Clonmany Agricultural Show returns for 57th year with Guinness World Record sheaf throwing attempt
The Clonmany Agricultural Show returns to Inishowen on August 4 and 5, with one of its most ambitious programmes to date, including a Guinness World Record attempt at sheaf throwing.
Donegal's premier agricultural show, which incorporates the Taste of Inishowen Food Festival and the North West Shearing Championships, is expected to draw thousands of visitors from across Ireland and beyond.
This year's show welcomes a headline line-up of special guests including Daniel and Majella O'Donnell, Margo, Daithí O'Sé and Noel Cunningham, alongside a full chefs' line-up featuring Brian McDermott, Paula McIntyre, Wendy Dempster, Jason McKay, Kateann Sexton and Peter Campbell, live Irish country music, jiving championships, cookery demonstrations and fashion shows.
At its agricultural heart, the show will host the All-Ireland Sheep Shearing and Open Sheep Shearing Championships, sheepdog trials, showjumping, and a full agricultural show encompassing livestock, home industries, poultry and rare breeds.
A Guinness World Record attempt at sheaf throwing, tug of war and monster draw feature alongside trade stands, food outlets, children's amusements, an environmental exhibition and a dedicated sensory marquee for children with special needs.
Sheaf throwing is a traditional sport in rural areas of Ireland and involves hurling bundle or sacks of straw over a high bar with a pitch fork.
This year’s show also features the North West Open Young Stockperson Championships in both sheep and cattle, the North West Open Ladies Stockperson Championship, and a junior baker championship across three age categories.
Chef Brian McDermott, who will headline the cookery demonstrations, said: "Donegal has some of the finest local produce in the country and events like Taste of Inishowen at the Clonmany Agricultural Show are where that story gets told. I always enjoy being part of this event and 2026 is going to be a great one."
Daithí O'Sé, who will appear at this year's show, said: "Clonmany is one of those shows that has everything: the animals, the food, the craic, the people. You don't get an event that happens for 57 years without a community that really cares, and you feel that the minute you arrive in Clonmany. There's a great energy to it and I'm looking forward to being part of it this year."
The Clonmany Agricultural Show takes place over Tuesday and Wednesday, August 4 and 5, 2026.
Further information about all the events check out the website at www.clonmanyshow.com