KILLARNEY CELEBRATES FOURTH OF JULY

US VISITORS FEEL RIGHT AT HOME AS TOURIST MECCA CELEBRATES THEIR NATIONAL HOLIDAY

WHAT better way to make American tourists feel at home than throwing a bash for July 4?

That’s exactly what Killarney did with much success, welcoming everyone from Kerry natives to all our international visitors to celebrate Independence Day in the heart of the town last Wednesday.

President of Killarney Chamber of Tourism and Commerce Paul O’Neill said it was a day to remember.

“It was the best celebration yet. We’ve really set the standard high for future years,” Paul said. “The party started at 3pm and continued until midnight.

“It began with the ceremonial part, the raising of the flag at the Town Hall by myself and the Mayor. The day continued with ‘ The Big Parade’, street party, barbecues, music and entertainment.

“The showing of Dirty Dancing drew a great crowd in, and the fireworks display was the perfect end to the night.”

With everything happening around him, Paul said the best part was simply seeing everyone in the massive crowd having fun: “It was great seeing the smiles on the faces of our Americans tourists – they loved it. But really, it was about all the international visitors that are here.

“It couldn’t have been done without everyone involved. We owe a massive thank you to all.

“We’re already starting to wonder what to do next year. Roll it on!”

Photos by Valerie O’Sullivan RIGHT: Saffra and Henry McCarthy with their Dad, Adrian McCarthy, in independent, celebratory mood as they have a blast at the July 4 fun in Killarney.

Photos by Valerie O’Sullivan Fourth of July Celebrations Committee Chairperson Diarmuid Leen, with Eileen O’Donoghue and Eileen O’Connor, Killarney Municipal District Office, on the streets of Killarney with Uncle Sam.

Photos by Valerie O’Sullivan Airborne: Members of Killarney Scorchers Cheerleading group soar to the heavens at the annual Killarney July 4 celebrations, which involved an evening parade, an outdoor screening of ‘Dirty Dancing’ in the Killarney National Park, and finished with a...

The three amigo:. Sean O’Donoghue, Jack Patrick Healy – dressed most appropriately indeed for the US-themed celebrations – and Mike Keane.

ABOVE: Neasa O’Sullivan in rhythm with the music as she tries out the drums during the July 4 fun in Killarney last week.

Photos by Valerie O’Sullivan The Wild West Troupe up to their hilarious antics during the colourful procession that brought Killarney to a standstill in honour of US independence on July 4.