Cork Summer Show Returns to Curraheen This Weekend

Munster's longest-running agricultural showcase, the Cork Summer Show, returns to the Curraheen showgrounds this weekend on Saturday 20 and Sunday 21 June, with over 45,000 visitors expected. With free shuttle buses, extra parking and an extended bus service in place, organisers are encouraging attendees to plan their journey in advance.

With large crowds expected over the two days, a range of transport options is in place to make getting there easier. Free shuttle buses will operate from Ballincollig Shopping Centre, Black Ash Park & Ride, Curraheen Greyhound Stadium and the Le Cheile building at MTU's Bishopstown Campus. There is also increased parking capacity at MTU's Bishopstown Campus this year, again at the Le Cheile building.

An extended 208 Bus Éireann service will run from 10am to 6pm on both days, connecting key areas across Cork city before continuing on to the showgrounds in Curraheen.

New additions to this year's line-up include the Agri Aware Talks and Demonstration Marquee, a live working farm experience, machinery demonstrations, the Cork Reenactment Military Show, the RSA Education Truck, Tug of War Ireland, and a new dressage demonstration on the Sunday. Rabbits and guinea pigs will also join the poultry marquee on the Saturday, while musical additions include Bog Jazz and the Swift Show Tribute Band.

The new dressage demonstration will feature dressage coach and Grand Prix winner Sue Smallman, alongside Irish U25 Champion and international dressage rider Emily Kate Robinson. The pair will showcase movements from the highest level of dressage, Grand Prix, including half passes in trot and canter, canter pirouettes and flying changes.

A major focus for 2026 is agricultural education. The Agri Aware marquee, the live working farm experience, milking demonstrations and machinery displays will give families and city-based visitors a closer understanding of modern rural life. Across the weekend, competitors will take part in livestock, equestrian, poultry, craft, baking, horticulture and home industry classes, continuing the show's long tradition as one of Munster's key platforms for agricultural and community competition.

This year's live entertainment programme will also feature DJ Jim X Comet, Two Time Polka, Boolaboom and Zurrito. Returning favourites include chick hatchings, tractor displays, baking classes, pony experiences, artisan markets, floral art demonstrations by members of AOIFA on the Sunday, livestock and equestrian competitions, and the ever-popular Kids' Zone and Funfair.

This year's official charity partner is Cork City Missing Persons Search and Recovery, which this year celebrates 25 years of dedicated voluntary service, supporting families through some of the most difficult and uncertain moments of their lives.

The show's platinum sponsors are Munster Agricultural Society, Cork City Council and Cork County Council, with additional support from Bus Éireann. Media partners are 96FM and C103FM, and the Irish Examiner.

The Munster Agricultural Society was founded in 1805, making it one of the oldest societies of its kind in Ireland, with the first official Cork Summer Show held in 1810. The show moved to its current home at Curraheen in 2012. More on the society's history is available online.

The full schedule of events and tickets are available at www.corksummershow.com.