Killarney Races

You know summer is on the way when the Killarney Races comes to town. The May festival kicks off on the Sunday 11th of May and runs until the Tuesday the 13th. This is the first edition of the Races which will also host festivals in July and August. The racecourse is located down the Ross Road and has been called the “most scenic racecourse in Ireland”. Well, I pulled that quote from the Killarney Races website and they may not be the most impartial authority on the subject but when you see it you’ll find it hard to disagree with them.

The fetsival begins with Lá Na Gaeilge on the Sunday which means Day of Irish. There’ll be a distinctly Gaelic feel to the day’s events with traditional music and dancing taking place all over the course, Irish language enthusiast and TV/Radio personality Hector O’hEochagain coordinating the activities and GAA commentating legend Micháel Ó’Muircheartaigh providing commentary in Irish for one of the races.

The first race starts at 2.30pm on Sunday and on Monday and Tuesday they will begin at 5.30pm. If you’re thinking of heading down you’d be well advised not to drive to the racecourse as the traffic is often very heavy unless it’s a rainy day. You’d be better off parking in town and  enjoying the comfortable 15 minute walk in my opinion. Unless you’re wearing heels, of course.

Tickets are €15 for all days and there is a reduction for OAPs and students and kids under 14 are allowed in for free. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance.