Bunratty Castle host variety of family-friendly events as part of Traditional Harvest Day

Strength and agility will soon be put to the test at Bunratty Castle and Folk Park as part of its long running Traditional Harvest Day event. 

The highly-anticipated sheaf throwing competition also returns with two of the sport's biggest names, Tipperary's Gary Carey and Donegal native Michael Gallagher, challenging competitors to beat their All-Ireland record throws of over 61 feet.

Rural Irish life and traditions from over a century ago will too be showcased as part this family friendly event, which will feature a display of vintage machinery and tractors, crafts demonstrations as well as dancers, musicians and performers from all over the Banner County taking part. 

A traditional threshing machine will be put to work, giving visitors an insight into how neighbours and friends once gathered during the harvest in the spirit of 'meitheal.' Enthusiasts will be on hand to speak about the evolution of vintage farm machinery that's on display, including tractors, and stationary engines. Visitors will also view a range of ploughs, hay rakes and root cutters (pulpers) for turnips and mangels.

The public will be able to witness local craftspeople at work, including Tom Delaney as he carries on the time-honoured tradition of basket making, while Elizabeth O’Connor and Geraldine O’Sullivan will demonstrate the ancient craft of wool spinning using locally sourced wool, a practice first introduced by Neolithic farmers over 6,000 years ago. Bunratty’s Bean an Tí’s will also be on hand throughout the day to demonstrate the art of bread and butter making, with tasting opportunities for those who pay a visit to the Golden Vale and Loop Head Farmhouses.

There will be entertainment from the Clare Céilí Band and friends, Sean Nós and Irish language singer MacDara Ó Conaola and resident musician Michael Grogan, while Seanchaí Mike ‘Mickey Joe’ Glynn will tell tales of bygone days and traditional ways from Corry’s Pub on the Village Street.  Traditional Irish dance performances will be provided by the Ball Hoban Academy of Dance.

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At the Old Schoolhouse, the school master will be on duty to greet children and adults as they hand over their customary sod of turf for the tiny schoolroom fire.

A range of native Irish and heritage breeds of animals will be located throughout the Folk Park paddocks on the day, including Irish red deer, peacocks, goats, geese, turkeys and Irish wolfhounds Míde and Rian.

Marie Brennan, Events Manager at Bunratty Castle and Folk Park, said, "The Folk Park's grounds, which feature a working farm with many native Irish animal breeds, is the perfect place to celebrate Harvest Day. Our event will give visitors a look into how neighbours and friends used to come together during the harvest season.

"Harvest Day was all about bringing communities together to support each other, celebrate and toast a successful season. Threshing was backbreaking work that started early and went on all day, with neighbours and friends gathering to help. The threshing machine itself was a special attraction for children. The moving belts, the noise, and the way it produced straw and oats were as captivating then as a video game is today.

"We are excited to offer a real glimpse into 19th-century rural Irish life and to celebrate the incredible sense of community and hospitality that existed during harvest time. Just like in the old-time fairs, there will be plenty of entertainment for visitors throughout the Folk Park," she concluded. 

The Traditional Harvest Day will take place on Sunday, September 7. 

Visit https://www.bunrattycastle.ie/ for more details.