February 1st marks the first day of spring, so even if you have no intention of putting away the thermals just yet, it’s time to start thinking about enjoying the longer days. And what better place to celebrate spring than in Killarney, where nature is bursting free of its wintry bareness, and the entertainment calendar is full of lively events. Book into Killarney’s Holiday Village, and you’ll be close to it all, from the spring blooms at Killarney House to the lively stages at the INEC.
Here are just a few treats to tempt you to Killarney this spring:
The Gathering
The Gathering Traditional Festival is now an incredible 18 years old, and it has certainly matured into one of the country’s most loved traditional festivals. Whether you are a hardened sean nos enthusiast or you just like to dance the Siege of Ennis at a wedding, you’ll find something to thrill and delight you at the Gathering at the INEC, from February 23rd. There are sessions on the Lower Lake, tumultuous ceilis, masterful workshops, and even set-dancing puppets. Have a look at the programme to get a flavour of what’s in store, and then prepare to be enchanted. A weekend pass is €55.
The Cherry Walk
Back in 2014, Killarney locals were dismayed to find their beloved Cherry Walk removed due to damage by storm and disease. It has since been replanted, so you can look forward once more to sauntering along the path by Killarney House, your eye drawn to the vista of Tomies, Purple Mountain, and the McGillycuddy’s Reeks in the distance, while a foam of delicate pink petals overhead reminds you that spring has returned to Killarney. Killarney House is situated at the edge of the town, just over 2km from Killarney’s Holiday Village.
Killarney Mountain Festival
The inaugural Killarney Mountain Festival celebrates one of Killarney’s defining features. Peaks soaring and modest, craggy and wooded, are what make Killarney one of the most beautiful places you will ever visit, and the Killarney Mountain Festival aims to highlight their majesty and inspire audiences to enjoy them to the fullest. Held on the weekend of March 9th to 11th in association with the U.K.’s Kendal Mountain Festival, it will feature films, workshops, demonstrations, exhibitions, family activities, music, speakers, and—of course—a variety of sample and featured hikes and climbs. Check out the programme and buy tickets for the events from the website.
