An exciting programme of events awaits visitors to the 14th annual Athlone Agri Show & Food Festival, which takes place this Sunday, June 26 at Gaffey's Farm, Moydrum, Athlone.
Speaking at the recent launch in the Radisson Blu Hotel, chairman Michael Flanagan thanked all who had made the show possible, including the Gaffey family for the use of the showgrounds and the show's sponsors including main sponsor Athlone Municipal District.
The 'Made in the Midlands' Food Village and Craft Fair returns this year under the supervision of co-ordinator Martin Monaghan, with a classic exhibition of the best of Irish produce produced here in the Midlands, as well as tastings and cookery demonstrations. Visitors will also be able to witness crafts being made in the traditional way by excellent crafts people.
A number of categories will be up for judging on the day, including the bovine section with 85 different classes, equine section with 96 classes up for adjudication, and ovine section which is expected to be the biggest exhibition of sheep ever in the Midlands.
The poultry and pets section features 30 classes for all kinds of birds as well as five classes for eggs, and there will also be a cookery competition which is expected to be very popular.
There will also be a 'Super Dog Show', with separate rings for small and large breeds. Entries will be taken on the day and judging starts at 2pm.
In addition to the competitive aspects, the Agri Show features a variety of stands and amusements for all ages. Trade stands will include everything from farm machinery, motor cars, garden equipment, and fencing products, to home insulation systems and all kinds of new inventions.
For younger visitors there will be a variety of fun and games including a mini digger and duck pond, Score the European Cup Goal, Formula Fun Cars, Jump for Joy with bouncy castles, quad bikes, slides, gladiator arena, face painting, novelty balloons, colouring competitions, and much more.
The tractor and model farm is a must-see, with a display of actual miniature farm machinery in motion doing everyday farm tasks.
There will be open-air dancing all day long in the beer garden, with big screens for all the sports. Rumbles Catering will provide hot lunches all day, with their catering units offering an award-winning range of fast food products.
Admission is €10 for adults, with children going free. Parking for the event is free. The showground will be open at 7am for exhibitors and 10am for the general public.
