Farmers and Growers Have One Week Left to Enter Cork Summer Show Competitions

Cork Summer Show competition entries close Friday 6th June. Over 800 classes across livestock, equestrian, horticulture and crafts. Show runs 14-15 June at Cork Showgrounds.

Farmers and Growers Have One Week Left to Enter Cork Summer Show Competitions
Image: Clare Keogh

Competition entries for the Cork Summer Show close this Friday, 6th June, with organisers calling on farmers, breeders, growers and craftspeople across Ireland to submit their entries ahead of the show on 14th and 15th June.

The show, taking place at Cork Showgrounds in Curaheen, will feature over 800 competition classes spanning livestock, equestrian, horticulture, floral art and rural skills. This year marks the 220th anniversary of the Munster Agricultural Society, which organises Ireland's longest-running agricultural showcase.

Gerard Murphy, President of the Munster Agricultural Society, said the event celebrates "the skill, dedication and passion that drive rural Ireland." He encouraged both seasoned competitors and first-time entrants to participate, describing the show as "one of Ireland's longest-standing and most respected agricultural traditions."

Livestock judging will cover cattle, sheep, goats, poultry and rare breeds, with the Supreme Beef Champion remaining one of the show's most coveted awards. Irish Draught and sport horse breeders can compete in various in-hand and ridden classes, including sections specifically for younger riders and handlers. Pony mounted games and working hunter competitions will also feature.

The horticultural competitions, held in the Floral Art and Vegetable Marquees, are supported by partners including the National Vegetable Society and the Association of Irish Floral Artists. Categories range from cut flowers and kitchen garden vegetables to floral installations and home produce.

Beyond the competitions, this year's programme includes traditional skills demonstrations such as stick making and basket weaving, plus the return of the Field of Dreams initiative by Down Syndrome Cork, which highlights inclusive horticulture and food growing.

Entertainment will include live music from Mundy on Sunday, 15th June, and cookery demonstrations from chefs including TikTok's Edgar Kirby, Orla McAndrew, and The Culinary Celt. Sheep shearing demonstrations by David Kelly will run on Sunday from 12pm to 4:30pm.

The show will operate from 9am to 6pm both days. Free shuttle buses will run from Ballincollig Shopping Centre, Black Ash Park & Ride, and Curraheen Greyhound Stadium, with an extended Bus Éireann 208 route providing direct access to the showgrounds.

My Canine Companion, which provides accredited autism service dogs to children and families across Ireland, serves as this year's official charity partner.

Competition entries are available online at corksummershow.com/competitions, with early entry advised for livestock, equestrian and horticulture categories. Children under sixteen attend free but must be registered online in advance.