If you’re strolling through Kilkenny’s cobbled streets, and you hear an echo of laughter followed by a cry of “Shenanigans!” this is not the sound of some long-forgotten ritual from our past, but rather a modern phenomenon, of visitors swept up in the fun and infectious energy of Shenanigans Walks, and their Celtic roar.
Created by Kilkenny native, Nevin Cody in 2017, the experience has grown from a small local venture into a multi-award-winning attraction, accolades including TripAdvisor’s Travellers choice award 2021 as the best thing to do in Ireland.
Bringing a modern twist on traditional tours, guides lead you on an engaging, entertaining, funny and informative adventure along Ireland’s Medieval Mile.
The real MAGIC of Shenanigans is a refreshing blend of history, compelling stories, interesting colloquial sayings, and a clever sprinkle of magic effects which elevate the experience and bring it to life. All topped off with a good dose of craic and shenanigans.
Tours weave through the charming and picturesque city streets, filled with breathtaking landmarks, history and tales of the Normans, merchants, “The Greatest Knight” who ever lived, monks and Kilkenny’s infamous witch Alice, they even test one guest to see if they are a witch – watch out it might be you.
This is a fun and unforgettable combination that has something for everyone, filled with magical tales and moments of WOW!
Cody’s vision is “to create an interest and curiosity, through innovative and engaging experiences, that inspires visitors and locals alike to dig deeper and explore more”.
Shenanigans offer public, private and group tours and their mobile puzzle tour where the streetscape holds the answer to riddles that allow you unlock the city stories, is growing in popularity.
In 2021 Kilkenny city and county was designated a world craft destination and Shenanigans partnered with Kilkenny Design to develop a “meet the craft-maker” experience with the incredible artisan makers in the castle yard.
Shenanigator Extraordinaire
Nevin told Kilkenny People, that after his careers in the corporate world of retail and finance, he was driven by an ambition to explore new opportunities, and pursue an idea he was passionate about for many years “Shenanigans”.
“I love it” he said, “Shenanigans combines all the things I love in the place I love”. “I get to meet people from all walks of life; I am fascinated by their stories some happy and some sad but always a privilege and everyday a lesson”.
Combining his love of Kilkenny, Ireland, people, storytelling, performing and magic, Nevin has emceed events for Tourism Ireland around the world including USA and Australia & New Zealand, has appeared on multiple podcasts, radio and TV shows at home and abroad, and has featured in international ad campaigns promoting Kilkenny and Ireland.
In April he will be speaking to tour businesses and guides in Berlin and later this year will also be speaking at Purdue University in the USA.
While chatting to him he mentioned he was looking for new Shenanigators. I asked him what he would like to see in a Shenanigans guide?
“I know I will never find another me, which is probably a good thing”, he laughed. “The right person is self-motivated, quick-witted with a passion for people, storytelling, possess good communication skills, and brings energy and enthusiasm”.
He said, charisma and energy is essential, “we are the introducers to the city, our job is to inspire, excite and delight visitors and leave lasting memories of Kilkenny, Ireland and of course Shenanigans”.
“If they had a desire and passion to be in tourism and hospitality, we can help the right person develop the skills required”.
So, if you’re ready to embark on a fun fuelled adventure, filled with laughter, learning and more than a little shenanigans along the way, then we want to hear from you!
Apply today and let the Shenanigans begin!
Interested? Send your CV to walk@shenaniganswalks.com with “Shenanigator” in the Subject line. And, let us know why this role is for you.
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