Action packed schedule unveiled for tech billionare's Laois mansion

Thrilling races, captivating airshows and hands-on animal encounters are on offer at this year’s Family Day at Abbeyleix House and Farm on Sunday, June 29. 

Details of the Family Day at Abbeyleix House and Farm have now been revealed as anticipation builds ahead of the massively popular annual event later this month. 

The annual Family Day is a tradition which was continued on from previous owners by Stripe co-founder, John Collison, who bought Abbey Leix Estate in 2021 for an undisclosed sum.  

The tech billionaire and pilot has carried out extensive work on the Abbey Leix Estate and employed specialist craft workers to bring the mansion and surrounding buildings back to their former glory. Among the projects being undertaken is the restoration of Millbrook Manor, which Mr Collison bought to restore and transform into a top quality restaurant. 

The keen aviator has also added a touch of his own flair to the Family Day event which now features impressive aircraft and aerial displays at the picturesque setting.

Highlights of this year's event kick off with a Trail Run for pre-registered participants at 10.30am starting at Monks Bridge. Then the Laois Pony Club Relay Race takes place at the  Horse Arena from 12 noon to 1pm. From 1pm onwards an Aircraft Display and Airshow featuring the ‘Aviation in Laois- Fitz and the Famous Flight’ will take place around the Airstrip at Abbey Leix House and Estate. 

Attendees will be offered the opportunity to recharge with 20 minute guided relaxation with Sound Meditation Sessions at 12 noon, 1pm, 2pm, 3pm and 4pm at The Church.

Meanwhile, attendees can enjoy encounters with Alpacas, Goats, Bunnies and Guinea Pigs and Deer at different locations and times throughout the day. 

Alpaca Yarn Spinning demonstrations will take place in the craft demonstration area and there will also be craft stalls, live music, face painting, and balloon modelling. 

Laois Archery will offer visitors a chance to experience the sport in the Walled Garden and there will also be a Sensory Area and Kids’ Train Rides running regularly between the Stable Yard and the Airstrip. Visitors on the day will also get a chance to meet the event’s charity partners at the Stable Yard. 

Tickets can be purchased online through Eventbrite at:

http://AbbeyleixHouseandFarm-FamilyDay2025.eventbrite.ie

All vendor fees, ticket sales and sales from the Kitchen Pantry are donated directly to charity.

This year’s chosen charities are: Laois Homecoming Festival, Abbeyleix District Hospital, Abbeyleix and District Lions Club and LSPCA. There will be no tickets available on the day, pre-booking tickets is essential.

Onsite parking is complimentary but limited. Only guests with a car pass will be admitted and a spot must be reserved when booking tickets. A complimentary shuttle service runs from Abbeyleix town (The South School, R32PP79).

The event offers an unforgettable day of family fun, community spirit, and memorable experiences for all at the picturesque Abbeyleix House and Farm.