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Wander Wild Festival announces expansions for 2026

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The organisers of the Wander Wild Festival have officially announced a significant expansion to this year’s schedule, introducing over 40 brand-new activities for the upcoming event. Running from April 17 to 19, Ireland’s premier outdoor, culture, and wellness festival will now feature more than 160 immersive experiences.

Set within the 26,000-acre UNESCO-protected Killarney National Park, the festival continues to establish itself as a national leader in nature-based adventure and community connection.

The latest wave of announcements introduces a diverse mix of high-energy mountain adventures and intimate cultural performances.

Among the standout new additions is a Social Summit of Mangerton led by Tadgh O’Brien, alongside a special screening of Ellie Berry’s short film which documents her world-record achievement of climbing all 275 Irish mountains over 600m. For those looking to sharpen their technical skills, the 2026 programme includes a mountain scrambling masterclass on some of the country's most challenging ridges and a trail-running masterclass hosted by Irish International runner Matthew McConnell.

Heritage and nature remain central to the festival’s identity. New experiences for this year include a Monastic Ruins tour, temperate woodland and waterfall explorations, and wild-food foraging workshops.

Those seeking a unique perspective on the park's landscape can join Killian Buckley to explore the hidden mountain valleys of The Horses Glen or participate in a Dawn Chorus Walk to experience the natural symphony of the park at daybreak.

Culture and connection are further highlighted through new collaborations. The "Echoes of Earth and Water" event combines a traditional boat journey with a guided walk, while the TAWLA Collective will host "Supper & Stories," an intimate dining experience inspired by the flavours of Palestine, Egypt, and Lebanon.

As evening approaches, the festival's atmosphere shifts toward music and storytelling. Kean Kavanagh is set to perform at St Mary’s Church, while a series of "Fireside Chats" will feature guests like Chris Barrett and members of the How to Gael trio sharing stories of resilience and exploration.

Families are also a primary focus this year with an expanded ‘Wildlings’ schedule. New family-oriented activities include a folklore walk with author Barry Coleman, Yoga Óige, and nature-themed LEGO workshops.

These join returning favourites such as Gruffalo adventure hunts and family orienteering.

These new additions complement over 120 established festival favourites, including the Dark Sky Hike, "Rave ar Róthar" cycling disco, and the lakeside sauna experience at Dundag.

Organisers remain committed to a low-impact, eco-friendly ethos, encouraging attendees to choose sustainable travel and accommodation.

With ticket prices ranging from €10 to €95 and several free events available, early booking is strongly recommended via wanderwildfestival.com following the sell-out success of previous years.

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Drivers warned as deer rutting season begins

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Drivers warned as deer rutting season begins


Motorists in Killarney are being urged to exercise extreme caution as the annual deer rutting season gets underway, causing animals to stray far beyond their usual habitats inside Killarney National Park.


The autumn mating season sees deer becoming highly active and unpredictable, leading to increased sightings and collisions on local roads outside traditional park boundaries.
Two separate incidents highlighted the growing hazard on local routes this week. A reader contacted the Killarney Advertiser to warn drivers after spotting a deer roaming near Tiernaboul towards the school on Sunday afternoon around 7.30pm.
Later that same night, in the early hours of Monday morning, a local driver collided with a deer near Kerry Airport around 1am while returning home from an event.
Despite attempting evasive action, the motorist struck the animal, which died at the scene and temporarily blocked the road before local Gardaí were alerted to clear the obstruction.
The driver sustained substantial vehicle damage, requiring repairs to the bumper, headlamp, and internal components, leaving her facing significant garage costs and time off the road.
Gardaí and road safety advocates advise motorists travelLing during early morning and late evening and remain vigilant along tree-lined routes.

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Kerry Airport CEO addresses chamber luncheon

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Kerry Airport chief executive Adrian Neilan addressed local business leaders at the Killarney Chamber of Tourism and Commerce luncheon at the Killarney Heights Hotel.

Mr Neilan outlined the airport’s strategy, focusing on regional connectivity, customer experience, safety, and financial strength.

He noted that regional road, rail, and air links remain vital for residents, local businesses, and the tourism sector.


Addressing route development, Mr Neilan explained that airlines look closely at load factor alongside overall passenger volume.

In July, select Kerry routes achieved load factors of up to 99 per cent.

The airport currently has six confirmed meetings scheduled with prospective carriers to discuss further expansion.


Kerry Airport recorded its busiest year on record in 2025, handling 440,000 passengers.

Mr Neilan highlighted the importance of domestic and European connectivity for business, education, healthcare, and family travel, noting that attracting new services requires a collective effort between local hoteliers, transport operators, and regional businesses.


The luncheon also featured an address by Cllr Niall Kelleher, chairperson of Christmas in Killarney, who introduced the launch and updated branding for this year’s festival, urging the local community and trade sector to rally behind the event.
Photos: Eamonn Keogh

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