Tinahely Show aims to be best one so far

The show takes place on Sunday, 3 August
Tinahely Show aims to be best one so far

At the launch of the Tinahely Show were Paddy Healy (committee), George Stacey (regional chairman, Irish Shows Association), Joyce Kearney (PRO, Tinahely Show), David McGrail (FBD Insurance) and Margaret Healy (chairperson, Tinahely Show)

ONE of Ireland’s largest agricultural shows will open its gates once again on Monday 3 August as Tinahely agricultural show returns to Fairwood Park for what the organisers are calling its biggest year yet.

Now in its ninth decade, the show draws an estimated 15,000 visitors annually and will host more than 400 exhibitors and trade stands this year.

This year’s theme, Rooted in tradition, growing for the future, aims to honour the region’s farming heritage while showcasing new developments in sustainability and rural enterprise.

Liam Phelan (AIB), show chairperson Margaret Healy, Fionntán Ó Súilleabháin TD, Peter Behan (Tinahely Show) and Yulia Khommeko with her son Tymur
Liam Phelan (AIB), show chairperson Margaret Healy, Fionntán Ó Súilleabháin TD, Peter Behan (Tinahely Show) and Yulia Khommeko with her son Tymur

Miriam Osborne, Nuala O'Dowd, Anne Mulhall and Mary Walsh
Miriam Osborne, Nuala O'Dowd, Anne Mulhall and Mary Walsh

Maisie Butterworth has her face painted by Noelle Lancaster
Maisie Butterworth has her face painted by Noelle Lancaster

Despite the wide range of food and trade stalls on offer, livestock judging remains the cornerstone of the show, with a full programme of competitions across cattle, sheep, horses and ponies.

This year’s headline events include the Connolly’s Red Mills Two-Year-Old Gelding All-Ireland final and the Tirlán Best of Dairy competition.

The Best of Wicklow exhibition, supported by Wicklow Co Council, returns for a fourth consecutive year to showcase the county’s food producers. The exhibition will also host the finals of the Wicklow Young Sustainable Chef Challenge.

Beyond the show rings, the day’s entertainment line-up is headlined by country music star Derek Ryan, with support from Stuart Moyles and Theresa and The Stars. The giant dance floor returns for another year, alongside the Tinahely Show jiving competition, which carries a €2,000 prize fund.

Other attractions include tractor pulling, pony games, carriage driving, vintage machinery display, a dog show and a full carnival and family entertainment programme, to name a few.

Chairperson of the show Margaret Healy said the event continues to evolve while staying true to its founding values.

Dariia and Artem Stszsyiuk pictured at the launch of the Tinahely Show in Tinahely Photos: Michael O'Rourke Photography
Dariia and Artem Stszsyiuk pictured at the launch of the Tinahely Show in Tinahely Photos: Michael O'Rourke Photography

“The Tinahely Show continues to evolve while remaining true to the values that have made it one of Ireland’s leading agricultural shows,” said Ms Healy.

“We’re incredibly proud of what our volunteers, sponsors, exhibitors and local community achieve every year. Whether you’re passionate about farming, interested in local food and crafts or simply looking for a fantastic family day out, there’s something here for everyone,” Ms Healy added.

Entries for all competitions are open. For more information, visit www.tinahelyshow.ie.

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