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WELL, we campaigned for it to continue and we are delighted to confirm that the Christmas in Killarney Festival is going ahead – despite fears in recent months that a €30,000 cash shortfall could lead to its cancellation.

But it’s full steam ahead for the hugely popular festival, which is now in its 13th year.
And the 2017 Christmas in Killarney line-up is set to be the most magical yet, according to organisers.
On hand to launch the festival were the Killarney Gobnaits – familiar to many from their antics during the St Patrick’s Festival Killarney.

The quartet even made a batch of Christmas puddings and mince pies especially for the occasion.
Kick-starting the Christmas in Killarney celebrations will be highly anticipated Magic Parade, when Santa and his elves along with favourite Disney characters will travel through the streets of Killarney, on Saturday, November 25, commencing at 6pm, for the traditional turning on of the Christmas lights ceremony at the Market Cross.

There will be so many opportunities for families to see Santa in the Magic Parade in the run-up to Christmas season, on Saturday, December 2, 9, 16 and 23, at 6pm. Santa and his elves will return for the grand finale of the parades on New Year’s Eve at 6pm for anyone who did not make it home to Killarney before Christmas.

The dates for the very popular Dine Killarney are confirmed: Thursday, November 30, and Thursday, December 7, dining times from 6pm to 11.30pm.

In keeping with tradition, The Gobnaits will be hosting a special Christmas in the 50s quiz, on Thursday, December 7, in The Laurels ‘Hall’, Market Cross at 8pm. Audience participation is compulsory with dress code 1950s.

As part of the exciting festival, this year’s Christmas Craft and food Fair at the Killarney Outlet Centre takes place on November 26 between 12pm and 6pm.

For further information see www.christmasinkillarney.com

 
Above: The Gobnaits launch the 13th Christmas in Killarney Festival.
Pic: Valerie O'Sullivan