Killarney might not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of the 4th of July, but think again: Our friends in the United States have always had a soft spot for this part of the old sod, with some 500,000 U.S. tourists visiting the southwest of Ireland every year. And the people of Killarney are keen to show how much they appreciate this relationship. Stay at Killarney’s Holiday Village this summer and discover one of the best celebrations of the 4th of July you’re likely to see this side of the Atlantic.
Events
The celebrations get off to an early start with Morning Reveille at 7 am and the raising of the flags at Killarney Town Hall. As the day wears on, the streets of the town will be closed to traffic so that everyone can come out to enjoy the music and dance at the afternoon street party. And, of course, it wouldn’t be the fourth of July without a barbecue: Feast on American-themed goodies from the grill at the charity barbecue event.
Parade
Americans do parades like no other nationality, but Killarney folk are no strangers to street spectacle either, so it’s sure to be a jaw-dropping extravaganza. The focus of the Big Parade will be American-themed floats, characters from the Wild West, Disney favourites, and cheerleaders—all of whom are guaranteed to keep everyone entertained until the grand finale and the fantastic fireworks display.
Movie Night at Killarney House
Killarney House and Gardens was owned by a syndicate of U.S. investors before becoming the property of the McShains—the family of Irish-American construction magnate John McShain—so it’s no surprise that it is a focal point for this year’s 4th-of-July celebrations. Enjoy such iconic American movies as Top Gun and Back to the Future in the idyllic surroundings of Killarney House and enjoy the warm welcome that Killarney has always nurtured for our friends from the other side of the Atlantic.
Want to find out more about the celebrations for this year’s 4th of July in Killarney?
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