Killarney Town Retailers Association (KTRA) has issued a final call to the public to support local businesses this weekend, with only a few shopping days remaining before Christmas.

The association is emphasising the long-term impact that choosing to shop local has within the town centre over other alternatives has on the local community. Our long-standing businesses are the fabric of our town and are what make Killarney unique so by spending locally, residents ensure that money remains circulating within Killarney, directly supporting local jobs.
“When you shop local, your money stays local, supporting your neighbours, friends, and families,” said a KTRA spokesperson.
Beyond the economic benefits, the association highlighted that local shops are the first to provide sponsorship for community events, charity fundraisers, and local sports clubs.
“These businesses are never found wanting when it comes to backing projects,” added the spokesperson. “When they thrive, so does our town.”
William Sheahan, Chairperson of the Killarney Town Retail Association (KTRA), encouraged shoppers to utilise the Kerry County Council free parking initiatives over the coming days and explore the wide range of specialised services available on their doorstep some of which have online options such as click and collect or local home delivery.
“Hopefully, through this campaign, we can remind people of all that is good about our town centre shops,” Mr. Sheahan said. “From butchers to footwear, and fashion to fragrances, our town centre has a huge amount to offer both locals and tourists alike.”
Residents are encouraged to make an impact this weekend by visiting the town’s independent retailers for their final Christmas purchases.

Killarney Lions Club’s Christmas Food Appeal, which provides food hampers and vouchers to families in need during the festive season, has seen huge support in recent weeks in advance of its annual street collection this Friday (December 19).

The transition year students at Killarney Community College raised money through a fantastic bake sale in the school, while the students of St Brendan’s College had great success by fundraising through a ‘non uniform’ day and carol singing in Killarney town.

Next up was the first ever Santa Cycle fundraiser on Saturday December 6, which was supported by Killarney Cycling Club and Christmas in Killarney. The event was a great success, with over €700 raised and more than 40 people taking part in the Cycle which culminated in a guest appearance at the head of the Christmas in Killarney parade.

Lions Club volunteers will be out in force this Friday around Killarney town to raise the remaining funds needed for the Food Appeal. Over 100 families were supported through the initiative in 2024, and the Club hopes to provide similar support this year