All roads will be leading to Bonniconlon this August Bank Holiday Monday (August 3 ) when the small village is transformed into one of the biggest showgrounds in the country for the annual show and gymkhana.
Running since 1949, the show organisers are well prepared for the massive estimated influx of 30,000 people who will descend for a celebration of rural life and agriculture like no other, which has become one of the biggest shows of its kind in Ireland.
There are some 600 showing classes in everything from horses, ponies, cattle, and sheep to goats, poultry, dogs, and pets.
There are also classes to cater for anyone with an interest in the domestic arts section.
There are classes for special needs, and a junior section, and Bonniconlon hosts no fewer than eight All Ireland finals, in horses, ponies, cattle, sheep, poultry, and domestic arts, as well as a Connacht Dog Championship.
There will be in excess of 250 trade stands there on the day. Some of the attractions include an exhibition of a robotic milking machine by Lely Ireland, machinery of all kinds, blacksmiths, vintage and heritage displays, tractor rebuilding in nine minutes by Heathers Angels, and even a stunt bike show.
There are 10 events in the gymkhana for horses and ponies, with loose jumping, with more than €5,000 up for grabs in prize money.
Competitors from all over Ireland will compete in the sheaf tossing events for young and old.
For the younger show attendees, there is a bonny baby show and a children's party and disco with some special guests.
There are lots of side attractions, with live music by The Outlaws from 1pm to 3pm and Patrick Feeney from 3pm to 5pm, among others.
The ever popular Rose of the Show contest will see the finalists for the coveted title interviewed on stage with their escorts before the lucky winner is crowned.
Finish off the day by taking to the dance floor to Jimmy Buckley and his band in the Grove Hall.
The committee would like to thank the many sponsors for their generousity and all of the exhibitors who travel from far and wide to Bonniconlon for the show.
For more information on the Bonniconlon Agricultural Show and Gymkhana, contact Gerry Durcan on (087 ) 6370073 or email [email protected].
