THOUSANDS ATTEND SHOW
FAIRWOOD Park in Tinahely was once again a sea of people on August Bank Holiday Monday as the 83rd Tinahely Show took place.
From early morning until late into the evening, spectators enjoyed all that this popular Wicklow event has to offer. A true celebration of rural life, this year’s show boasted a new layout which went down a treat with those who travelled from near and far to enjoy this memorable day out. Committee PRO Joyce Kearney said that the atmosphere this year was somewhat different to others, as if the show almost had renewed vigour.
‘ There was something about the show this year that many people remarked on. We changed the layout and we also had more space on which to spread it out and that seemed to go down well with people. There was a great mood in the air and everyone was having a great time. So much of the feedback already indicates that the show was a great success and that there were thousands of happy visitors,’ she said.
According to Joyce there were countless highlights this year, and many people enjoy many different aspects of the show, but the appearance of Declan Nerney and the massive dancefloor which wasn’t empty for a moment, was certainly a crowd-pleaser.
‘ The layout around the stage is like an amphitheatre and the crowds were sitting all around to enjoy the show. Country music has made a huge comeback and this was certainly a popular attraction. There were people dancing all day long,’ Joyce added.
While the Tinahely Show has always been known as a rural event, it has diversified vastly in recent years and this year, according to Joyce, fashion was one of the winners in the attractions stakes.
‘ There were two shows in the fashion marquee which was beautifully decorated. The style was just something else and featured Deirdre Minogue, Rathwood, Jack and Jones, Oonagh Conroy and was hosted by Marietta Doran who many will know from her television appearances. The feedback was excellent,’ Joyce said.
While the show wound down on Monday, evening the dedicated volunteers were hard at work yesterday morning once again restoring Fairwood Park to its natural glory.