Experience Thrills, Mindfulness, and Natural Beauty at Ireland’s Wander Wild Festival in Killarney! Over 30 new events, an expanded wellness hub, an extended base camp at this year’s festival. Exciting additions include a Dark Sky Astrology Hike, paddleboarding, live workshops and music, market stalls, healing soundbaths, and yoga nidra gaeilge.
Get ready for a weekend of adventure and serenity at the Wander Wild Festival in Killarney – Ireland’s great outdoors festival. Set against the picturesque backdrop of the UNESCO Killarney National Park, the unique adventure and wellness festival returns to Killarney from 22-24th March 2024.
Wander Wild Festival, sponsored by Nature Valley and supported by Failte Ireland & Kerry County Council has unveiled an array of new events designed to cater to the body, mind, and soul of every adventurer. Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie seeking thrilling experiences or a nature enthusiast who loves going off the beaten track, this festival has something for everyone.
Over the weekend, attendees will have the chance to explore new adventures and recharge amidst stunning scenic landscapes. Dive into the refreshing waters, embark on hikes up mountains or climbs along ridges, discover the national park by horseback, swim or kayak on the picturesque lakes, embrace nature with some paddleboarding or wild swimming, enjoy a therapeutic wellness activity, or savour sustainable local cuisine on a food trail . Wander Wild Festival offers an unparalleled opportunity to reconnect with nature and indulge in unforgettable experiences. What better way to celebrate 10 years of the Wild Atlantic way than immersing yourself in wellness and new experiences in Killarney.
Thrill seekers will have the chance to conquer Carrauntoohil, Ireland’s highest mountain, observe constellations, planets and shooting stars from one of the world’s best stargazing spots and learn all things astronomy on a Dark Sky Hike on the Old Kenmare Road, or join an outdoor classroom and master the art of navigating steep terrains in a Steep Ground Masterclass.
Wander Wild Festival has something for all ages and abilities. Whether you want to scale a mountain or refocus with a wellness event – there is an activity for you. Explore the rich history of Inisfallen Island, dating back to 640 AD, with a captivating Kayak Tour. Watch the sunrise while taking a refreshing dip at Dundag, immerse yourself in a mystical forest bath, uncover the power of breath with a Wim Hof Method Workshop, or indulge in a soothing sauna experience on the banks of Muckross Lake.
This year’s festival introduces a range of new additions, including paddleboarding, workshops, live music, stalls, and entertainment at Basecamp in the town centre, healing sound baths, and yoga nidra gaeilge.
Get the inside track from local experts with guided hikes, night walks, pony treks, urban orienteering, captivating photo exhibitions, and self-guided loop walks and a children’s activity programme for families. The extended wellness programme includes family yoga, a herbal medicine workshop, mindset workshops and quantum touch, as well as the return of popular activities such as Yoga & Light Therapy, Reiki, and Sunrise Vinyasa.
Whether you’ve had a challenging day on the mountains or lakes, or a relaxing experience in the 26,000 acre Killarney National Park (designated UNESCO Biosphere Reserve), all paths will lead to basecamp in the town centre. With talks, stalls, and entertainment it’ll be the hub of the buzzing town over the weekend. Fresh from your activity of choice you can enjoy live music and entertainment in local bars throughout the weekend.
With nature playing such a big part of the festival and the essence of what Killarney is all about, the organisers are committed to making the festival as sustainable as possible. Some initiatives include encouraging people to leave the car at home as shuttle buses will bring people from the town centre to all activities outside of town. They are also working with the Killarney Hotels Sustainability Group and sustainable budget providers such as glamping and hostels to ensure that people’s stay has as low a carbon neutral impact as possible.
Most events are ticketed, with some free activities also available. Many events sold out last year so book early to avoid disappointment! Tickets are now live on wanderwildfestival.com.
Pat Chawke, Chairperson of Wander Wild Festival, said “We are thrilled to bring back the Wander Wild Festival to Killarney for another incredible year. With a wide range of outdoor activities and wellness experiences, this festival truly has something for everyone. We invite adventurers from near and far to join us and explore the beauty of Killarney’s great outdoors. Spring is a great time to explore and enjoy everything that Killarney town and the National Park have to offer.”
Wander Wild Festival is sponsored by Nature Valley and supported by Fáilte Ireland, Kerry County Council and Killarney Chamber of Commerce and Tourism.