The Puck Fair Committee pictured at the launch of this years festival in 10 Bridge Street Killorglin on Saturday night.Back L-R: Lisa Corkery, Ben Henry, Christine Healy, Pat O’Shea, John McGrath, David Piggot. Second Row L-R: Geraldine O’Sullivan, Michael Moriarty, Sean Coffey, Kyrstal Cronin, Blathniad Wieland ,Pat Healy, Peadar Healy. Front L-R: John Spillane (Special Guest) Declan Mangan, Scarlett Moriarty (Queen of Puck Fair 2026) and Declan Falvey (Chairperson).KILLORGLIN celebrated the launch of Puck Fair 2026 at the weekend, starting the official countdown to Ireland’s oldest gathering festival.
The event brought together members of the local community to celebrate the festival’s rich traditions and look ahead to this year’s programme of events.
Puck Fair, held annually on 10, 11 and 12 August, traces its origins to the ancient pagan festival of Lughnasa, with records of the festival dating back to at least 1613.
Continued below…
Among the most well-known of the festival’s traditions is the annual crowning of a wild mountain goat as ‘King Puck’ and overseer of the town.
Speaking at the festival’s launch, Chairperson of the organising committee, Declan Falvey,highlighted the importance of the festival to the town: “We’re delighted to celebrate the launch of another Puck Fair!”
Queen of Puck Fair for 2026 Scarlett Moriarty at the launch which took place in 10 Bridge Street Killorglin on Saturday.“Puck Fair, Aonach an Phoic is a highlight of the Killorglin calendar each year, and we’re looking forward to another outstanding programme of music, entertainment and family-friendly events this August. As always, we can’t wait to welcome back members of our diaspora, returning visitors and first-time guests alike to experience the unique atmosphere, tradition and fun that make Puck Fair so special.”
The launch event also paid tribute to the late Seán Ó Sé, whose iconic rendition of Poc ar Buileduring the coronation of King Puck was a highlight of the festival for several decades.
.To honour his longstanding association with the festival, attendees at the launch were treated to a live performance of Poc ar Buile by special guest, John Spillane.
“Seán brought that song to life in a way that resonated with generations of festival-goers, and his connection to Puck Fair was truly special. We wanted to take the opportunity to acknowledge his enormous contribution to the festival, and what better way to do so than with a special tribute from the wonderful John Spillane”, Declan added.
The Queen of Puck Fair, Scarlett Moriarty, was also officially crowned at the launch event. Scarlett, a sixth-class pupil in Killorglin’s Scoil Mhuire, said that she is thrilled to be named queen, having attended the festival every year to enjoy its traditions, music, and fireworks displays:
“I’m so excited to be named Queen of Puck Fair 2026. Growing up in Killorglin, I have always loved the history and celebrations of Puck Fair – the town really comes to life with the music, entertainment and overall atmosphere. I’m really looking forward to welcoming everyone back to Killorglin this August, especially those returning home to reconnect with family and friends, and visitors experiencing Puck Fair for the very first time. I hope they enjoy everything that makes this festival so special!”
As always, this year’s festival includes a fantastic lineup of Irish talent, with musical acts and performances to appeal to all tastes and ages! Headline acts include the Ulster trad and folk band,Wolhound, singer Simon Casey, and Super Céilí, the duo renowned for their mixing of traditional Irish melodies with electronic beats and synths.
