80th Tullow Show is launched by Instagram star Katie Larkin
Committee members and sponsors at the launch of the Tullow Show 2026, which takes place on 16 August Photo: Jane Potter
ABBEYCow Girl, the Instagram handle of beef farmer and content creator Katie Larkin, was the guest of honour at the launch of the 2026 Tullow agricultural show on Wednesday 15 July.
A crowd gathered in the Tara Arms, Tullow, to listen as she spoke about the importance of agricultural shows in strengthening rural communities and highlighted the increasing role of women in agriculture.
The Tullow Agricultural Show Society held its first show in 1946, meaning the show taking place on 16 August will be the 80th.
The generations of volunteers whose dedication has helped the show flourish over the decades were praised by president of the show, Robert Keogh. Chairperson Shane Maher similarly thanked the sponsors, guests and committee members for attending.
There was also an address by national president of the Irish Shows Association Freda Kinnarney, who described Tullow show as “one of the country’s outstanding agricultural shows.” In honour of Ena Atkinson, who has been instrumental in the revival and resurgence of Borris Lace since the 1990s, the Ena Atkinson perpetual cup will be awarded for the first time this year for the best piece made in Borris Lace. Ena’s work helped to make sure the unique Carlow designed lace-making tradition has been preserved for future generations.
An evening of live traditional Irish music and mingling followed the speeches, building up the atmosphere for what is sure to be a fantastic community event in August.
