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sport · Sunday 4 October 2026 · Various 
Killarney Racecourse October Festival
At Killarney Racecourse · Ross Road, Killarney, Co. Kerry
At Killarney Racecourse · Ross Road, Killarney, Co. Kerry
Killarney Racecourse closes out its 2026 season with the October Festival, two days of racing on Sunday 4 and Monday 5 October, the last fixture on the track’s calendar after meetings in May, July and August. It is a quieter, more local affair than the summer festivals, run as the tourist season eases off and Killarney settles back into its autumn rhythm, but it still draws a loyal crowd of regulars and anyone looking for a day at the races before winter.
Two days of racing round off the year at one of Ireland’s most scenically set tracks, with National Hunt racing typically featuring in the autumn card alongside flat fixtures. Expect a smaller, more locally-flavoured crowd than the August Festival, with regulars, local trainers and owners well represented alongside racegoers making a day of it. On-course bookmakers and a tote operate as usual, with food and drink available through both days. As the final meeting of the year at the course, it has the feel of a season send-off rather than a big festival date, which suits racegoers who prefer their day at the track without the bigger summer crowds.
Killarney Racecourse is on Ross Road, a short drive from Killarney town centre and easy to reach from the N22. On-site parking is available on race days, and taxis are readily available from the town for anyone not driving.
Early October is a quieter time in Killarney than high summer, making it a good time to combine a race day with the town’s restaurants and the National Park without the peak-season crowds. There is more to see in Killarney and across Co. Kerry.
Heading to Killarney Racecourse in Killarney? Kerry has plenty more to see. Read the Killarney area guide, find what else is on, and explore the towns and villages nearby.
In town for Killarney Racecourse? These Kerry tours book out in summer.