What's on at the Laois Scarecrow festival?

Huge crowds are set to flock to Durrow from next weekend for the 2024 edition of the fun-filled Durrow Scarecrow Festival!

Have you ever experienced the magic of a village coming to life with creativity, fun, and endless entertainment?

If not, then the Durrow Scarecrow Festival is a must-visit event for you and your family!

The festival organisers say that from July 28 to August 5, the south Laois village will be transformed into a “whimsical wonderland where every corner is brimming with excitement”. 

The 2024 edition also marks the final year that the event will run over nine days so it's not to be missed. 

“Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a festival veteran, there’s something for everyone to enjoy,” they say.

The All-Ireland Scarecrow Championship is the centrepiece event. Hay fever grips the village for the nine day festival. Entries from near and far are located around the village will be judged, before finally a winner will be announced on Sunday August 4.
There are multiple categories, including a new sustainability waste reduction / climate action section.

“Our advice is simply, choose whichever one suits you best and go for it,” say the organisers.

All entry forms must be submitted by July 24 and entries must be in place by Saturday, July 27 at 7pm. The creations must then remain in place until close of business on Monday, August 5. MORE BELOW PICTURE.

Dog show in 2023. Pic: Alf Harvey.

The festival kicks off on Sunday, July 28 with a grand opening by Bernard O'Shea at 1:15 PM, followed by live performances from the Durrow Pipe Band, the Kelly Brothers, Abbeyfolk, and The Finns.

The Scarecrow Village is set to be the hub of activities for the entire festival. Open daily, it features live music, puppet shows, bouncy castles, carnival games, face painting, clay workshops, and more! Dive into the heart of the festival where fun meets creativity.

Funky Zone is sure to be another attraction. Open daily from 11am to 6pm, it features Europe’s largest mega slide, a scarecrow maze, an Agri Aware pet farm, Lego and tons of games for kids of all ages.

Live Music will be a big draw. Dance to the tunes of local favorites like The Kelly Brothers, The Finns, Drops Of Green, Sweet Freedom, and the Des Hopkins Dixieland jazz Band. There’s live music every day to keep you grooving!

The festival will also feature workshops and activities. Get hands-on with cookie decorating, fairy door crafting, and even a kids' talent show. Perfect for keeping the little ones entertained and engaged.

Included is a Feel the Beat at the Rhythm & Drum Workshop. Perfect for all ages, the organisers say this workshop will have you moving to the beat and discovering the joy of drumming. More below picture.

Family fun at the 2023 edition. Pic Alf Harvey

The free event takes place on Tuesday, July 30 from 2pm until 3pm in the Scarecrow Village.

There'll also be something for young techies via free Coder Dojo sessions. It features VR headsets to podcasting and graphic tablets, experience hands-on tech fun and challenges! The sessions take place on Monday, July 29 at 2pm in the Scarecrow Village for ages 8 to 17 years. Spaces are limited, so arrive early and secure your spot!

Slime workshops are sure to be an attraction for the little ones.

“Join us for our Slime Workshops and dive into the gooey, stretchy, and super fun world of slime making. Perfect for kids to learn how to create your very own slime to take home,” they say.

The workshops take place on Monday, July 29 at 4pm and Thursday, August 1 at 3:30pm in the Scarecrow Village. They cost €12 and you'll be able to pre-book on the Festival Website. Don't miss out on this exciting, hands-on experience. Spaces are limited, so make sure to book your spot today and get ready to get slimy.

Laser Tag will be held in the small green opposite the Scarecrow Village from Monday, July 29 to Friday, August 2.

The festival team are delighted to have Clown Jeca back again and hope you'll keep an eye out for him at this year's festival.
The organisers also want you to be prepared to be amazed by the incredible Monsieur Gusto!

Great day out in 2023. Pic Alf Harvey

“This international escapologist, random object juggler, and balancer of strange things will leave you in awe with his spectacular performances. Don't miss out on the fun and excitement," they say.

The entertainer will be performing on Sunday, July 28 at 11:15am and 3.30pm at the Scarecrow Village.

“Bring your friends and family to witness jaw-dropping feats and enjoy a day full of wonder and laughter. Monsieur Gusto's performances are not to be missed,” add the organisers.

Outdoor adventures are also on the menu. Kayaking on the River Erkina, training sessions, family stroll in Dunmore Country School, and even a historical walk through Durrow. Embrace the great outdoors with family-friendly activities.

Dog lovers are invited to bring their pets to the Hund Obedience Dog Training sessions on Sunday, July 28 and Saturday, August 3 from 12pm to 3pm.

“Whether your pooch needs some general obedience training or you want to learn fun activities to enjoy together, we’ve got you covered,” say the organisers. To take part, meet at The Funky Zone.

“Join us for a pawsome time and make sure to bring your four-legged friend for an afternoon of learning, fun, and games,” add the festival team.

There will also be a great selection of festival special events. From a photographic exhibition by Annie Holland, a ladies' night at Castle Durrow to a Grand Slam Wrestling match, Duck Racing, and more, each day brings unique events that you won’t want to miss.

"This is not just a festival - it's an experience filled with laughter, joy, and countless memories waiting to be made," say the organisers.

Join them at the Durrow Scarecrow Festival and be part of a tradition that celebrates community spirit and creativity from July 28th - August 5th.

Admission: Adults €6, Children €1 (Scarecrow Village). Adults €4, children €1 (Funky Zone). Don’t miss out on the festival of the summer.

Volunteers Needed for Scarecrow Summer Camp from Monday 29th July to Friday 2nd August - 10am to 1pm Daily. Volunteers must be aged 18+. Contact (087) 9194428.

Booking is now open for all the festival events at www.durrowscarecrowfestival.com online to reserve your tickets today!

The Durrow Development Forum organises the festival. It says every cent raised during the week is placed firmly back into the village to complete on-going projects and to begin planning for new initiatives.

“Thank you to everyone who has supported our fundraising over the past years, and know that your support is invaluable to and appreciated,” says the Forum.