Winners Announced in the “Fado, Fadó Sparking Memories” Competition 2026
Winners Announced in the “Fado, Fadó Sparking Memories” Competition 2026
Kilkenny's love for local history came alive through the Fado, Fadó Competition, which invited pupils across Kilkenny to delve into family stories, landmarks, and historical events. The response was overwhelming, with over 160 entries showcasing imagination, originality, and heartfelt connections. Following the success of last year’s competition, Kilkenny County Council Library Service’s Local Studies Department, Kilkenny Archaeological Society, and Rothe House Trust once again came together to deliver the competition for 2026 and include a secondary school’s section in this year’s competition.
A prize-giving ceremony was held at the Mayfair Library on April 21st, where young people, parents and teachers along with library staff and invited guests witnessed the winners receiving trophies, vouchers, book tokens and educational experiences for their families at Rothe House. Speakers at the event were, Ann Murtagh from Kilkenny Archaeological Society, Director of Services from Kilkenny County Council, Fiona Deegan, Senior Executive Librarian, Aisling Kelly, Cathaoirleach of Kilkenny County Council, Councillor Mary Hilda Cavanagh and Cóilín Ó Drisceoil, State Archaeologist with the National Monuments Service.
· Primary Category: 1st place - Jane Comerford, St. Colman's NS in Clara.
· 3rd Year Category: 1st place - Ava Dollard, Presentation Secondary School, Kilkenny.
· TY Category: 1st place - Adam Staunton, St. Kieran's College, Kilkenny.
Second place prizes and highly commended entries were also awarded to pupils present at the event.
The Judges praised the outstanding quality and diversity of the projects, which ranged from personal family histories to local landmarks and even international connections. The organisers who collaborated on the project are thrilled with the success and plan to expand the competition to post-primary level next year, continuing to foster a passion for history and community pride among Kilkenny's youth.
The winning projects, alongside other commendable entries, are digitised and are accessible on the Kilkenny Library Digital Archive.
For further information please contact Alicia Dunphy at alicia.dunphy@kilkennycoco.ie
Cathaoirleach of Kilkenny County Council, Councillor Mary Hilda Cavanagh.
Cóilín Ó Drisceoil with Primary School 1st place winner - Jane Comerford, St. Colman's NS, Clara
Group picture of attendees, speakers and prizewinners.
Imagery by Ro photography.