The usual morning routine was swapped for slippers and dressing gowns at Maggie’s Montessori last Friday as the children took part in the annual National Pyjama Day.

The local event was held in support of LauraLynn, Ireland’s Children’s Hospice, and Early Childhood Ireland’s Eco-Emotions project.
The theme for the day was “children helping children and having fun,” with the Killarney toddlers joining over 65,000 children nationwide in the massive fundraising drive. Since its inception in 2003, National Pyjama Day has raised more than €4.5 million to support developmental and wellbeing projects for young people across the country.
Funds raised during the day at Maggie’s will go directly toward LauraLynn’s Family Support Services. These services provide essential emotional, therapeutic, and practical care for children with palliative and complex needs, as well as their families.
Teresa Heeney, CEO of Early Childhood Ireland, noted that the day is a celebration of kindness and community. This sentiment was echoed by LauraLynn CEO Kerry McLaverty, who stated that the spirit of children helping their peers aligns perfectly with the mission of the hospice.

The CEO of Tourism Ireland, Alice Mansergh, was in Killarney on Tuesday of this week to address tourism leaders from across the county at the Kerry Tourism Industry Federation (KTIF) Tourism Day 2026.

The event, held at The Brehon Hotel & Spa, brought together a broad range of representatives from Kerry’s business community, including accommodation providers, visitor attractions, and transport services.

As a membership organisation representing tourism operators throughout the county, KTIF provides a unified voice for the sector.

During her address, Ms Mansergh outlined overseas market performance and emerging travel trends, focusing specifically on how Kerry can capitalise on international opportunities.

The morning featured a diverse line-up of speakers, including Kerry County Council Chief Executive Fearghal Reidy, who spoke on infrastructure and sustainable growth, and Miriam Kennedy, Head of the Wild Atlantic Way at Fáilte Ireland.

Technology and the economy were also central themes, with RDI Hub CEO Fergal Brosnan discussing AI and digital transformation, while global financial expert Mike O’Sullivan provided insights into international economic conditions.

Writer and publican Billy Keane also addressed the gathering, highlighting the cultural role of the Irish pub in the visitor experience.

KTIF Chairperson Pat O’Leary said the diversity of speakers reflects the interconnected nature of the industry: “Tourism in Kerry is not one single sector — it is a network of businesses and communities working together. From international marketing and economic forecasting to innovation and the unique role of our publicans, today’s discussions highlight how every element contributes to the strength of our tourism product. With representation from all regions, chambers and businesses of every scale in the county, KTIF ensures that the voice is unified and influential.”

The discussions focused on sustainability and community resilience, with significant attention given to upcoming international opportunities like the Ryder Cup 2027.