The Puck Fair is one of Ireland’s oldest and most cherished festivals, taking place annually in the town of Killorglin, County Kerry. The legend that surrounds its origin is as fascinating as the event itself. The fair is believed to have its roots in pre-Christian times, relating to a heathen harvest festival dedicated to the god of fertility, Lugh. The wild mountain goat, which has become an emblem of the fair, is linked to this pagan legacy. However, the most popular story explaining the fair’s origin is associated with Oliver Cromwell’s invasion of Ireland in the 1600s. According to the tale, as Cromwell’s forces approached Killorglin, they intended to seize all livestock. A wild goat broke away from its herd on the nearby mountains, hastily descending into the town. Its rare arrival caused such commotion that the townsfolk were alerted to the oncoming danger, and managed to save their livestock and indeed themselves from Cromwell’s men. Every year since, the townsfolk have been honoring the goat, symbolically crowning it ‘King Puck’ for the duration of the fair as a mark of their gratitude. The fair includes many traditional Irish activities like music, dance, horse trading, and a parade, attract visitors from all over the world. The Puck Fair is a testimony to the undying spirit of the Irish dedication to their traditions and folklore.