- Dingle Races (7–9 August, Ballintaggart, Dingle): A lively three-day horse and pony racing event with a festive, social atmosphere typical of Dingle’s spirited race weekends.
- Puck Fair (10–12 August, Killorglin): One of Ireland’s oldest and most unique festivals. A wild mountain goat is crowned “King Puck,” presiding over three days of street entertainment, music, parades, horse and cattle fairs, markets, funfair rides, and traditional celebrations (Gathering Day, Fair Day, and Scattering Day).
- Rose of Tralee International Festival (14–18 August, Tralee): A major celebration of Irish culture and heritage featuring the selection of the Rose of Tralee from women of Irish descent worldwide. It includes parades, live music, street entertainment, markets, a funfair, fireworks, and family-friendly events alongside the televised competition.
- Cahersiveen Music and Arts Festival (late July into early August, around 31 July–2 August, Cahersiveen): A homecoming festival with music, arts, community games, family events, and sports competitions.
- National Heritage Week in Kerry (15–23 August, events across Kerry): Free and accessible activities celebrating Ireland’s heritage, including walks, talks, crafts, biodiversity events, and site visits at locations like Muckross House and local towns.
- Killarney Races August Festival (around mid-to-late August, Killarney Racecourse): Summer horse racing with competitive cards, evening meetings, and a relaxed festive vibe against a scenic mountain backdrop. .
Annual & recurring festivals
County Kerry is a major hub for Irish tourism and culture, hosting world-famous festivals that range from ancient pagan traditions to international film and literature events.
- Scoil Cheoil an Earraigh (February): A five-day traditional music spring school in Ballyferriter on the Dingle Peninsula, featuring workshops, concerts, and sessions.
- The Gathering Traditional Festival (March): A premier celebration of Irish traditional music and set dancing held in Killarney, attracting dancers from all over the world.
- Killarney St. Patrick’s Festival (March): A multi-day celebration featuring a massive parade, lake-based activities, and buildings illuminated in green across the town.
- Feile na Bealtaine (May): A vibrant arts and culture festival in Dingle that marks the beginning of summer with street performances, poetry, and concerts.
- Listowel Writers’ Week (May/June): Ireland’s oldest literary festival, bringing together internationally acclaimed authors and aspiring writers for workshops and readings in North Kerry.
- Ireland BikeFest (June): A massive three-day motorcycle festival in Killarney featuring bike parades, custom shows, and live rock music.
- Killarney Races (May, July & August): A scenic horse racing festival held over several three-day meetings, famous for its “Ladies’ Day” and mountain backdrops.
- Sneem Family Festival (July): A community-focused week in the picturesque village of Sneem featuring raft races, guided walks, and children’s entertainment.
- Puck Fair (August): One of Ireland’s oldest festivals, held in Killorglin, where a wild mountain goat is crowned “King Puck” and presides over three days of markets and music.
- National Heritage Week in Kerry (third week in August) features walks, talks, exhibitions, and activities across the county.
- Rose of Tralee International Festival (August): A globally recognized celebration of Irish culture and heritage where women of Irish descent from around the world compete for the title of “The Rose.”
- Charlie Chaplin Comedy Film Festival (August): A tribute to the film legend (who was a frequent visitor) held in Waterville, featuring screenings, stand-up, and street theatre.
- Dingle Food Festival (October): A massive culinary event featuring the famous “Taste Trail,” where visitors use tokens to sample food and drink from over 70 venues across the town.
- Kerry International Film Festival (October): A Killarney-based festival showcasing international and local cinema, with a strong focus on short films and emerging talent.
- Other Voices (December): An intimate and world-renowned music festival in Dingle that records high-profile international and Irish acts in St. James’ Church.
- Christmas in Killarney (November/December): A winter festival featuring festive parades, an outdoor ice rink, and traditional Christmas markets.
Festivals
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Kerry:
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