We all know that there are some events during the year that are a ‘not to be missed’ day. The Iverk Show is one of those. Held annually on the fourth Saturday of August in the village of Piltown, this agricultural and family show began way back in 1826.
The Iverk Show has always been regarded as a great place to meet family and friends. The atmosphere is relaxed and friendly. There are places to sit down and rest. It really is just one of those special days.
Here are some reasons why you should not miss this year’s show on Saturday the 26th August:
1. Arts and Crafts: the skills of the art and craft makers are fantastic. So much time and patience go into the making of these exhibits. This marquee is a must to visit!
2. Show Horses: we have the ‘All-Ireland Broodmare and Foal Team Championship Final’ for qualified mares and foals from all over the country. Watch the grooms show off these to their best on the beautifully manicured GAA pitch. The graceful ladies side saddle is magnificent.
3. Vegetables: on entering the Iverk Show grounds, the first competitions you will see are the vegetables. Do you ever wonder how an exhibitor can grow a carrot up to two feet long and perfectly straight? Well, you will have to come along and ask as we cannot reveal the ‘growing for show’ secrets!
4. Poultry: have you ever put your head into the Red Mills poultry marquee and walked around? It is a fascinating exercise. It is amazing how many different breeds there are – big ones, small ones, heavy soft feathered, light soft feathered, bantams, Barbu d’Anvers and Pekins to name but a few. There are also some water fowls and much more.
5. Vintage Display: one of the most interesting areas of the Iverk Show is the vintage display, especially for those of us who are on the wrong side of fifty. It can bring tears to the eyes as you recall parts of our lives of yesteryear. From old cars, tractors and machines to engines, tools and equipment, all tenderly and lovingly cared for. One could spend a couple of hours reminiscing with their owners.
6. Iverk Show Baking: one of the best jobs on Show Day must be the judging of the baking classes. Even as you walk past the exhibits, the sight and smell would make your mouth water. The creations made by the exhibitors are magnificent. Their talent is truly to be admired.
7. Iverk Show Dog Classes: set on the beautiful GAA pitch, the two rings are perfect for show dogs to do their best. There are classes for pedigree and non-pedigree dogs, small or large ones, from terriers to gun dogs, from rescue to fancy dress dogs. Unlike other sections in the show, entries are taken on the day.
8. Cattle: 2023 will be no different from the very first Iverk Show, as cattle classes are a major part of the programme. The big ones again are the three Aldi, ABP, Irish Angus All Ireland Bull Calf Championships. The ‘Maid of Avonmore’ returns as the ‘Maid of Tirlán.’ There are classes for Shorthorn, Hereford, Aubrac, Simmental, Blonde D’Aquitaine, Limousin, Charolais and Belgian Blue.
9. Fashion Show: The Iverk Show catwalk will be back in use again. Participating stores include Dove Hill – from Carrick on Suir. Connolly’s Red Mills Store, Lily Rose Boutique, Lady Lorna Designer Emporium and Vila – from Kilkenny. Corcra, Jillies Children’s Boutique and Pavoni – from Clonmel. Benetton, TRM, Regatta and Adara – from Waterford. They will be displaying the latest fashion in ladies, gents, and children’s clothes. The models, as always, will be local people so it is a great opportunity – especially for young people who have a modelling career in mind – to give it a try. There is the bonny baby competition where every baby entered on the day gets a prize, and the ‘Best Dressed Lady’ also boasts some great prizes.
10. Of course, there is much, much more to see; free children’s play area, all day music, a new dance floor and tug of war are just some to name.
Free parking on the day. Come early and enjoy your day at the Iverk Show!
