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Santa’s on the move in Killarney as grotto relocates for Christmas

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For the first time since 1937, Santa will not be based at Deenagh Lodge for his pre-Christmas visits to Killarney.

Ongoing roof re-thatching works at the traditional cottage in Killarney National Park mean the grotto is being relocated for this year’s Christmas in Killarney celebrations.

Santa will now meet families at Golden Gates Lodge at Killarney House and Gardens, just inside the main entrance on the Muckross Road.

The new venue is a short walk from the original lodge.

Santa will be in Killarney from this week until Tuesday, December 23, operating Thursdays and Fridays from 4.00pm to 9.00pm and Saturdays and Sundays from 11.30am to 6.00pm. Advance booking is advised.

Santa has been visiting children at Deenagh Lodge since his first appearance there in 1937.

Despite the new location, visitors can still expect the usual experience, including meeting Santa and the elves, handing in letters, and receiving a small keepsake.

Santa has said he is looking forward to the new setting and hopes families enjoy the change while works continue at Deenagh Lodge.

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Tadhg Fleming to lead Team Jack and Jill in Ring of Kerry Charity Cycle

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Tadhg Fleming to lead Team Jack and Jill in Ring of Kerry Charity Cycle


Comedian and content creator Tadhg Fleming will lead the charge for Team Jack and Jill this summer, taking on the 170km Ring of Kerry Charity Cycle on Saturday, July 4.


The annual event, which starts and finishes in Killarney, raises vital funds for charities across Ireland. This year, Fleming is urging cyclists of all abilities to join him in raising money to support the 504 Jack and Jill families nationwide, including 14 families currently receiving care in County Kerry.
“It’s a sin this Kerry man hasn’t done the Ring of Kerry yet, but it’s about time I did it,” Fleming said. “I’m absolutely delighted to be taking it on for Jack and Jill, a charity very close to our hearts. Dad Derry has done it a few times and told me it’s a piece of cake, so we’ll soon find out about that.”
The Jack and Jill Children’s Foundation provides critical in-home nursing care and respite support for children up to the age of seven who live with severe learning disabilities and complex medical needs.
Among those benefiting from the service is Tralee mother Anna Walsh. Her youngest daughter, Róisín, lives with Angelman syndrome, a rare neurogenetic condition.
“Jack and Jill has made such a difference to our family life,” Walsh said. “The hours of in-home nursing care we receive mean I’m able to work, which is massively important for our family. It gives us breathing space, practical support, and reassurance when things are overwhelming.”
Registration is now open for participants looking to secure a place on the team. Those who sign up to cycle for the charity will receive fundraising support, specialized training plans from Coral Leisure personal trainers, and an official Jack and Jill cycling jersey.
Cyclists can register to join Team Jack and Jill online at https://www.ringofkerrycycle.ie/our-charities/jack-jill-foundation/

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100-year-old fire tender beautifully restored 

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Billy Spring from Milltown with his restored Merryweather Hatfield Trailer Pump Fire Tender which was in service by Killarney Fire Brigade from it’s purchase in 1926 up until the 1960’s,Billy purchased it in 1994,he carried out the restoration on it from 2008 to 2026.This Appliance was particularly suited for duties as the town was composed of a lot of narrow lanes and congested areas where a regular pump couid not gain access.Photo by Michael G Kenny

A piece of Killarney’s municipal history has been painstakingly brought back to life following an extensive restoration project by Milltown resident Billy Spring.

The rare machine served as a frontline tender for the Killarney Fire Brigade for four decades, spanning from the 1920s through to the 1960s. Having survived a century, the machine required a monumental amount of skilled craftsmanship to reverse decades of wear and return it to its former glory.

Now fully restored, this unique piece of local heritage offers a rare glimpse into the early days of emergency services in the region.

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