News
Killarney National Park in full bloom as cherry blossoms return
Killarney National Park in full bloom as cherry blossoms return
The arrival of spring has been officially marked in Killarney with the annual appearance of the much-loved cherry blossoms, turning the grounds of Killarney House and Gardens into a vibrant spectacle of pink and white.
Known as Sakura, these blossoms are a traditional symbol of renewal. The annual showcase is currently at its peak, with local gardeners noting that the trees are in excellent condition this season. One of the most popular vantage points for visitors is the opening along the main pathway, which offers a framed view of St Mary’s Cathedral through the blooming branches.
The cherry blossoms are deciduous trees that typically bloom between April and May. However, the exact timing and duration of the display are heavily dependent on local weather conditions.
Despite their striking appearance, the blossoms remain notoriously fragile. National Park staff are hopeful for a calm spell, as a strong easterly wind from Lough Leane has been known to bring a premature end to the season by stripping the petals in a single afternoon.
The full-colour spectacle has been captured this week by photographers Valerie O’Sullivan, highlighting one of the most photographed natural events in the Killarney calendar. Visitors are encouraged to visit the gardens soon to catch the display before the delicate petals fall.
Jordan Lee selected for Ireland’s Para Athletics relay team
Killarney Valley AC has celebrated another historic milestone following the selection of international Paralympic athlete Jordan Lee for Team Ireland’s first-ever Para Athletics 4x100m Universal Relay squad.
The selection marks a landmark step for Irish Para Athletics, with the newly formed team focusing its long-term sights on the Los Angeles 2028 Paralympic Games. Jordan, a high-jump specialist, has recently added the shot putt to his competitive disciplines, and his performance through recent trials secured his place in this groundbreaking relay unit.
The Universal Relay is a unique event in Para Athletics, featuring athletes from different impairment groups competing together. Everyone at KVAC and across the town has extended their best wishes to Jordan as he prepares to represent Ireland on the global stage.
KIFF Film Club to screen Gerry Adams documentary
The Kerry International Film Festival (KIFF) Film Club continues its monthly series next week with a screening of the award-winning documentary, Gerry Adams: A Ballymurphy Man.
The screening will take place on Wednesday, April 22, at 8:00pm at Cinema Killarney. Supported by Screen Ireland, the film club aims to bring modern Irish cinema to local audiences in a relaxed and social environment.
Directed by Trisha Ziff and winner of the Best International Documentary award at the 2025 Galway Film Fleadh, the film offers an intimate and uncensored portrait of the former Sinn Féin leader. Filmed over five years, it traces his journey from a teenage activist in Belfast to a key architect of the Good Friday Agreement, featuring previously unseen archival footage and personal reflections.
Jordan Lee selected for Ireland’s Para Athletics relay team
Jordan Lee selected for Ireland’s Para Athletics relay team Killarney Valley AC has celebrated another historic milestone following the selection...
KIFF Film Club to screen Gerry Adams documentary
KIFF Film Club to screen Gerry Adams documentary The Kerry International Film Festival (KIFF) Film Club continues its monthly series...
Members of the Killarney Racegoers Club pictured at Linehan’s Bar for the presentation of a €2,000 cheque to the Kerry Hospice Foundation
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