The Gleneagle Arena is set to become a global hub of culture and competition this Easter as it hosts the An Chomhdháil World Irish Dancing Championships.

The prestigious event brings a vibrant mix of music and international talent to the town, with local dancers ready to step onto the world stage in their own backyard.

This year, Killarney is proudly represented by a dedicated troop from the Hegarty Irish Dance Academy.

Dancers Abbey O’Leary, Maria Blennerhasset, Klara Morczewska, Máire Lynch, and Isabelle Hindle have spent countless hours preparing for the tournament.

Under the expert guidance of teachers Maureen and Lisa Hegarty, these dancers now have the opportunity to compete at the highest level before an international audience.

Beyond the cultural spectacle, the championships provide a massive boost to the local economy. More than 2,500 dancers, along with their families and supporters, will travel to Killarney for the event.

Killarney talent bound for Isle of Man

The busy Easter schedule continues for the Hegarty Irish Dance Academy as they prepare for an international cultural exchange.

At the end of this week, a group of 25 dancers and musicians travelled to the Isle of Man.

The group will represent Ireland at the Shennaghys Jiu Celtic Festival, a celebration of music, dance, and folklore from the Celtic nations.

The travelling party will showcase the best of Killarney’s traditional arts, further strengthening the town’s international sporting and cultural links.

Several of Killarney’s most popular annual events are set to benefit from a new round of financial support following the allocation of the Kerry County Council Festival and Participative Events funding for 2026.

Among the successful applicants is the rebranded Killarney Summer Festival, which received an allocation of €1,546.

While the full schedule of events has yet to be officially unveiled, a spokesperson for the Killarney Chamber of Tourism and Commerce indicated that the festival will provide a significant draw during the peak season.

They stated that the public can look forward to a programme running throughout June and July featuring lively parades, live music, entertainment, and movies in the park.

The Chamber expects the full programme to launch shortly, promising family fun and activities that cater to all ages.

The funding spread also highlights the diversity of Killarney’s event calendar, ranging from elite sporting competitions to international cultural showcases. The Kerry Way Ultra was awarded €1,596 to support its endurance race, while the Kerry International Film Festival secured €1,900 as it prepares for its October schedule.

Outdoor enthusiasts will also see the benefit of €1,343 allocated to the Kerry Festival of Orienteering.

In addition to the summer and autumn highlights, the winter season has been considered with €1,495 granted to the Christmas in Killarney festival.

This funding will assist in the coordination of the town’s seasonal celebrations and parades which have become a staple for local families and visitors alike.