Kerry Summer 2024 Festivals Guide - What's On?

Did you know Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann in County Wexford draws half a million people every year¹? Kerry is also a top choice for many, offering unique cultural experiences in the summer.

This Kerry Summer 2024 Festivals Guide showcases a variety of activities and events. The Gleneagle Summer Fest runs from June 30th to August 25th and features artists such as Mike Denver and Jimmy Buckley². There’s also the Dingle International Film Festival in April³. Plus, over 20 events can be enjoyed on the Dingle Peninsula³. Kerry ensures a packed schedule of lively Irish festivals to spice up your summer.

Key Takeaways:

The Gleneagle Summer Fest runs from June 30th to August 25th².
Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann attracts half a million attendees annually¹.
Dingle hosts over 20 vibrant events during the summer festivals in 2024³.
The Dingle International Film Festival takes place from April 19th to 21st³.
Kerry offers a mix of dance, music, film, and unique Irish cultural festivals.

Introduction

Welcome to the ultimate guide to what’s happening in Kerry in 2024. This area in Ireland is known for its fun festivals, which both locals and visitors love to join. Expect a lot of joy and great stories at these events.

Overview of Festivals in Kerry

Kerry, especially the Dingle Peninsula, shines with its famous festivals all year round. Next summer, there will be lots happening – from art, music, cultural events to outdoor fun. Féile na Bealtaine, starting on May 1st, is a must-visit for its arts and cultural shows since 1994³. In fact, the Dingle Peninsula alone will have over 20 events, ensuring there’s something for everyone³.

What to Expect in 2024

For sporty types, the Dingle Adventure Race has routes suitable for all, from 21 km to 30 miles³. Animation Dingle on March 22nd-23rd celebrates the best in animation and stories³. Foodies will love the Dingle Food & Wine Festival, showcasing local and international cuisines³.

Music fans, look forward to ‘Other Voices’ in December, highlighting Dingle’s music scene³. July and August bring Ventry & Ballydavid Regattas and more, making for a lively summer in Kerry³. Also, the Listowel International Storytelling Festival promises lots of great tales¹.

For those into sports, Ride Dingle offers beautiful cycling courses on April 27th. Dun Laoghaire to Dingle Yacht Race is a must for sailing fans³. Mark your calendars for the Wander Wild Festival on March 22nd-24th, all about outdoor fun and nature⁴.

Kerry’s 2024 events, from small races to big cultural celebrations, will surely entertain. Let’s all get ready to enjoy Kerry’s lively festival season. The spirit of these events makes Kerry special to everyone.

Féile na Bealtaine – Music & Arts Festival

Féile na Bealtaine is a thrilling start to summer, bursting with vivid art. It unfolds in the Dingle Peninsula, a hotspot for Kerry’s culture and art. It pulls in a mix of people, both locals and visitors, to celebrate.

Celebrating the Arrival of Summer

In the Kerry Summer 2024 Festivals Guide, Féile na Bealtaine shines bright⁵. It’s famous for uniting the community and sparking new life each May. This arts fest in Dingle mixes old and new, delighting all with Irish culture highlights⁵

Programme Highlights

The festival’s lineup is a feast for the senses, from music and arts to workshops and film. Animation Dingle, a key event, links professionals with students for learning and fun⁵. Don’t miss the Pilgrim Path’s breathtaking 18km hike, offering exercise and cultural insight⁵.

Key Venues and Attractions

Iconic locations like Benners Hotel host events, from small gigs to grand shows. The festival also includes local activities, like sandcastle contests and traditional regattas, adding community flavour⁵. With such a variety, Féile na Bealtaine marks a key spot in Kerry’s arts and music scene.

The Dingle Adventure Race

The Dingle Adventure Race is very exciting. People from all over the world come to Kerry for this event. It takes place on June 8th, 2024. The race challenges even the best athletes with its tough courses and stunning views⁶.

Course Descriptions

There are three courses to pick from. The DAR is 30 miles long. The DAR Sport is 26 miles with less steep parts. The DAR Mini has different lengths for biking, kayaking, and running. They all show off Dingle’s amazing scenery, adding to Kerry’s summer fun³.

How to Participate

To join, register on the event’s website. You can choose your category based on your fitness and age. This openness allows both beginners and experts to enjoy the race. The registration is simple. You get maps and course details after signing up. By participating, you’re part of a famous Kerry event⁶.

Supporting Local Charities

The Dingle Adventure Race helps local charities. It is linked with the Ride Dingle Cycle Event’s charity work. This event is more than a race. It’s about supporting Dingle’s community. Money raised goes to help local projects. So, the fun in Kerry gives back to its people. This shows the race is about more than just being fit. It’s about supporting each other in Dingle and beyond⁵.

Dingle International Film Festival

The Dingle International Film Festival is a highlight in the Irish event calendar. It’s praised for its special setting and varied line-up.

Film Screenings and Workshops

The event in April 2024 promises to be amazing. It will showcase a mix of Irish and global films, suitable for many⁷. Besides fantastic movies, there will be seminars for 300 people. These seminars will cover key film topics like directing, producing, and writing⁷.

Full-day masterclasses will feature experts in the field. John Sayles and Maggie Renzi will focus on film production and art direction⁷. Owen McPolin will also teach about the art of filming⁷. Plus, Ros Hubbard will guide aspiring actors, helping them learn from her experience launching stars⁷.

Exclusive Previews and Premieres

The Dingle Festival stands out in the Irish festival scene. It’s known for its animation event, Animation Dingle, on March 22-23⁶. This festival also shares early looks and premieres. This year, it will spotlight films by local and international directors⁷.

With its scenic setting in Daingean Uí Chúis, it’s more than just films. It’s a blend of art, learning, and beautiful surroundings. This mix is what makes it a top event in Kerry for 2024⁷.

Féile Cheoil an tSamhraidh

The annual Féile Cheoil an tSamhraidh is a highlight of Kerry’s music calendar. It happens at the end of May. The focus is on choral and chamber music performances. It brings together Kerry’s cultural heritage and musicians from around the world⁸⁹.

This festival is part of County Kerry’s lively scene. It highlights the music culture of the Dingle Peninsula. The National Folk Theatre Choir gave a great performance on May 19th at St Vincent’s Church Ballyferriter. Beyond music, visitors feel the festival’s artistic spirit.

Dingle’s beauty, with its coast and mountains, sets a great scene for the event. It offers a magical experience for everyone there. Dingle’s strong support for local arts and music makes it a fitting place for such festivals. The stunning area and music combine for an unforgettable time at Féile Cheoil an tSamhraidh¹⁰.

Dingle also hosts other festivals, like the Dingle Food Festival and ‘Other Voices.’ These events offer rich music and cultural experiences. Everyone is welcomed to enjoy the diverse music scene of Kerry in the summer of 2024 in Dingle⁸.

Event	Date	Location
Féile Cheoil an tSamhraidh	End of May, 2024	Dingle, County Kerry
National Folk Theatre Choir Recital	19th May, 2024	St Vincent’s Church, Ballyferriter
Gardiner Street Gospel Choir Concert	18th May, 2024	The Helix
Other Voices Festival	December, 2024	Dingle, County Kerry

Ride Dingle Cycle Event

The Ride Dingle Cycle Event is a big deal in Kerry’s outdoor calendar. It’s on April 27th, 2024. There are two routes, 55km and 120km, to attract cyclists of all levels. People come from all over to join in⁶¹¹¹².

Event Details

This event happens in the charming Dingle town. It lets cyclists see the breathtaking Dingle Peninsula. If you love cycling, or it’s your first time in Kerry, this event is both fun and tough⁶.

Courses and Scenic Routes

The event has many routes. You can choose the hard 135km Tralee to Dingle Cycle or the beautiful 216km Ring of Kerry¹². And for families, there’s the easy 27km cycle through Killarney National Park¹². Kerry’s stunning landscapes and coastal views make it perfect for outdoor lovers.

One of the highlights is cycling around the Slea Head coastline. The views are stunning, making it an unforgettable part of the event¹². For those who want more challenge, there’s the 56km Gap of Dunloe and the 110km Ring of the Reeks. These routes test your cycling endurance¹².

The Dun Laoghaire to Dingle Yacht Race

One of Kerry’s top events in 2024 is the Dun Laoghaire to Dingle Yacht Race. It’s set for June 11, 2025. This event is a thrill for those who love to sail¹³. Dingle Harbour is where it all happens, known as Ireland’s most westerly marina. It has 100 berths, including 20 for visitors¹⁴. At the marina, sailors find important services like power, fuel, showers, and laundry¹⁴. The race itself is exciting, covering 320 miles of Ireland’s beautiful east and south coasts¹⁴.

This yacht race means more than winning; it helps the local area. The Dingle Peninsula sees a boost in tourism and its economy thanks to the event¹⁵. Dingle is famous for its lively Summer events and offers fun water sports like angling and surfing¹⁴.

The race is really popular on social media, with lots of likes and shares. This helps it draw big crowds each year¹⁵. More and more sailors join in every year, showing the race’s increasing popularity among sailing fans¹⁵. With its stunning sights, competitive spirit, and rich local life, don’t miss this event in Kerry’s lively Summer festivities¹⁴¹³.

Festivals in Kerry summer 2024

Summer 2024 in Kerry is set to be exciting. It will be full of Irish cultural festivals and family events. There will be music, arts, and plenty of activities for everyone.

Music Festivals

The Chamber Music on Valentia Festival’s 10th year is from August 17 to 20. It will have concerts and music workshops¹⁶. Also, Síamsa Tíre Tralee is planning a thrilling event. They have an amazing music line-up for 2024¹⁶.

Arts Festivals

The 36th Kerry Drama Festival will be at The Ivy Leaf Theatre for nine nights¹⁶. Art lovers shouldn’t miss the exhibitions at Síamsa Tíre Tralee¹⁶.

Family-friendly Events

Kids and families will love the Ballylongford Festival on August 5 and 6. It will have fun activities like the Blacksmiths Fair and Oyster Festival¹⁶. The Killarney Bike Fest is a big draw, expecting 600,000 visitors. This provides a lot of fun for families¹⁷. The Listowel Storytellers Festival is great too, starting in 2019. It comes in mid-September, perfect for families¹⁷.

Festival	Dates	Events
Chamber Music on Valentia	August 17-20	Concerts, Immersive Experiences, Workshops
Ballylongford Festival	August 5-6	Blacksmiths Fair, Basketmakers, Oyster Festival
Kerry Drama Festival	9 Nights	Drama Performances
Killarney Bike Fest	2024	Family-friendly events

Kerry Food Festivals

In Kerry, the summer sun shines on special events. These draw both local and visiting food lovers to enjoy tasty dishes. They also celebrate the area’s food traditions.

Culinary Highlights

Kerry’s food festivals have something for all tastes. The famous Dingle Food Festival happens in October. Then, the Listowel Food Fair follows in November¹⁸.

These events show off the area’s unique food. They also let you in on the secrets of Kerry’s cooking art. They are more than just food. They are a chance to learn and enjoy.

Signature Dishes and Chefs

Kerry’s food festivals are special because they use local foods and talents. Kerry lamb and fresh seafood are big hits. Chefs make amazing dishes, from Tralee’s to Valentia’s festivals¹⁸.

You can taste traditional meals with new twists. It’s a journey full of flavour. These festivals make for unforgettable experiences. They mix the old and the new in food.

Key Locations

In Kerry, food vibes are everywhere. There are events like the Cromane SeaFest and the Dingle Food Festival. They show how important the coast is to food love¹⁸.

Each place brings its own magic. Whether the lively Tralee or peaceful Dingle. Every stop is a treat for the senses and the soul.

The Kerry food festivals are a must-visit. They mix local tastes with global cultural experiences. These events celebrate food, community, and the region’s rich history in a vibrant way.

Kerry Outdoor Events

The summer of 2024 in Kerry is set to burst with outdoor fun. It will suit everyone’s taste. From the Dingle Adventure Race to the Ride Dingle Cycle Event, there’s something for all. The Dingle Adventure Race mixes biking, hiking, running, and kayaking on the Dingle Peninsula’s beautiful land on June 8th⁵. The Ride Dingle Cycle Event, featuring 120km and 55km routes, helps local causes on April 27th⁵.

Summer in Kerry means loads of outdoor excitement. It connects you with nature in unique ways. The Rally of the Lakes in May is a treat for car fans against stunning lake views⁴. Then, in June, the Ireland BikeFest Killarney, with its charity work and big crowd, uplifts everyone⁴. Find out more about upcoming Kerry festivals at upcoming festivals in Killarney.

Kerry keeps families entertained with summer delights. The Killarthy Kidsfest and Teddy Bears’ Picnic are great for kids. They include storytelling, puppet shows, and crafts⁴. Puck Fair in Killorglin, in August, is a must-see, offering parades, music, and tradition⁴.

Sport and festival fans will have a blast in Kerry’s great outdoors. The Dingle Peninsula will be busy with events. Including Gaelic Football on February 24th–25th, it welcomes local and global teams⁵. The Cork Harbour Festival in June spans nine days and 12 locations. It offers over 80 events; water sports, walks, and maritime history¹. Don’t miss out. Visit the Dingle events page for more.

Village Festivals and Local Celebrations

In Kerry, village festivals and local celebrations showcase a deep sense of Irish community and heritage. They are perfect chances for visitors to join local traditions. These events capture the joy of summer, enveloping the area in a festive mood.

Traditional Naomhóg Regattas

The Dingle Peninsula is famous for its Naomhóg regattas. Here, local rowers show off their skills in these unique wooden boats. Beyond being races, they shine a spotlight on Kerry’s rich maritime legacy⁵. These Kerry family events are great for a summer day out, mixing sport with history and culture.

Community Feasts and Fêtes

Community feasts and festive fêtes are essential parts of village festivals. During summer, Kerry’s village squares buzz with arts festivals. They include lively sessions of music, dance, and stories⁵. The Ballinclare Horse Fair is particularly significant, offering culture and a place for families to come together¹⁷.

These events mark Kerry’s summer calendar, giving a true feel of Irish life. Joining a Naomhóg regatta or sitting at a community feast, visitors can truly engage in the Kerry sense of community.

West Kerry Agricultural Show

The West Kerry Agricultural Show shines in Kerry events 2024, giving a colourful peek into local farming customs and traditions. Set in the lovely Dingle Peninsula, this yearly happening is filled with exciting competitions, shows, and fun for everyone. You’ll see animals being judged, horse shows, crafts, and local food at every turn¹⁹.

Aside from the farm exhibits, there’s also traditional music, family fun, and trying out local dishes. These cultural and fun parts make sure there’s something for all, showing off the lively spirit of West Kerry¹⁹.

You can learn about sustainable farming in talks and see new farming tech in action. These sessions, run by specialists, show the show’s focus on top-notch farming and taking care of the land¹⁹.

Plus, the show works with local charities, which means money made helps the community. This caring approach makes the event more special and encourages folks to come together and give¹⁹.

In short, the West Kerry Agricultural Show is a gem, full of Dingle Peninsula’s charm and heritage. It offers lots of things to do and learn for everyone. This event stands for Kerry’s rich farming history and is key in the Kerry events 2024 schedule.

The Dingle Food & Wine Festival

In the heart of Kerry, the Dingle Food & Wine Festival shines. It mixes local and global tastes in a gorgeous setting. Here, you can love wine or food equally, finding endless delights⁵.

Local and International Flavours

This festival is known for bringing together local foods and wines from far off lands. Renowned chefs share their best dishes. And wines from every corner of the globe are ready to be tasted. It’s becoming a key event in Dingle’s food story, standing out among others, like the Tralee Food Festival, held in May²⁰.

Must-Try Foods and Wines

You won’t want to miss the incredible food and drink at this festival. Explore seafood straight from the sea, or bite into local cheeses. You can even try spirits made right there. And meet the people who make the food, learning about their love for Kerry’s culinary history. It’s really a food lover’s paradise.

Festival Schedule

Mark your calendars from October 4th to 6th, 2024, for the festival²¹. There will be tastings, workshops, and more to enjoy. It’s not just for adults either – families will find plenty to do together. With so much to offer, the event makes Kerry a top choice for food enthusiasts²¹.

And there’s more! Kerry’s calendar is full of food festivals, like the Burren Slow Food Festival²¹.

For further details on this event and more, visit Dingle events to stay updated on the latest happenings throughout the year.

Other Voices Music Festival

The Other Voices Music Festival is a highlight in Kerry’s music scene. It stands out because of its special vibe in Dingle, Kerry. This vibe adds to the joy of everyone there, from the crowd to the artists²².

Many artists from all over the globe go to Dingle for this festival. They see it as a chance to share their music in a unique place like Dingle²². The festival’s charm and intimate feel draw not just artists but also fans looking for something different in Ireland’s music scene²².

Line-up and Performances

The festival’s line-up is always looked forward to. It includes new and well-known musicians, making it a lively event²². Artists love playing here. They even move their plans just to come because they feel a connection to Dingle and the event²².

Unique Venues

The places where this festival is held are amazing. They go from cosy pubs to beautiful outdoor spots. Each place brings its own magic to the music²².

Dingle has a long history of hosting great acts, and Other Voices is a big part of that. It’s a must-see for those who love Kerry’s music scene and its stunning views²³. The festival helps show off Dingle’s strong music tradition, proving the area is rich in culture²⁴.

Event	Date
Other Voices Music Festival	December (Exact Dates To Be Confirmed)
Live at the Marquee	May 24 – June 29
Beyond the Pale	June 21-23
Longitude	June 29-30

Conclusion

Wrapping up our look into Kerry’s summer 2024 festivals shows us why early planning matters. These events, like the Dingle International Film Festival and the Dingle Adventure Race, are hugely popular. With a mix of culture and fun, Kerry attracts people from everywhere²⁵.

The festival calendar on the Dingle Peninsula speaks volumes about its joyful nature. It includes Naomhóg Regattas and the Other Voices Music Festival. We’re excited about the music festivals and fun for all ages yet to come²⁵²⁶.

Events in Dingle, such as Féile na Bealtaine and the West Kerry Agricultural Show, show the area’s commitment to its heritage. Summer festivals are more than fun; they are part of the community’s identity¹⁷.

To end, don’t miss Kerry’s 2024 festivals, whether you love them or are new to such experiences. With food delights and celebrations in the villages, there’s plenty to do. Come enjoy Kerry’s lively and welcoming scene this festivity season.

FAQ

What are the most anticipated festivals in Kerry during summer 2024?

In summer 2024, Kerry will bustle with excitement. Féile na Bealtaine, the Dingle Adventure Race, and the Dingle International Film Festival are among the highlights. They show off Kerry’s lively culture and love for music, adventure, and film.

Which festivals should we attend if we are interested in music and arts?

For a dose of music and arts, head to Féile na Bealtaine and the Other Voices Music Festival. You’ll enjoy performances by artists from Kerry and beyond. These events are perfect to soak up Kerry’s music history and love for arts.

Are there family-friendly events in Kerry during the summer?

Absolutely, Kerry’s summer calendar is packed with family events. Think village festivals, Naomhóg Regattas, and big community meals. They’re full of fun things for everyone, making them ideal for family outings.

What should we expect from the Dingle Adventure Race?

On June 8th, 2024, the Dingle Adventure Race will test your endurance. It mixes running, cycling, and kayaking with views of the Dingle Peninsula. Not to mention, it’s all for a good cause, supporting local charities.

Can you tell us more about the West Kerry Agricultural Show?

The West Kerry Agricultural Show is a vibrant celebration of farming and local life. Get ready for livestock shows and fun activities for the family. It’s a chance to dive into Kerry’s rich culture.

What makes the Dingle Food & Wine Festival special?

The Dingle Food & Wine Festival celebrates the best of food and drink. It’s a feast for the senses, with exquisite dishes and wine tastings. For anyone who loves good food, it’s an event not to be missed.

Are there any unique outdoor events in Kerry during the summer?

Indeed, Kerry has plenty of one-of-a-kind outdoor events. Think the Dingle Adventure Race, Ride Dingle cycling event, and the Dun Laoghaire to Dingle Yacht Race. They’re perfect for fitness fans and those who seek new challenges in Kerry’s stunning landscapes.

What kind of activities can we expect at village festivals and local celebrations?

Local events in Kerry are rich in tradition and warmth. See Naomhóg Regattas and join local boat races. Plus, enjoy feasts, live music, and dances that show off Kerry’s welcoming community spirit.