National Ploughing Championships Set to Deliver Food, Family Fun and More
Celia Holman Lee models Asta Lee, Kelly Ross and Alannah Maher Daly with Samantha Ginty and her Dorset Ram Earl on site at Screggan, Tullamore for the launch of this year’s National Ploughing Championships to be held 15th-17th September next. Photo: Alf Harvey.
The National Ploughing Championships is once again preparing to welcome hundreds of thousands of visitors for what promises to be three action-packed days celebrating Irish agriculture, innovation, food and family entertainment.
While ploughing competitions and farming demonstrations remain at the heart of the event, the championships have evolved into one of the largest outdoor exhibitions in Europe, attracting exhibitors, food producers, entrepreneurs and community organisations from across the country.
Each year, visitors travel from every county to experience the unique atmosphere, browse hundreds of exhibition stands and enjoy a packed programme of activities that continues to make the event one of the highlights of the Irish calendar.
Food Village a Major Attraction For many visitors, the Food Village has become one of the biggest draws of the championships.
The area brings together some of Ireland's best-known food brands alongside smaller artisan producers, offering a wide range of products that showcase the quality and diversity of Irish food.
From handcrafted chocolates and specialty cheeses to gourmet burgers, fresh bakes, preserves and locally produced treats, there is something to satisfy every taste. Visitors can sample products, meet producers and learn about the stories behind many of the businesses that have grown from small family enterprises into nationally recognised brands.
The Food Village also provides an important platform for emerging businesses looking to expand their reach and connect directly with new customers. For many producers, the championships represent one of the most valuable opportunities of the year to promote their products to a large and diverse audience.
As crowds make their way through the exhibition grounds, food stalls are expected to remain among the busiest areas on site throughout the three-day event.
Oh My Cookies Celebrates New Waterford Addition Among the growing Irish businesses attracting attention this year is Oh My Cookies, which continues to expand its footprint following the opening of a new location in Waterford.
The company has built a loyal following through its range of freshly baked cookies, dessert creations and colourful social media presence. What began as a small venture has developed into a recognised Irish brand that continues to attract customers across the country.
The opening of the Waterford addition marks another milestone for the business and reflects increasing demand for its products throughout the south-east region.
Speaking about the expansion, the company has highlighted the importance of bringing its products to new communities while maintaining the quality and customer experience that helped establish its reputation.
The National Ploughing Championships provides an ideal setting for businesses such as Oh My Cookies to engage directly with customers, introduce new products and build brand awareness among thousands of visitors.
With food traders traditionally enjoying strong footfall during the event, the championships offer an opportunity not only to generate sales but also to create lasting connections with customers who may become long-term supporters of local businesses.
Hundreds of Exhibitors Under One Roof.
One of the unique aspects of the National Ploughing Championships is the sheer variety of exhibitors on display.
While agriculture remains the centrepiece, visitors can explore hundreds of stands covering areas such as technology, education, machinery, home and garden, finance, health, sustainability, tourism and retail.
Major machinery manufacturers will once again showcase the latest developments in agricultural equipment, while innovation-focused exhibitors will demonstrate new technologies designed to improve efficiency and sustainability in farming.
Alongside the larger companies, smaller enterprises and family-run businesses have an opportunity to reach audiences they may not otherwise encounter.
Many businesses use the championships to launch products, announce expansions and test new ideas.
The direct engagement offered by the event allows companies to receive immediate feedback from customers while increasing visibility in a competitive marketplace.
For visitors, the exhibition provides a chance to discover new products and services while learning about developments across a wide range of industries.
A Great Day Out for Families
Although farming is at the core of the championships, family entertainment continues to play a major role in the success of the event.
Organisers have worked to ensure there is something for every age group, making the championships an attractive day out even for those without a farming background.
Across the site, live demonstrations and hands-on exhibits help bring rural life to life for families who may be less familiar with the agricultural sector.
Adults can enjoy machinery displays, cooking demonstrations, trade exhibitions and live entertainment while taking in the vibrant atmosphere that has become synonymous with the championships.
Significant Economic Impact
Beyond the event grounds, the National Ploughing Championships deliver a substantial boost to local economies.
Hotels, guesthouses, restaurants, cafés and retail businesses in host counties traditionally experience increased demand as visitors arrive in large numbers.
The championships also create valuable opportunities for exhibitors and traders, many of whom generate significant sales during the event while establishing new customer relationships that continue long after the final day.
For growing businesses such as Oh My Cookies, participation provides an opportunity to celebrate recent successes while strengthening their profile among a national audience.
The championships continue to play an important role in supporting Irish enterprise by creating a space where businesses can showcase innovation, connect with consumers and network with industry leaders.
Looking Ahead
As excitement continues to build ahead of this year's National Ploughing Championships, organisers are promising an event that reflects the very best of Irish agriculture, entrepreneurship and community spirit.
From the bustling Food Village and the growing success story of Oh My Cookies' new Waterford location to the hundreds of exhibitors, family-friendly attractions and live demonstrations, visitors can expect a packed programme filled with opportunities to learn, explore and enjoy.
For many, the championships are more than just an agricultural event. They are a celebration of Irish business, local food, innovation and family life, bringing together people from every part of the country for an experience that remains one of the most anticipated gatherings of the year.


