Puck Fair: Kerry festival still draws crowds despite animal and drinking controversies

Despite controversies about animal welfare and late-night drinking, Killoglin's centuries-old goat-centered hooley attracted hordes of revellers yet again this year

Robyn O'Shea, the Queen of Puck Fair, overseas proceedings as King Puck is dethroned and returned to the mountains during 'The Scattering', on the the last day of the three-day festival in Killorglin Co Kerry. Picture: David Ryan

With issues around animal welfare arising almost every year, it is surprising there is still even a Puck Fair with a live puck.

However, with most welfare concerns addressed in one way or another, this year saw — yet again — a male goat being “crowned” then “dethroned” in this year’s annual festival in Kerry.