The Irish are famous for their easy going and good humoured attitude to life. The Ring of Kerry region has an enviable reputation for its popular cultural and sporting events, which are loved by locals and visitors alike. Bars and nightspots can be found in the smallest villages and local festivals are held throughout the year.

There are excellent arts and music festivals throughout the year and the pubs are always busy with music “sessions” (live traditional music) and traditional Irish dancing. Sets are danced two or three times a week throughout the year and there has been a revival in house dances and kitchen dances.

Gaelic Football

The Skellig region has a strong culture and heritage in sporting fields, most notably in Gaelic football. The region has produced some of the most outstanding sportsmen. Names like Mick O’Dwyer, Mick O’Connell, Jack O’Shea and Maurice Fitzgerald have defined the game of Gaelic football in Ireland and have become legends in their own lifetimes.

There’s an electrifying atmosphere at the local Gaelic football matches. There are local matches held on most Sunday afternoons. For furtherinformation, refer to local newspapers or contact the local Tourist Information Offices.

Regattas

A Regatta is a day of boat racing events, which date back to as early as 1875 in southwest Kerry. Regattas take place throughout the region during the summer months. One of the favourite events is the Seine Boat race. Seine boats are timber built boats that hold 12 oars men and a coxswain and were commonly used in the last century by fisherman in the Iveragh Peninsula.