Granard Show celebrates the people who ‘nurture our countryside and build sustainable futures’
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Tom McNally Motors Longford is the main sponsor of the 76th Granard Agricultural Show
Marking its 76th anniversary, Granard Show continues to grow and this weekend will see visitors converge on the North Longford town from far and wide for the two day gathering.
Show Secretary Hazel McVeigh, addressing guests at the recent show launch in The Bay Horse Pub, highlighted the vital role of agriculture in our lives.
“Granard Show has long stood as a proud tradition – a gathering of farmers, producers, craftspeople, families and friends – all united by a shared appreciation for the land and the vital role agriculture plays in our lives.
“Today, more than ever, we must celebrate and support the people who feed us, nurture our countryside, and build sustainable futures.”
Hazel thanked all sponsors, both new and old, for investing in Granard Show and ensuring its survival.
“An agricultural show like this would not be possible without the continued support from our generous sponsors. Our show has continued to expand the last few years and it is humbling to see the support we receive from our generous sponsors and our exhibitors travelling from all over the country. Tom McNally Motors Longford is our main sponsor this year and together with all the various sponsors ensure the survival and continuation of our Show.”
She paid tribute to the hard working Show committee.
“Behind the scenes, a huge amount of work has gone into the making of this event. I extend my heartfelt thanks to the dedicated Show Committee, our volunteers, sponsors, exhibitors and supporters. Their commitment and enthusiasm keeps this event thriving year after year.”
Outlining some of the events on the programme, Hazel had a special word for young people and she pointed out, “The Youth of today play a vital role in all Shows and so we have Young Handlers in all sections from ponies to sheep to cattle.
READ ALSO: Speedshear event in aid of Granard Agricultural Show promises to be a great family day out
“Our Dog Show takes place at 2.30pm with entries taken on the day at 1.30.
“Indoors we have our crafts, veg, fruit, preserves, baking and photography/art on display together with our Schools Competition co-ordinated each year by local librarian Rosemary Gaynor and Mrs Grier. It is a fantastic way to introduce the youngsters into participating at the agri show and hopefully one day some of those young people will join the show and keep the many traditions alive.”
Hazel this year’s Granard Show programme is filled with something for everyone – from livestock competitions to local food, crafts, schools competition and kids entertainment provided by Glen Cullen Kids Entertainment and free Face Painting on the day with a kids play area on site and a Quiet Zone if the hustle and bustle of Show day gets too much.
She added, “It is our hope that those attending will find inspiration, enjoyment, and a deeper connection to the land and those who care for it. Our official opening takes place at 12 noon. Fr Simon Cadam will bless the grounds and all those present and we are honoured this year to have the Irish Shows Association President Freda Kinnarney officially open our Show and then the winner of our Monster Fundraising Draw for a brand new Toyota Landcruiser will be pulled from the drum by Freda. I wish to thank everyone who purchased tickets for our Monster Fundraiser. The support received was unbelievable.”
Hazel spoke of the ‘need to acknowledge the challenges our agricultural communities continue to face – from changing weather patterns and economic pressures to the evolving demands of sustainability and technology’. She continued, “It is through events like our Show here in Granard that we not only showcase excellence, but also foster resilience, innovation and collaboration.”
Hazel also gave special mention to the Speedshear competition. “When Show Day draws to a close you can continue to enjoy your evening at the Bay Horse Public House Main Street Granard at the Speedshear competition. This event has been organised by Mickey and Louise Kelly and all proceeds raised on the day are being donated to Granard Agri Show to assist with the purchase of our beautiful and cherished showgrounds at the Higginstown Complex. We are most grateful to the Kelly Family for their support.”
The Show secretary concluded, “I wish all our exhibitors the very best of luck and hope everyone enjoys a safe, successful and memorable Granard Show Day 2026.”