It’s all systems go for 73rd Tydavnet Show!

Excitement is building in north Monaghan as preparations continue for the 73rd Annual Tydavnet Show, with organisers promising another packed day of family fun, agricultural excellence and community spirit when the show returns to Drumshevra, Scotstown, on Saturday, August 15.

The official launch of this year’s schedule took place in Tydavnet Community Centre last week, where volunteers, sponsors, local representatives and supporters gathered to celebrate one of the county’s most enduring rural traditions.

Committee chairperson Paula Loughran reflected on the success of last year’s event and expressed optimism that favourable weather would once again smile upon the showgrounds.

Noting that sunshine is never guaranteed at an Irish agricultural show, she joked: “I hope to see you all on the 15th of August with Factor 50 and your sunglasses on, but please make sure the wellies and raincoat are in the boot of the car just in case!”

Behind the scenes, preparations for the show are a year-round commitment. Planning for the next event begins almost as soon as the previous one ends, with a dedicated team of volunteers continuing their work long after visitors have gone home and the exhibits have been cleared away.

Their efforts help ensure that Tydavnet Show remains one of the highlights of the regional agricultural calendar, offering something for every member of the family. From livestock competitions and equestrian events to home industries, photography, children’s entertainment and the ever-popular dog show, the event continues to attract visitors from across the county and beyond.

During the launch, Ms Loughran also acknowledged the importance of financial support received from Government departments and Monaghan County Council.

“At this point, I also want to extend Tydavnet Show’s thanks and appreciation to Minister Calleary, Minister Heydon, their respective Departments and to Monaghan County Council for the funding allocations. This funding goes a long way to develop, grow and improve our shows,” she said.

A highlight of every launch is the announcement of the winner of the annual primary schools art competition, which determines the cover design for the show’s schedule and programme.

This year’s winner was Beibhinn McCormack, a fourth class pupil from Gaelscoil Ultain. Her colourful artwork was chosen from a large number of entries received from schools across the county.

Speaking to the Celt, Beibhinn explained the inspiration behind her design: “There’s usually tractors and animals on the cover. I love cows! I’ve been going to Tydavnet Show for a couple of years now. Last year my brother and me entered the jiving competition, we had great craic.”

Chief Executive of Monaghan County Council Robert Burns praised the show’s contribution to country life and reaffirmed the local authority’s commitment to supporting the event.

Describing Tydavnet Show as an institution with a proud 73-year heritage, he highlighted the central role agriculture continues to play in Monaghan’s economy.

“It represents our proud agricultural tradition. Twelve to 13 per cent of the people in Monaghan make their living off the land or through food processing. Nine out of the top 10 food producing companies in Ireland are actually based here in Monaghan and 90% of what we produce is exported,” he said.

Mr Burns also encouraged younger generations to become involved in community organisations and help secure the future of events such as Tydavnet Show for decades to come.

One young volunteer already doing exactly that is Áine Sherry, who has been involved with the show committee for approximately 10 years. As Chief Safety Officer, she plays a key role in organising the event while also overseeing trade stands, social media, the website and the programme.

“I do the whole shebang!” she laughed.

Her commitment to the show is unwavering. “As long as the show is here, I’ll be here,” she pledged.

The equestrian competition remains a major attraction and this year Tydavnet will once again host the prestigious All-Ireland Three-Year-Old Filly Final, drawing competitors from across the country.

The keynote speaker at the launch was Horse Sport Ireland CEO Dennis Duggan, whose organisation supports rural agricultural shows through funding provided by the Department of Agriculture.

In 2026, Horse Sport Ireland will distribute €620,000 in prize funding to more than 70 rural shows nationwide.

Mr Duggan paid tribute to the volunteers whose dedication keeps events like Tydavnet thriving.

“Agricultural shows occupy a very special place in Irish life. They’re about livestock, machinery, competition, ribbons, rosettes and trophies. More importantly, they’re about community,” he said.

“In a world that sometimes feels disconnected, agricultural shows remind us that some things matter deeply. Families and neighbours come together and knowledge gets passed from one generation to the next – that’s why shows like Tydavnet matter so much.”

Alongside the livestock and home industries sections, the popular All-Ireland Photography Final will also return this year, while a range of novelty competitions and family activities are expected to create plenty of excitement throughout the day.

Show president Suzanne Graham will oversee this year’s event, with entries closing on Thursday, August 6.

To make attendance easier, a complimentary shuttle bus sponsored by Ann McArdle’s A2B, will run between Monaghan Town and the showgrounds all day.

With strong community support, enthusiastic volunteers and another impressive programme of events planned, all roads now lead to Drumshevra as Tydavnet prepares to celebrate the very best of rural life once again.