Body & Mind | Philosophy Festival 2026

Body and Mind Philosophy Festival Returns to Knocknagoshel for Second Year

Knocknagoshel will once again become a hub of reflection, conversation and community as the Body and Mind Philosophy Festival returns for its second year on Saturday 24th and Sunday 25th January 2026.

Organised by the Knocknagoshel Tidy Towns Committee, with support from Kerry County Council, the two-day festival brings together philosophy, mental wellbeing, movement and music, exploring how philosophical thinking can inform everyday life in Ireland today.

The festival will take place at the Knocknagoshel Community Centre and is open to the public, with free entry to all festival sessions. Tea, coffee and food will be available for purchase throughout the weekend.

The festival begins on Saturday at 11.00am, opening with “Philosophy and Ireland Today,” a headline conversation featuring Professor Daniel Vazquez (Mary Immaculate College). This opening session will set the tone for the weekend, inviting audiences to reflect on the role of philosophy in contemporary Irish life. Saturday’s programme also includes sessions on Irish storytelling, farming, environmental action, and embodied practices such as body movement and laughter yoga with Renata Day. The day will conclude in a local pub, with music by local musicians and continued informal discussion.

On Sunday, beginning at 10.00am, the festival will focus on the life and work of John Moriarty, the renowned philosopher and writer from North Kerry. A special tribute will explore Moriarty’s legacy, his ideas on personal growth, youth and education, and the continuing relevance of his thought today through reflection, music and discussion. This is expected to be one of the largest gatherings dedicated to John Moriarty in 2026 and is not to be missed.

Info: Professor Daniel Vazquez reflects on the role philosophy plays in shaping contemporary Irish thought, culture, and public life.

Info: Facilitated by philosophy teacher Kevin J. Power, folklorist Billy Mag Fhloinn, and storyteller Jonathan O'Leary, this session will explore the unique aspects of Irish mythology and what it tells us about ourselves as a people.

Info: Environmental leaders and activists discuss how care for land, place, and ecology can restore communities and deepen our sense of belonging.

Info: Farmers, students, and thinkers reflect on land stewardship, tradition, and the ethical future of Irish farming.

Info: An uplifting, participatory session using movement and laughter to reconnect body, mind, and community facilitated by Renata Day.

Info: Relax, eat, and continue the conversations across Knocknagoshel’s welcoming local pubs.

Info: Ease into the day with coffee and informal conversation.

Info: A reflective and creative tribute exploring John Moriarty’s life, ideas, and enduring relevance — featuring storytelling, live fiddle music, youth perspectives, and reflections on personal growth.

Know what’s Happening Next — before everyone else does.

Get App

Host or Publisher Knocknagoshel Tidy Towns