Fed up of being told that “There’s no Irish in Killarney”, just over a year ago a group of young people came together to prove the sceptics wrong.

The organised the town’s first “Pop-Up Gaeltacht” and now they are preparing for its first birthday celebration.

A year ago, a modest crowd came together with the organisers in a quiet corner of Teddy O’ Connors pub Killarney.

“While the attendance was not overly impressive for that first evening last year, it was clear that a spark had been lit beneath Gaeilge in Killarney town,” said PRO Mark Cooper.

“As the months went on and the events continued to be publicised in the local media as well as through the powerful media of social media, the crowds began to arrive. Having to first move the crowd upstairs in O’Connor’s, it was only a matter of time before a new home was needed to cater for the increased demand for the Pop-Ups.

“Thankfully, a very strong relationship with Courtney’s of Plunkett Street began in October and has gone from strength to strength. The new venue has allowed us to add live music, games and to allow space for more groups to join in on the craic. With attendance on the nights exceeding 100 people on multiple occasions, attendees have remarked that the Pop-Up is one of the most enjoyable and energetic that they have seen.”

The first birthday celebration of the Pop-Up will take place in Courtney’s of Plunkett Street on Easter Saturday March 30 and the organisers hope to see the biggest crowd yet from 7:30 pm onwards,

“On the night there will be live music, special guests and the all the usual craic and conversation,” added Mark.
The night will be a true celebration of the community of Irish speakers who have been brought together over the past year by the Pop-Ups and no matter your level of Irish, all are very much welcome.”