Packed schedule of events for 54th Roscommon Agricultural Show

After months of dedicated work the scene is set for the 54th Roscommon Agricultural Show which takes place tomorrow, Saturday, August 15th at Hannon’s grounds on the Athlone Road.

With a packed schedule of classes the show is an opportunity to showcase the rich agricultural heritage of the area and highlights the farming way of life at its best.

The show was officially launched in Hannon’s Hotel where chairperson Claudia Gormley thanked the large crowd for attending. She paid special tribute to the dedicated committee, saying that this show did not just happen overnight but took months of dedication from the members and volunteers.

She thanked all those who had given up their time to ensure another successful show day and those who would spend the coming days preparing the field ahead of Saturday’s showcase.

She thanked all the sponsors, saying that the committee would not be able to do its work without their support which they give year in and year out. Special thanks was given to Roscommon Volunteer Centre and all the additional volunteers who help out on the day.

The large audience in attendance also heard that more young people need to come on board to keep the show up and running and are important for its future.

This year sees a packed programme in place with a massive 222 classes (excluding the dog section) which covers an eclectic mix of heifers, sheep, lambs, ponies, jams, tarts and photos, to name just a few. The day also includes All-Ireland finals and qualifiers.

In a message to the committee Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht, Darragh Calleary TD stated: “As Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht, I am delighted to be in a position again this year to support the Roscommon Agricultural Show for 2026.

“Funding of over €1 million is being provided through the Irish Shows Association to support 126 shows across the country including the show here in Roscommon. Rural Ireland is rich in heritage and in culture, and agriculture has played a central role in that. Our agricultural shows are a celebration of rural life, rural tradition, innovation and rural excellence.

“They are an occasion in the rural calendar to showcase local produce and livestock, together with artisan foods and crafts. They are an all-round great day out and I would encourage everyone to get along to their local shows this year. This year we see an increase in the number of shows taking place across the country, again demonstrating the value communities place in these events.

“The meitheal and resilience evident in these shows is so encouraging as towns and villages right across the country host their local shows and the associated competitions across many different categories. The sheer effort and determination of committees, volunteers and stewards must be acknowledged.

“The way in which these shows deliver great occasions for trade exhibitors, competitors and visitors is a fantastic achievement and, I as Minister for Rural and Community Development and Gaeltacht, am proud to support them. I want to wish the Roscommon Show every success for the 2026 season. No doubt it will be a huge success with a host of exhibits and competitive opportunities for local livestock and produce to be viewed and recognised for its excellence. I wish all those who compete and visit the show a very enjoyable day and continued success to those taking part in the competitions. Keep up the good work.” 

Local public representatives along with representatives from various farming bodies praised the work of the committee and acknowledged their huge dedication with the launch hearing that the day highlights everything that is good and positive in the community.

A minute’s silence was also held in memory of the late Paddy Hannon who sadly passed away last March and was remembered as “a great friend of the committee who always helped out and will be sadly missed.” For entries and further information see roscommonagriculturalshow.ie