The Ossory Agricultural Show celebrates and showcases the best in Irish agriculture and rural life.

Taking part annually in Coolfin, the show first began in 1898 in Donaghmore. In 1915 the show moved to Rathdowney, and remained there, save for one year, when the event was held in Ballacolla in 1999.

The Show moved from the Showgrounds in Rathdowney (where the town's hurling pitch and the Showgrounds housing estate now stands) to Coolfin, and has remained in Coolfin since 2000.

Though not the oldest in Ireland, it was the longest running agricultural show in the country, taking place every year, without a break – a record spanning from 1898 to 2019 inclusive. 

Originally named after Lord Castletown, its local patron who was the Baron of Ossory, Lord Castletown lived at the nearby Granstown Manor, part of which is still standing.

Pictured: The recent launch of the 2025 Ossory Agricultural Show. Photos by Alf Harvey

127 years on, the Ossory show is a summer highlight for Laois locals and those further afield.

The Ossory Show now features dozens of displays, competitions, vendors, entertainment and workshops.

With such a diverse range of inclusive agricultural classes, the Ossory Show features bakers, makers, vendors and spenders.

Craft competitions will feature plenty of categories; there will be six classes for jams, and almost 30 categories in baking competitions.

Another of the main attractions is the popular Hunt Chase, run over a course of 8 to 10 fences, with teams from all over Ireland competing.

In 2023 the addition of a Vintage Corn Cutting Display was added alongside the long established Vintage Threshing Demonstration, both of which will take place again in the 2025 Show.

Also on display will be a huge collection of vintage vehicles in the show’s Vintage and Classic, Car & Tractor Show. 
The show will feature competitions such as tractor pulling, the donkey derby, and tug of war, along with plenty of 'Best Dressed' categories for attendees.

Many children will don their Sunday best for the 'Little Miss Ossory' and 'Little Master Ossory' competitions.

Pictured: The 2014 Little Miss Ossory winners, Ellie O’Sullivan, Rathdowney; Amy Moynan, Rathdowney and Louise Stanley. Photos by Alf Harvey

A Trucker’s Night will take place at the Ossory Showgrounds on the preceding night, July 26th, with live music, food and drinks. Camping facilities will be available at the venue. A donation from proceeds will be made to Laois Hospice.

Bring your pampered pooches along to the Ossory Dog Show, which will feature twelve different classes.

“There’s also something for everyone at the Ossory Show’s hotly contested Charm & Style Competitions. Whether you have a bonnie baby, a wobbler toddler, or just a natural flair for fashion, then this is the one for you,”organisers said.

“Our show offers something for everyone, from livestock competitions to vintage vehicle displays to kids activities and amusements.

“Make unforgettable memories with your loved ones as you take in the sights and sounds of the Ossory Agricultural Show,” they finished.

The 127th Ossory Agricultural Show was launched on Thursday July 9 by organisers and sponsors.

This year's show will take place on Sunday July 27, at the Ossory Showgrounds, Coolfin Rathdowney, Co. Laois - R32P7F8.
See their Facebook page for the closing date of competition categories.

IN PICTURES: See the launch of this year's Ossory Show!