Fourth of July celebration in Kerry cancelled due to Gaza conflict

The yearly Fourth of July festival that takes place in Killarney has been cancelled due to issues raised by the Killarney for Palestine group concerning the ongoing conflict in Gaza.

The group took to social media, stating that holding a July 4 festival would be 'tone deaf', given US support for Israel.

Killarney Chamber of Commerce and Tourism announced that the festival would be rebranded. In a statement, they said that they acknowledge the concerns raised by the Killarney for Palestine group and said that members of the Chamber have, too, been disturbed by the situation in Gaza.

The Chamber met with members of the group twice to discuss their concerns and reach a solution regarding the festival modifications.

"Given the circumstances, a decision has been taken to completely rebrand this year's midsummer celebration to 'A Celebration of Irish and American Friendship' and, following the representations made to Chamber, many of the events organised and enjoyed in previous years will not take place this year."

This year's festival will no longer include the traditional raising of the American flag during the outdoor ceremony at the town hall. Additionally, festival souvenirs will not be displayed in the streets of Killarney.

This came after the Killarney for Palestine group requested that the festival not have any US theme, given the war in Gaza.

The Chamber further announced that other events, such as the free open-air movie experience, concert and fireworks display, will also be cancelled; however, the Killarney for Palestine group has stated on social media that they have no issue with these events taking place.

The Chamber stresses that these decisions are not political and that their organisation has never been affiliated with politics. They state that their only role is to support the town through community-based events and develop businesses and tourism.

"The Chamber's only aim is to continuously build Killarney's reputation and identity as an admired, world-class, sustainable tourism destination, celebrated for its year-round appeal and its quality as a place in which to live, conduct business and visit."

The Chamber further wishes to stress that in this year's celebrations there will be a special emphasis on the American people who have been great and loyal friends to Killarney for many years.