Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht Dara Calleary has announced an investment of over €1 million to support 123 agricultural shows across the country in 2025.

As part of the initiative, each show will receive a grant of between €4,260 and €11,410, depending on its size.

This funding will support the work of each of the 123 show committees as they prepare for the upcoming show season.

The funding announced today brings the total allocated to agricultural shows since 2018 to over €5.3 million.

Minister Calleary made the announcement as he launched the 2025 Yearbook for the Irish Show’s Association (ISA) at an event in the Athlone Springs Hotel today (Saturday, March 8).

The Department of Rural and Community Development will work with the Irish Shows Association (ISA) to administer the 2025 scheme.

Commenting on the funding, Minister Calleary said: "Agricultural shows are a key component of life in rural Ireland and I am delighted today to announce a further investment of €1 million to support 123 Agricultural Shows right across the country.

"Although farming practices have changed, agriculture is still the backbone of life in rural Ireland and plays a vital role in our national economy," he added.

The minister said that agricultural shows serve as a platform for local businesses, local farmers and for local craft and artisan food producers.

"The local show is also one of the best days of the year for meeting neighbours and friends... I would like to acknowledge the efforts of the show committees; the many dedicated volunteers and stewards; sponsors; local businesses; and organisations that each do their bit to ensure their local show is such a success," Minister Calleary said.

He added: "I would strongly encourage people to attend and support their local show. I am sure they will find the show has something to offer everyone."

The ISA said that the funding "has been such a boost to our shows in recent years, allowing our member shows to develop and grow, as well as investing in future-proofing and safety standards".

"On behalf of all our member shows, we wish to thank the minister and the Department of Rural and Community Development for this expression of confidence in our organisation and what we stand for. Shows are part of the beating heart of rural Ireland and long may that continue," the ISA said.

The table below shows the county breakdown of funding to agricultural shows in 2025: