Killarney was the centre of the Irish tourism world this Tuesday and Wednesday as the Gleneagle Arena hosted Meitheal 2026.

As the largest and most significant trade event in the national industry, the flagship showcase brings together 267 international tourism buyers and operators to meet with 402 Irish tourism providers.

The event, organised by Fáilte Ireland in partnership with Tourism Ireland, is expected to result in significant business deals.

Over 11,000 scheduled sales meetings will take place between Irish businesses and high-level operators from 17 countries, including the USA, Great Britain, Germany, Canada, the UAE, and Australia.

Focus on new experiences and regional growth
The showcase highlights the best of the Wild Atlantic Way, Ireland’s Ancient East, Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands, and Dublin.

This year, almost 40 new tourism experiences are featured for the first time, ranging from heritage sites and craft studios to unique culinary tours.

Speaking on the impact of the sector, Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment Peter Burke TD said:
“Tourism is one of Ireland’s most important employers and a cornerstone of balanced regional economic development, with one in ten jobs supported by the sector. Delivering sustainable and evenly spread growth in tourism is a key objective of the national tourism policy which I launched last year, and trade events like Meitheal are central to achieving that ambition. Last year, overseas visitors generated €6 billion for the economy, supporting thousands of SMEs and sustaining livelihoods in communities right across the country. To remain competitive, we must continue showcasing the very best of Ireland to the world, from our cultural heritage to our world class hospitality and unique food experiences.”

Driving commercial opportunity
Prior to arriving in Killarney, international buyers took part in bespoke itineraries across the country to experience Irish hospitality first-hand.

Caroline Bocquel, CEO of Fáilte Ireland, emphasised the practical business nature of the gathering:
“Meitheal is where Ireland’s tourism industry comes together to do real business. Its power lies in the direct access it gives Irish tourism providers to high value international tour operators, buyers who collectively shape the travel decisions of hundreds of thousands of visitors every year. This is where global demand is translated into commercial opportunity. By working closely with industry partners to give these buyers a true sense of what sets Ireland apart, we help secure future business that supports jobs, strengthens communities and drives regional economies. This year, almost 40 new saleable tourism experiences are joining Meitheal for the first time, reflecting the innovation and creativity of businesses nationwide. Continually refreshing and evolving our offering is essential to keeping Ireland competitive in the global tourism marketplace.”

The 2026 event also places a heavy emphasis on sustainability. Organisers have designed every detail, from food sourcing to travel arrangements, to minimise the environmental impact and reduce the overall carbon footprint of the massive two-day gathering.

Accordion master Liam O’Connor and his musically gifted family joined a contingent from Killarney who were afforded the full VIP treatment in Verrès, a small town in the Aosta Valley to the north-west of Turin in Italy, during the area’s annual carnival.

Killarney has struck up a very strong bond and friendship with Verrès since 2020 through Davide Mosca, a native son who grew up there before moving to Kerry set up business as an architect.
During their stay, the Killarney party enjoyed all the colour and excitement of the historic Carnevale Verrès which is a huge hit every year.
This year Paul Sherry, an annual visitor to Verrès and manager of the Killarney Outlet Centre, was presented with the prestigious Supremus Ordo medal as a guest of honour for the four-day Mardi Gras style festival,
The honour consists of a medallion bearing the local coat of arms and it is presented to those who, in the festival committee’s opinion, have contributed significantly to the success of the carnival.
According to legend dating back to the 1400s, the Count and Countess left Verrès Castle to join locals in a pre-Lent village celebration and the colourful tradition has been upheld since then in the form of the Carnevale Verrès
Liam O’Connor and his family played two concerts in the majestic surroundings of Verres Castle which highlighted Ireland’s incredible culture and talent to the Italian people.
The festival’s distinctive knights, costumed soldiers and drummers enjoyed a return trip and paraded through the streets of Killarney on St Patrick’s Day and they were led by the Mayor of Verres Alessandro Giovenzi.
The 57-strong party, joined by 25 close neighbours, were also accorded a civic reception by the Mayor of Killarney Cllr Martin Grady.