Tullow Agricultural Show takes place today at Coppenagh House Farm, just outside Tullow town. Known also as the County Carlow Show, this one-day festival, held annually on the third Sunday of August, celebrates the region’s agricultural heritage and community spirit. Set against the scenic backdrop of the River Slaney, the show attracts around 15,000 visitors each year, offering a diverse programme of competitive and cultural activities that reflect the area’s rural traditions.
The 2025 programme features a broad range of events, including livestock competitions, equestrian events, dog shows, and domestic arts, with several All-Ireland Championship Finals and Qualifiers. Visitors can expect displays of cattle, sheep, and horses, alongside showjumping and pony classes that highlight local equestrian talent.
The festival also includes over 50 trade stands showcasing local businesses, hosted in collaboration with the County Carlow Chamber. Culinary offerings are a highlight, with cookery demonstrations by chefs such as Maggie Roche and Charlo the Chef, alongside The Cool Food School’s educational sessions. Entertainment includes live music on the main stage, featuring performers like David James and Stacey Breen, and a jiving competition with cash prizes, following its successful debut in 2024.
For younger visitors, a dedicated children’s stage offers traditional Irish music, performances by Joe the Magician, and the Little Mr and Mrs Tullow contest from 12pm. Additional attractions include vintage and farm machinery displays, food stalls, and craft exhibits. Tickets are priced at €15 for adults and €10 for students and pensioners, with updates available at www.tullowagriculturalshow.com.
Visitors can anticipate a welcoming atmosphere at the Coppenagh showgrounds, a working beef farm with ample parking and a coffee barn serving drinks and treats. The event is family-friendly, with free activities for children, though attendees should check weather updates due to the outdoor setting. Tullow’s proximity to attractions like Altamont Gardens and the Tullow Museum, which houses artefacts from the 1798 Rebellion, offers opportunities to explore the area’s history.
The showgrounds’ rural setting, 4km from Tullow, provides a peaceful backdrop, and public transport options, including bus services to Carlow and Dublin, ensure accessibility. Visitors are advised to arrive early for popular events like the jiving competition and to bring cash for some stalls.
The Tullow Agricultural Show was founded in 1946 by local farmers and community members, including James Kelly, to promote Carlow’s agricultural heritage and foster community engagement. Initially a modest gathering, it has grown into one of Ireland’s most established one-day agricultural shows, reflecting the region’s farming legacy.
The festival’s early development was supported by the Tullowphelim Historical Society and local agricultural organisations, with Coppenagh House Farm becoming its permanent home. event is managed by a dedicated volunteer committee chaired by Robert Keogh and supported by Carlow County Council and local sponsors. This collaborative effort ensures the show remains a vital platform for showcasing livestock, equestrian skills, and local produce.
The show’s history is deeply tied to Tullow’s identity as a market town, with roots dating back to the Anglo-Norman period and a castle built by Hugh de Lacy around 1181. The event has evolved to include modern elements like live music and children’s entertainment while preserving traditional competitions that highlight Carlow’s agricultural prowess. Its enduring appeal lies in its ability to balance heritage with contemporary attractions, drawing visitors from across Ireland. The 2025 edition will continue this tradition, offering a day of community-focused activities that celebrate the region’s rural culture and economic contributions.
