Community · Culture · Celebration
Where community, culture, and celebration converge — a year of events that embody the spirit of Ireland in the Knot in the Ring of Kerry.
At Sneem Festivals, we are dedicated to fostering a sense of community and joy through our diverse array of events and celebrations.
Nestled in the picturesque village of Sneem, County Kerry, our festivals combine rich traditions with modern entertainment to create unforgettable experiences for all — for locals, returning families, and first-time visitors alike.
The village's own St. Patrick's Day parade winds through North and South Square with floats, tractors, clubs, schools and music from the community. One of the liveliest days of the year in Sneem, with the pubs and cafés full long after the last float passes.
Everyone takes part — if your club, business or family wants a float, contact the parade committee early in the new year.
A week of family events across the village — street entertainment, music, sports and races, children's activities and evening sessions in the pubs. A long-standing fixture that brings returning families and visitors together.
Plenty for all ages, from the children's sports on the field to late trad music around the Squares.
Hosted by the Sneem Walking Club, this weekend of guided walks explores the rugged peaks and glacial lakes of the Dunkerron Mountains, the spectacular coastline of Kenmare Bay and the banks of the Sneem River. Walks for all abilities run from the Friday evening Lomanagh Loop sunset walk through to Sunday's Beann and Kerry Way routes.
A weekend walking pass is €35 — the best-value option for the full experience. Sturdy boots, waterproofs and a good level of fitness are essential for the mountain routes.
Founded in 2011 by Batt Burns, Jim and Grahame — later joined by Rosie — the inaugural festival opened in 2012 with then-Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht Jimmy Deenihan TD. Each year storytellers travel from the USA, Wales, Scotland and across Ireland to share tales in pubs and venues throughout the village.
The Young Tellers — Batt's 2013 brainchild giving young storytellers their own stage — has become one of the festival's most-loved events.
Sneem's own Halloween celebration, Samhain na Snadhma — 'Samhain of Sneem' — forms part of Kerry's Samhain Chiarraí programme, a Global Irish Festival Series organised by Kerry County Council, Fáilte Ireland and the Department of Foreign Affairs, calling the diaspora home for the festival. Spooky happenings, music and community events take over the village as the nights draw in.
The full programme of events is published on the Discover Kerry website ahead of the Halloween weekend.
