Irish Citizenship Ceremony – The INEC Killarney, 19 minutes from Kenmare

On Tuesday 14th and Wednesday 15th April 2026, the town of Killarney will host the Irish Citizenship Ceremonies at the Gleneagle Arena — a truly special national event welcoming thousands of new Irish citizens.

With over 12,000 attendees expected, Killarney will be exceptionally busy, with significant traffic congestion and limited accommodation availability.

Why Stay in Kenmare?

Located just 30 minutes from Killarney and only 19 minutes from the INEC, Kenmare offers a far more relaxed and enjoyable experience during these busy dates.

Instead of navigating heavy traffic and crowded streets, you can:

Stay in a charming heritage town with boutique accommodation

Enjoy award-winning dining, cafés and traditional pubs

Avoid the stress of parking and congestion in Killarney

Experience the best of Kerry and West Cork from one central base

Kenmare is widely known as the gateway to the Ring of Kerry, the Ring of Beara and West Cork, making it the perfect place to turn your trip into something more memorable.

Getting to the Ceremony

The ceremonies at the Gleneagle Arena will take place at:

11:00 | 13:00 | 15:00 daily

Each lasting approximately 30 minutes

Important travel tips:

Expect heavy traffic between 09:30 and 16:30

Parking at the venue will be extremely limited

Free shuttle buses operate from Killarney town (train station and Scotts Street)

Guests are strongly advised to avoid driving directly to the venue

From Kenmare, you can plan your journey in advance, arrive early, and avoid the stress of staying in the centre of the congestion.

Make a Trip of It

Why travel for just a ceremony when you can turn it into a short escape? Stay in Kenmare and experience of your citizenshop.

Day 1

Arrive in Kenmare, settle in, and enjoy a relaxed evening with great food and local hospitality.  With a population of 2000 people, this heritage town packs a punch with 55 bars, restaurants and eateries!

Day 2

Attend your ceremony in Killarney, then return to Kenmare for a celebratory dinner and drinks.

Day 3

Explore the region:

• Drive the Ring of Beara

• Visit Killarney National Park

• Discover the coastal beauty of West Cork

• Or enjoy a guided experience such as a local food tour or heritage walk

• Stay at The Lansdowne Kenmare

At The Lansdowne Kenmare, a proud member of Ireland’s Blue Book and Small Luxury Hotels of the World, you are perfectly positioned to enjoy both the ceremony and everything this region has to offer.

Located in the heart of Kenmare town centre

Just 19 minutes from the INEC / Gleneagle Arena

Elegant rooms, warm Irish hospitality and exceptional food

Ideal for a one-night stay or a longer escape

Plan Ahead

Accommodation in Killarney will be extremely limited across these dates.

Secure your stay now and experience the ceremony without the stress. Email stay@lansdownekenmare.com and we very much look forward to welcoming you to The Lansdowne Kenmare.