: The Alchemy of Witches with Scientific Sue
2pm-2.45pm
3pm-3.45pm
Step into the ancient Tudor Kitchen and join Scientific Sue for this interactive show to discover the science behind the magic of sorcery.
You will also summon iron from stone and forge a witch’s charm, brew colour-changing potions using ancient botanical secrets, and learn how witches mastered the mysteries of soap, dyes, and healing brews.
This is no ordinary show, but a hands-on journey into medieval magic and alchemy. Blending Irish folklore, medieval superstition, and hands-on science, this spellbinding show celebrates the lore of Alice Kytler and the Kilkenny witch trials in a truly magical way.
- Tickets are required for children and adults attending the show.
- Suitable for 5-12 year olds.
- Under 5s are free if not occupying a seat.
- Early booking is recommended as availability is limited.
Tickets can be booked by clicking here.
Witch’s Fantasy Map Making Workshop with Jennifer Farley
2pm-2.45pm
Author, illustrator and map maker Jennifer Farley will host a witch-themed storytelling and map making session. After listening to spooky tales Jennifer will show children how to create a Witch’s Fantasy Map, including a castle, mountains, bats and of course…a witch, inspired by Alice Kytler.
- This event is free but ticketed.
- Adults do not require a ticket but are required to remain with their children.
Tickets can be booked by clicking here.
Scary Stories, Scéalta Samhna with Seosamh Ó Maolalaí
3.15pm-4pm
Gather round for Scary Stories (but not too scary!) with master storyteller, Seosamh Ó Maolalaí. Blending English and Irish, Seosamh weaves tales that are fun, interactive, and full of surprises, inviting children to jump in, share their own stories, or even spin a rhyme or two. With a mix of songs, rhymes, jokes, and just the right touch of spookiness, this storytelling session will bring laughter and fun while celebrating the rich tradition of storytelling at the heart of our national heritage.
Tickets can be booked by clicking here.
Halloween Concert with The Tiny Quartet
4pm-5pm
The Tiny Quartet are known for breathtaking arrangements of beloved songs spanning every era. Effortlessly blending pop, jazz, classical, rock and folk they create a musical experience that enchants audiences of all ages. This Halloween, they bring their magic to Toil and Trouble at Rothe House, serving up spine-tingling classics and spooktacular twists on family favourites — guaranteed to get everyone moving and grooving!
- This event is free but ticketed.
- Early booking is advisable due to limited space.
- Limited seating available.
Tickets can be booked by clicking here.
