Elphin Agricultural Show keeping a great tradition alive

Since its inception back in the 1940s Elphin Agricultural Show has grown to be one of the most anticipated events on the show calendar around the country.

It was first held in the Orchard Park in the 1940s with the last show of this type being held in 1949. In 1975 a community council was set up and one of its projects was the revival of Elphin Show.

The revived show was held on the Elphin Co-op Livestock Mart grounds in 1976 and has become an annual event with few exceptions, one being in 2001when there was an outbreak of Foot and Mouth disease in the country and during Covid.

The much loved show takes place today, Saturday, August, 28th, and will cement that strong history that it prides itself on.

At the recent official launch of the 47th annual event chairman John McDermott acknowledged the hard work of everyone involved along with the many sponsors saying that their “dedication is what keeps this great tradition alive.” “I would like to take this opportunity to sincerely thank Elphin Mart for its continued support and generosity in making its outstanding premises available to us for 2026. The ongoing partnership plays a vital role in the continued success of the show,” he said.

“A show like ours doesn't just happen. It takes weeks of planning, hard work, and commitment from a fantastic group of people. I want to sincerely thank our committee, our volunteers, stewards, judges, exhibitors, sponsors, and everyone who gives their time throughout the year. Your dedication is what keeps this great tradition alive, and we are incredibly grateful for everything you do,” added the chairman.

“I'd also like to thank all of our sponsors for their continued support. Their generosity helps us grow the show each year and ensures that we can continue to provide a great day out for families, competitors, exhibitors, and visitors alike,” he said.

“I would also like to pay special tribute to our main sponsors, whose continued support is absolutely vital to the success of the Elphin Agricultural Show. A very sincere thank you to Tony and Blathin Stevenson, the Callery family, and the Department of Rural &Community Development for coming on board again this year as our main sponsors.

“Your support goes far beyond financial assistance. It is an investment in our local community, in Irish agriculture, and into an event that has been part of our community here in Elphin for 47 years,” said Mr McDermott.

He also thanked all of the class sponsors, advertisers, and everyone who had contributed in any way. “Every sponsorship, whether large or small, helps ensure that the show continues to grow and thrive. We are truly grateful for your continued generosity. The prize fund for the day is a massive €40,000.” He went on to outline the vast number of sections and classes, which will take place on the day with a myriad of categories from cattle to sheep, home produce, dogs, photography and much more. Weather worries were also allayed as the majority of classes are under cover.

He added, “The show offers free family entertainment on the day, with activities and attractions worth more than €5,000. We've made a significant investment to ensure families can enjoy a fantastic day out at no additional cost.” There will be live music by Steward Moyles from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. with a large dance floor available for jiving.

After the show there will be music in An Bothar Rua with a draw held on the night. First prize is a weanling heifer.

The committee is also looking for volunteers to help out on the day and be part, not just of the show, but a great community.

This year the committee has truly surpassed itself ensuring that Elphin Agricultural Show is not just a day to showcase farming life but one to be enjoyed by all ages and all members of the community.

For further information contact show secretary Clare Connellan on 087 9471081; log onto www.elphinshow.com or email elphinagriculturalshow@gmail.com