Screggan to become centre of Irish rural life next week
Screggan will become the centre of Irish agriculture, rural life, enterprise and innovation next week as the National Ploughing Championships takes place.
At the heart of it all is the ploughing, with more than 350 competitors and 34 unique classes taking place across the Championships. Adding an international dimension, the Five Nations Ploughing Competition will also take place over two days, adding to what promises to be a fantastic programme of competitive ploughing.
Machinery is set for a particularly strong showing, with an increase in machinery exhibitors and a number of new companies attending for 2026, joining many of the familiar names that visitors return to see each year. The Motor Arena has also grown, with more car companies exhibiting and a wide selection of cars and commercial vehicles on display.
The international appeal of the championships continues to grow, with particularly strong representation from Northern Ireland, alongside exhibitors travelling from Scotland, England, France, the Czech Republic and New Zealand.
There will be a fantastic variety of livestock across the three days, combining major competitions with an extensive selection of breeds and displays. The Growvite All-Ireland Aberdeen Angus Finals take place on Tuesday, while Wednesday brings the Irish Simmental National Calf Finals and Certified Irish Angus Schools Competition. Visitors can also explore the popular Sheep Tunnel and Sheep Shearing Tent, alongside many other livestock attractions.
The future of farming will be on show at the Enterprise Ireland Innovation Arena, where Irish agritech businesses and innovators will showcase new ideas and solutions. Joining its established awards for 2026 is the new Young Innovator of the Year Award, putting the spotlight on the next generation of agricultural innovation.
There is a new generation taking part in another Ploughing favourite too. The National Brown Bread Baking Competition, sponsored by Euronics and in association with the NPA and ICA, introduces the Junior Competition for young bakers aged 12–18. Sixteen finalists – eight junior and eight senior – will bake live during the Championships, with both 2026 winners crowned on Thursday.
Irish food will feature right across the site, from traditional favourites to artisan produce and emerging food businesses. Midlands Flavours will showcase producers from across the region, while the wider championships will offer visitors the opportunity to discover the variety and creativity of Ireland’s food and drink sector.
There will be something happening around every corner, with fashion shows, pony games, working hunter trials, carriage driving, Tug-of-War, vintage displays, threshing, Meggers, welly throwing, a funfair, music, dancing, cookery demonstrations and the Most Appropriately Dressed Lady & Gentleman Competition all adding to the atmosphere. Hourly HSA demonstrations will also run throughout the event, while exhibitors across the site will host their own talks, demonstrations, competitions and entertainment.