​Preparations Underway For October Fair Week

The 2022 edition of Ireland's oldest horse fair takes place on Sunday 2nd , Monday 3rd & Saturday 8th. Visitors have been coming to town for centuries its legacy is known worldwide, it is a traditional Irish Horse Fair that which has remained steadfast in its origins into the 21st century. The way horses will be sold on the green in 2022 remains as it was centuries ago, which is what makes the event so unique.  

The hosting of the horse fair on the green, market stalls in the town centre & the funfair is the responsibility of the local municipal authority, the local festival committee has absolutely no remit whatsoever with any of these activities. As they have done so for centuries equine enthusiasts, local, national & international horse traders come to Ballinasloe for a fair regardless of any festival activities.   

The primary focus of the festival committee is to provide the community with a memorable & enjoyable experience while the horse fair takes place and to give the town a festival type atmosphere with free entertainment. 

This includes the pageantry of crowning a festival queen, music, and street entertainment on the festival sound stage, inviting celebrities / dignitaries to officially open the fair, host a heritage evening to illustrate the history of this great event, fireworks & family entertainment, children’s art. bakery & craft competitions, festival dog show, vintage display, motorcycle stunt show much much more.  

The voluntary festival committee has no direct source of income and are indebted to the many sponsors and contributors, without their support there would be no festival. Committee meetings are held every Monday evening in Gullane’s Hotel  in the 10 weeks lead up to the fair and if you would like to get involved, please contact the festival secretary @ 0872071869.

Volunteers are always welcome to give a hand and share ideas that could be used to enhance the festival element .  

To find out more visit the website: http://ballinasloeoctoberfair.com