All systems go for Arva Agricultural Show

Show launch took place in the Breffni Arms Hotel on Saturday.

Arva Agricultural Show Society will hold its 65th annual show on July 28 in the Show Field with the kind permission of Philomena Fyfe. The committee held its official launch last Saturday night in the Breffni Arms Hotel where a large crowd gathered for the occasion.

According to show secretary, Alannah Finnegan - who was crowned the Blue Jean Country Queen 2024 in Athboy last week - this year promises plenty of excitement with entry forms available online.

During the launch, chairman, Jim Finnegan thanked all those involved in the event and those who continue to support the show year in and year out.

Jim also pointed to the challenges faced by the organisation last year and the “remarkable resilience” of everyone in the face of adverse weather conditions.

He also thanked Minister for Community Development, Heather Humphreys who has pledged €1M this year to agricultural shows across the country.

“It makes a massive difference to us and allows us to look at including more sustainable practices,” he added. “I want to congratulate Alannah for her achievements in Athboy last weekend. This is the first time a Cavan person has received this title.”

Meanwhile, sponsors were also to the fore on the night. Thomas Brady from Lakeland Dairies pointed to the company’s All-Ireland Dairy Bred Beef class which will take place during this summer’s proceedings. The class boasts a prize fund of €1,000, and originated from the Department of Agriculture’s National Dairy Beef Welfare Scheme.

Irish Shows Association President, Raymond Brady recalled his early memories of being involved in the show, and highlighted the “strong” community spirit that kept him coming back to get more involved.

So with all systems go for this year’s Arva Show, what can show goers expect? Classes in cattle, horses, sheep, goats, poultry and homecrafts will feature heavily as usual and there will be plenty for everyone to enjoy.

Entertainment on the day will include free children’s activities, a dog show and there will also be live music with Johnny Brady at the Show Dance in the Breffni Arms Hotel at 10pm.