Organisers of the St. Patrick’s Festival Killarney have confirmed that country music star Jake Carter and his band will headline a major live concert at the New Street Festival Zone this March.

The performance is a centrepiece of the 2026 festival, which runs from Friday, March 13, to Thursday, March 19, under the theme “The Echoes of Killarney: Future.”

The concert will take place in the New Street Car Park from 12 noon to 4.00 pm on March 15.

This year’s theme completes the ‘Echoes’ trilogy, specifically celebrating the talents and creativity of the next generation.

The festival aims to showcase a town that is evolving to be greener, more sustainable, and inclusive for all families.

Following the success of its debut, AbleFest will also return to the festival programme.

This inclusive music and arts festival is specifically designed for individuals with additional needs, their families, and carers.

The event will feature a range of interactive activities alongside the musical performances, ensuring the festival remains accessible to every member of the community.

“Following the incredible success of last year, AbleFest continues to be a proud and important part of our festival programme,” said Festival Chairperson Jason Clifford.

He added that the 2026 celebrations will amplify the energy and vision of Killarney’s youth through its schools, sports organisations, and creative groups.

“As we close the Echoes Trilogy, we invite the entire community to come together to celebrate our young people and the future they represent – a future built on inclusion, creativity, sustainability and community pride,”

Local author Michelle Hadad has released the second edition of her book, The Secret Box: Concave & Convex, as part of her ongoing series The Secret Box: What We Hide.

The updated publication explores the shift in Irish people’s behavior and emotional wellbeing in the years following the pandemic.

The book examines the balance between our inner and outer lives, focusing on the everyday emotional realities of post-pandemic Ireland.

According to the author, the series aims to offer readers insight and reflection on what we choose to reveal or hide from others without using clinical labels.

It addresses a growing need for connection and meaning in a changed social landscape.
Supporting local retail is a key priority for this launch.

The book is now stocked and available for purchase at O’Connor’s Newsagents on Beech Road, and at Beaufort Post Office.