Granard Show delivers a quality programme that has something for everyone

Over the last number of years the annual Granard Agricultural Show has attracted increasing numbers to a social event that has consistently delivered a weekend of entertainment.

The organisers of the 2024 Granard Agricultural Show are hoping to build on that success by delivering a programme that has something for everyone.

The show plays a huge part in the community life of Granard. Steered by a dedicated committee the people of Granard bond together over a show that's a part of the town's identity: “Everyone rallies around on the days leading up to and during the show,” Chairperson of the show committee Gerry Tully told the Leader.

“The countdown has started, it's great. There's great excitement to it. There is lots of chat around town about it and even at the Longford show, people are really looking forward to it,” Gerry said.

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The show chairman spoke of the anticipation for the show: “It's a two-day event, there is always a great build-up to it. There is great anticipation about the showjumping on Sunday.

The six-bar jumping competition is kind of unique to our show. It will draw a good crowd. It's great for spectators.”

The Higginstown location is a great asset for the organisers: “We're very lucky to have the Showgrounds. It's very unique. We have a wonderful 360-degree view.

“The Showgrounds get lots of use. We let the local soccer club, Spartak, use it. The local GAA uses it for training, and the archers use it as well. It's great to have it in our local town.”

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Gerry says the community spirit of Granard is very evident at the Show: “There's a lot of shows around, ours may be small, with a small committee, but we have a big heart.

“All the local clubs in the area rock in to help us on show day.”

The appeal of the show is the variety of the programme: “We have a large range of classes. We have crafts, we have animals, we have entertainment.

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“There's something there for everyone. That's what draws people to it.”

The show chairman says every effort will be made to have good weather on the day: “Everyone we know will have the Child of Prague out for Saturday.”

The main part of the Granard Show will be held on Saturday, July 20, with the showjumping on Sunday, July 21, 2024.

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