GALLERY: Moynalty draws record crowds at the 50th anniversary Moynalty Steam Threshing festival
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Up to 60,000 people attended the 50th anniversary Moynalty Steam Threshing festival on Sunday in what was hailed as the most successful and exciting ever.
The crowds were delighted to see the threshing mills in action, driven by 53 steam engines - they had been aiming for 50 - one for every year of the festival.
Another huge attraction was the dedicated blacksmith arena where craftsmen forged iron chains and other pieces using cold forging techniques.
The arena also featured the inaugural International Farrier Competition, featuring over 50 skilled farriers from across the globe. The 50th anniversary was marked by the unveiling of a plaque by Tanaiste, Simon Harris, and Minister Helen McEntee.
The music with Derek Ryan, Matt Leavy, The Highstool Prophets and Gavin Gribben proved a huge hit and the crowds were particularly interested in the various craft stalls, while the steam rides for children were extremely busy throughout the day.
The celebrations began on Saturday evening with road making demonstrations, steam engines in operation, food stalls and live music performances from Claire Dillon, Gribben, and Ted Nevin. A charity tractor run departed from the festival field, with all proceeds going to the Bone Marrow Transplant Foundation Ireland.
"We want to thank the community and all the local organisations that helped, the gardai, everyone who brought exhibits from all over the country, the landowners, the neighbouring communities and organisations, and all those who helped with stewarding," said PRO Ronan Gaynor. There was a big clean up on Monday morning.
"I'd like to thank all who helped out, especially all the children who came and picked litter."
Ronan said that Saturday evenings events proved so popular they will be looking at the possibility of two day events in the future. Meanwhile, as the clean up continues, plans are already being made for the 2026 Festival.