Cahirmee Horse Fair Date Confirmed: Monday 14 July

Organisers have moved to clarify confusion surrounding this year's historic Cahirmee Horse Fair in Buttevant, confirming the event will take place on Monday, 14 July 2025, not Saturday 12 July as has been mistakenly circulated on social media.

The centuries-old fair, which traditionally falls on 12 July each year, has been rescheduled to the Monday to avoid weekend disruption. The clarification comes as traders and visitors from across Ireland and beyond begin planning their trips to one of Europe's oldest horse fairs.

Road diversions will be in place on the N20 throughout Monday, with traffic management measures expected to begin early morning to accommodate the thousands of visitors who typically attend the event. Local authorities advise motorists to plan alternative routes or expect delays when travelling through Buttevant.

The fair, which dates back centuries and was originally held at the Fair Field of Cahirmee before moving into the town in 1921, has only been cancelled during the two World Wars and the COVID-19 pandemic. Its illustrious history includes the sale of horses that went on to carry both Napoleon and the Duke of Wellington into battle.

The event draws horse traders, buyers and enthusiasts from across Ireland, the UK and continental Europe, transforming Buttevant's streets into a bustling marketplace of equine commerce. Alongside the horse trading, visitors can expect food stalls, traditional crafts and the unique atmosphere that has made Cahirmee a fixture in the Irish cultural calendar.

Those planning to attend are urged to share the correct date to prevent unnecessary journeys on Saturday. The fair begins early Monday morning and continues throughout the day, with peak activity typically occurring between 10am and 2pm.

For traffic updates and road closure information on the day, motorists are advised to check local traffic reports or contact Cork County Council.