Author: National Ploughing Association

With less than two weeks until one of Europe’s largest outdoor events, preparations in Ratheniska, Co Laois are seriously taking shape as this green field in the middle of Ireland transforms into the bustling hub that will become #Ploughing2024 taking place on September 17^th, 18^th & 19^th.

At today’s official launch, the media & special guests were given a sneak peek preview of what to expect as they were entertained by local performers from Laois while prize-winning animals, quality machines, fashion, horses & hounds were all on display. 

Launching the event, NPA Managing Director Anna May McHugh said “The Championships not only provides a national stage for showcasing all things agricultural, but also brings together people from all sectors of Irish society both rural and urban, to enjoy three days immersed in country living.”

There will be millions of euro worth of agricultural and plant machinery on display featuring an extensive range of cutting-edge agricultural technology and equipment.  The leading manufacturers and agents will be present with specialist sales advisors and technical experts available for free consultations.  There has already been huge interest to enter the prestigious ‘Machine of the Year’ competition.

Visitors can take the opportunity to admire the marvellous quality livestock on display and learn about livestock management, genetics, nutrition and healthcare.  

Recent crowned World Ploughing Champions Jer Coakley, West Cork and Eamonn Tracey, Carlow were greeted with great applause as they arrived adorned with medals and trophies. 

There is no doubt that the entrepreneurial spark is alive and well in Ireland with an unprecedented number of diverse and exciting businesses, exhibiting at the “Local Enterprise Village” at this year’s Ploughing Championships.  The popular Enterprise Ireland Innovation Arena is set to make a very welcome return with ground breaking technologies and cutting edge ideas that will amaze. 

Given the immense popularity of the Food & Lifestyle villages the huge ‘Dome’ & ‘Hub’ marquees are set to return creating the largest retail pop-up in the country.  The ‘Ploughing’ is a haven for foodies, as all sectors of the food chain are represented from producer to retailer, artisan foods, craft beers, celebrity chefs, cookery competitions and much more.

In the ploughing stakes the addition of the European Vintage Championships on Tuesday and Wednesday is attracting participants and their followers from England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland, Belgium, Ireland & Germany.

A particularly strong programme has attracted entries from all around the country and Northern Ireland bringing the number preparing to plough in Laois to over 300 for the 3 days, where a true ploughing master class will be on display.

All of the firm favourite attractions are set to return this year such as Fashion Shows, Meggers, Sheep Shearing, Hunt Chase, Fun Fair, Food Trail, Craft Demonstrations, Pony Games, Live Music and Dancing, Vintage Ploughing, Threshing, Fun Fair, Loy Digging, with celebrities and well known faces everywhere this year’s ‘Ploughing’ is not to be missed.

The Ploughing and FBD: Keeping You Safe child safety wristband project will be an important feature again at this year’s National Ploughing Championships, which will take place in Raheniska, Co Laois on September 17^th, 18^th & 19^th.   Over 40,000 of the safety wristbands will be handed-out at all of the event entrances, which will allow for a contact phone number to be written on the band in case the wearer wanders off amidst the large gathering. 

NPA Managing Director Anna May McHugh said “We are delighted to be partnering up with FBD again on this excellent safety concept as all can now rest assured that loved ones will be returned safely in case they wander away in the crowds that visit Ploughing.  With a huge number of attendees expected over the course of the 3 days these wristbands give reassurance and great peace-of-mind to all at the event and add immensely to visitor enjoyment experience.

A day at Ploughing is a brilliant family day with something of interest for all ages & tastes and children are particularly well catered for with a Playground, Baby Changing Areas, Fun Fair, Pony Games, Sporting Heroes, TV Stars, Sweet & Toy Stands and much more,” she added.

On behalf of the team at FBD, I am delighted to confirm we are continuing our longstanding relationship with the National Ploughing Association by supporting the child safety wristband initiative at the National Ploughing Championships again this year. Ensuring the safety and well-being of younger visitors is a top priority, and these wristbands have proven to be incredibly effective in helping to reunite children with their parents or loved ones, while providing peace of minds to families as they enjoy their day at ‘the Ploughing’. Our hope is that all children will wear the FBD wristbands and have a fun and safe day when they visit Ploughing 2024. Tomás Ó Midheach, CEO, FBD Insurance

All under 12s are free of charge once accompanied by an adult.  To guarantee ticket availability on  your day of choice please book online in advance www.npa.ie