Mullingar Show reaches 179 years

The Mullingar Agricultural Show Committee will stage their 179th annual show in Cullion on Sunday July 14. As preparations continued on the grounds last week, members of the show committee were hopeful the weather gods would be kinder to them than last year when the show had to be cancelled at very short notice.

Looking forward to the event, Paddy Donnelly, the show’s PRO, said all of the major attractions of previous years will be back this summer, with an increased emphasis on family fun, thanks to face painting, bouncing castles, a play trailer and slides. Live music will feature prominently too.

Of course being an agricultural show, all aspects of the farm community will be catered for and a €2,000 beef competition is one of the major attractions.

Mullingar will also host the all-Ireland final of the Charolais Sheep competition for the first time in its history.

There will sheep dog demonstrations, sheep shearing, country markets, showjumping in both the sand arena and in the front field, while there will also be competitions for the best dressed lady and the most appropriately dressed lady and gentleman. One of the most popular events each year is the dog show, with terrific prizes on offer.

Being the year of Gatherings in Ireland, Mullingar Show is playing its part, with its offering of A taste of Argentina, Paddy said.

There will be an Argentine stand, featuring the national flag, and a number of Argentine people meeting some of the many Westmeath people who have family ties with the South American country.

Westmeath born professional genealogist, Helen Kelly, will be attending the show and will provide free advice to people who would like to research their family tree, particularly those who might have an Argentinian connection.