Thinking of heading to County Kerry for a Christmas break? There’s a lot happening in Kerry this festive season. From magical Christmas festivals to winter wonderlands and Christmas markets, Kerry has pulled out all the stops once again for 2009! Read our guide to some of the top Christmas events taking place this Christmas…
Christmas In Killarney Festival
The Christmas in Killarney Festival is one of the top Christmas festivals in the south west of Ireland. The pretty tourist town of Killarney in County Kerry is a popular destination all year round, but it really comes alive at Christmas! This festive season, visitors can look forward to a free Santa’s Lodge, a children’s parade, an ice skating rink, guided winter walks in the National Park, open air Christmas markets, top concerts in the INEC, a fashion show and lots more. Check out the Christmas In Killarney website for further info.
Crag Caves Winter Wonderland in Castleisland
If you’re looking for a magical Christmas adventure with your little ones, then don’t look any further than Crag Caves. The caves are located just outside the town of Castleisland in County Kerry. The Winter Wonderland at Crag Caves is an unforgettable experience with animated snowscenes, polar bears, real life reindeer and Santa’s elves. The elves will lead you around the magical winter wonderland and show you Santa’s bedroom and the elves bedroom. You’ll also get to meet Mrs. Clause and then in the Grotto - the man himself - Santa! Afterwards kids can enjoy some playtime in the indoor adventure play area.
Visit Santa’s Winter Wonderland website for more
Christmas Markets & Craft Fairs in Tralee
Tralee town centre will be a hive of activity this Christmas with the arrival of German-style Christmas markets. Irish traders will also take part in the markets where Christmas food, gifts and crafts will be on display. The markets will be held from 6pm on Friday 4th of December to Tuesday 8th December and will be open until 8pm each evening.
A Christmas Craft Fair will take place in the Brandon Hotel on the 6th of December while the Fels Point Hotel will also hold a craft fair on the 5th and 6th of December.
Hunting the Wren in Dingle
Wondering what to do on St. Stephen’s Day? Head for the beautiful town of Dingle in west Kerry and witness one of Ireland’s oldest customs - hunting for the Wren. Dressed in the traditional attire (straw suits!) the ‘Wren Boys’ will march through the streets of Dingle to the beat of drums. They stop off at some of the pubs along the way to play some traditional Irish music and collect money for a charity. People come from far and wide to take part in the fun and enjoy the music and craic that comes with this ancient tradition.
These are just some of the top events happening in County Kerry this festive season. If you know of anymore, feel free to add them to the comment box below.
Enjoy your Christmas break in Kerry and remember to book your accommodation early - check out our Kerry hotels page for some excellent hotel deals.
