Fantastic County Longford show attracts record numbers during successful 75th milestone

The Granard Show’s 75th event saw crowds continue to rise - with yet another record attendance.

With the help of fantastic weather, the show was a highlight of the weekend, as it had plenty of attractions for attendees to enjoy, but also had the unexpected appearance of Tánaiste Simon Harris.

This event, like others throughout the county, establishes why County Longford has many must-see spectacles for everyone to enjoy.

READ NEXT: 'Wonderful project': Longford inclusive playground and sports courts are open

Unlike other shows over summer that happen over a single day, the Granard Show carried over to two.

The first day was much like what is expected for a big agricultural show, while the second day had a horse show.

Both of these days were a tremendous success for the committee, who spent a great deal of time planning in advance.

“We had good entries and lots of late entries on the day. It was a big day overall,” said show secretary, Hazel McVeigh.

READ NEXT: Massive capital investment plan for Longford, says Deputy Carrigy

“One of the highlights was the attendance of Simon Harris; very unexpected. It was fantastic to have him there.”

She then named some specific highlights from the overall weekend which stood out to her.

“The highlight was the Best Commercial Heifer sponsored by the main sponsor of the show.

There were fantastic cattle presented in general.

The calibre of the cattle of the show in Granard was great. There were the cattle, sheep, horses and pony handlers.

There was great interest in getting young people involved in the Young Handlers.

Not forgetting all the indoor exhibits–great entries across the board. Crafts, veg, fruit and flowers.

All in all, it definitely was the biggest show yet and, thankfully, our 75th show.”

The Granard Show was an event that provided interest for everybody, which was clear when Hazel highlighted a list of what made the show work so well.

Although Hazel was not in attendance for the Sunday's horse show, she said that all the team were there.

The 6 Bar competition had three riders compete for the coveted prize of €1,000. Again, Sunday proved to be a great success among the community.

There were plenty of individuals who Hazel said were massive contributors to the success of the Granard Show.

“We just like to thank each and everybody who came through the gates.

"From all the stewards, helpers, people who did the gate–we cannot thank everybody enough.

"The support was brilliant. We thank our new and old sponsors.

"It was unbelievable the interest that the Granard Show had.

"It makes all the long hours worthwhile. The people were invested in the show. The judges, spectators and all those involved in the 75th show. It was brilliant.”

Next year, tickets for a 2026 edition Land Cruiser will begin to be sold for €100 each, but there will only be 1,000 tickets available for this raffle.

"The winner will be announced on show day 2026. McNally Motors launched the big win, so keep an eye out in January for further updates. It is currently described as the Big Monster Raffle.

Unlike previous years that rain affected the attendance, the 75th year was lucky to have plenty of clear skies. Hazel added that it would be great to add more attractions in the future, such as country music, to build on what they already have.

The committee will be planning what to include in the next show in the coming weeks, as most committees do work a long time in advance.

Hazel's comments emphasised the great interest that everybody, from attendees to sponsors, had in the Granard Show's continuing success.