New Kildare community awards aim to embody spirit of St Brigid
The awards will shine a spotlight on people and organisations that have made a meaningful difference to others
KILDARE County Council and the ‘Brigid – Spirit of Kildare Festival 2026’ have announced the launch of the Spirit of Kildare Awards 2026, a new initiative to celebrate individuals and groups that “embody Brigid’s values through their contributions to community life across Kildare”.
Nominations opened last week and will remain open for a month until 5pm on 4 December, and the Spirit of Kildare Awards are “an exciting new addition to the festival”.
Taking place as part of the Brigid – Spirit of Kildare Festival 2026, the awards will shine a spotlight on people and organisations whose actions, creativity and commitment have made a meaningful difference to others.
The ceremony will also include a Lifetime Achievement Award, recognising an individual or group who has helped place Kildare on the national or international stage.
An independent adjudication panel will review all entries, with a shortlist to be announced in the lead period before the festival. Winners will be revealed at a special awards ceremony in ‘Cruinniú Chill Dara’, Naas as part of the Brigid – Spirit of Kildare Festival.
The Spirit of Kildare Awards 2026 will recognise contributions across seven categories, including local heritage and biodiversity, contributions to community life, as well as awards for youth, environmental, arts and sports contributions and, in honour of the matron saint herself, Woman in Leadership.
“We want to take this opportunity to recognise the hard work and dedication of members of our community,” said Sonya Kavanagh, CEO of Kildare County Council. “Every day across our county individuals and groups give their time, skills and passion to improve the lives of others.
“These awards are about shining a light on that commitment and celebrating the incredible community spirit that defines the Spirit of Kildare.” “Embracing the Spirit of Kildare, these awards are our way to celebrate values associated with Brigid that are as meaningful today as they were 1,500 years ago, such as compassion, inspiration, equality and sustainability,” said county council cathaoirleach cllr Carmel Kelly.
“I encourage everyone to get involved and help us honour those who go above and beyond to make a difference, embodying the true Spirit of Kildare.”
Further details on the Brigid – Spirit of Kildare Festival 2026 and the Spirit of Kildare Awards will be available at www.spiritofbrigid.ie and on social media @spiritofbrigid.
The Brigid 2026 Spirit of Kildare Festival is an inclusive county-wide celebration that invites locals and visitors to experience Kildare’s creativity, culture and community spirit. Taking place from Thursday 29 January to Monday 2 February 2026, the festival honours St Brigid, Ireland’s only female patron saint and her lasting legacy as a symbol of compassion, inspiration and equality.
Now firmly established as one of Ireland’s leading cultural festivals, the Spirit of Brigid brings together music, art, storytelling, wellness and family events across towns and villages throughout the county.
