Little wanderers are invited to the Wander Wild Festival in Killarney (22nd-24th March) for some exciting adventures. The unique adventure and wellness festival set in the lakes and mountains of Killarney National Park has lots of fun activities for children to revel in and explore nature. From Gruffalo hunts anddigital treasure hunts to musical master classes and a forest school, young and young at heart are guaranteed a weekend of adventure, nature, music, creativity and most importantly, fun!
There are a host of activities for every age. Little yogis aged 4-10 years can dive into a Children’s Yoga Class where movement, music, and mindfulness will help to cultivate feelings of self-love, positivity, and calmness for everyone. A family yoga session for kids aged 3-7 accompanied by a parent, will include lots of partner poses, making animal noises and having heaps of fun!! Or why not embark on an enchanting journey solving clues, playing games and trying to find the mythical creature who lives in the Deep Dark Woods of Killarney House in The Magical Gruffalo Experience.
Enjoy a family day out at the Forest School for Families where little ones (5-10) and not so little ones can gather together under the trees, play nature games and create nature crafts together. Families will also love the ‘Ciar’s Quest’ digital treasure hunt around Ross Island where they can virtually meet and interact with some of Kerry’s iconic wildlife. Download the digital treasure map to locate the hidden wildlife along the 3km trail. Or get the competitive spirit going in the family with some Urban Orienteering. Navigate a course around the paths, tracks and lanes of Killarney Town in the quickest time possible!
6-14 year old’s can unleash their creativity at The Art House Nature Experience. It’s a chance for them to explore a world of imagination through hands-on nature themed art activities and interactive exhibits. Learn new techniques, and express themselves through various art forms, from painting to sculpture and beyond!
Budding actors and singers can create a unique musical and drama performance with a Trolls or Barbie Workshop, run by The MACademy Performing Arts School.
Kids can also enjoy activities just for them at the Festival Base Camp in the town centre. There’ll be Magic Street Shows, Facepainting and a Drum Circle to enjoy.
Prices for activities range from free to €15.
Wander Wild is a family friendly festival with a range of activities that the whole family can take part in. From guided walks and cycles through the National Park, to guided hikes up some of Kerry’s beautiful mountains, park runs, boat trips through the lakes, and pony treks, little feet, and big feet can seek out adventures side by side!
For the adults that want their own adventure, check out the full festival schedule on wanderwildfestival.com – there are over 100 activities from scaling Carraountohil, to sunrise dips, saunas and stand up paddle boarding, a range of wellness classes, guided hikes, kayaking tours, a gourmet food trail, a photo exhibition,and lots more.
There’s a plentiful and diverse range of accommodation options in Killarney with something for every budget, from hostels and self-catering to four- and five-star hotels.
Wander Wild Festival is sponsored by Nature Valley and supported by 53 Degrees North, Fáilte Ireland, Kerry County Council, Killarney Chamber of Tourism & Commerce and the National Park and Wildlife Service.
