The Office of Public Works (OPW) has announced the return of the 'Discover Derrynane' festival, which will take place from Friday 5 June to Sunday 7 June. Produced and curated by the OPW, the weekend features a full schedule of free events and activities designed to showcase the history, creative culture, and biodiversity of the Derrynane Parklands.

The three-day festival programme includes a wide range of public activities, such as guided tours, workshops, walks, talks, exhibitions, film screenings, storytelling, music, and outdoor wildlife experiences. The event is designed to encourage visitors and local residents to engage with the unique heritage and environment of Derrynane through learning and creative community experiences.

The festival will be officially launched by Kevin "Boxer" Moran, Minister of State with responsibility for the OPW. Opening-day activities on Friday include marine creature workshops, musical guided tours with Peter Mullarkey, photography workshops led by Patrick Kavanagh, and Bog Jazz featuring Cáit Ní Rian. Friday's schedule will conclude with 'Dusk', a themed storytelling and astronomy tour focused on stillness. The schedule for Saturday and Sunday includes wild plant medicine walks, further photography sessions with Vinny Hyghland and Patrick Kavanagh, seashore safaris, bee observation sessions, face painting, and beach yoga. Paddy Bushe will lead heritage walks to Abbey Island, and visitors can also attend guided tours of Derrynane House and various film screenings. Additionally, the weekend line-up incorporates music and storytelling performances themed around the life of Daniel O'Connell.

All events throughout the festival are free of charge, though the organisers have noted that certain sessions will require advance booking. The full programme and activity listings are available via the event publication.

Minister Kevin "Boxer" Moran TD said: "It is great to see the return of 'Discover Derrynane' family festival to Kerry this weekend. The full programme has something for everyone to enjoy, from workshops and outdoor activities to storytelling and music. There are ample opportunities to explore the marine life and immerse yourself in nature. The festival also provides a wonderful opportunity to explore the spectacular landscape and culture of Derrynane. Join us this weekend and explore Derynane and all that is on offer."