There will be over 140 stalls at Glenties Harvest Fair this year

Arguably one of the longest running fairs in the country, Glenties Harvest Fair is certain to be a massive success, once again, this year.

The fair used to run on a monthly basis many years ago, it then changed to being run on a  quarterly basis. The September fair stood the test of time only being stalled during the pandemic. 

Last year, the event proved a massive success. The hard-working committee introduced new events and were delighted to get up and running again following the pandemic. A spokesperson for Glenties Harvest Fair, community worker, Brian Carr said last year there were 130 stalls at the fair but that number has increased, so far, this year. 

“We already have one hundred and forty stalls registered with us and we are expecting more than that. We had a meeting last night and all is going well - we are ready and prepared. We are all working hard towards it,” he said. 

A member of the Glenties Community Development Group, Mr Carr, has been to the fore in the organisation of the event over the years. 

This year you will see a sheep auction live on the street on Glenties Harvest Fair day: “ They are going to have an auction on the street - young Leo McCloone is looking after that,” he said.  

Other events include, on Friday, September 8, there will be a pet show at 6pm at Sonny's Bar. There will be music by Red Alert in the marquee at 7.30pm. A firm favourite with many Breezy's Bake Bread for Peace takes place at 2pm in the Glen Tavern. Saturday the Horticultural show will take place in the Market Hall. 

Fun and sports kick off at 11am with the Patsy Furey Competition and 3pm sees the Matthew Mannering 7-aside. At 6pm, people can enjoy a Queen tribute act. The King and Queen Harvest Fair Dance begins at 11pm with music by the Humble Earthworms. 

On Sunday, people can enjoy street music with Conor O'Donnell. The street will come alive with colour at 4pm as the float and marching bands stream down the street. 

Jimmy Buckley fans will be delighted to hear the star will perform in Highland's Hotel from 6pm. The Geocache Treasure Hunt will provide fun galore on Monday. 

Tuesday promises to be spectacular with it being traditional fair day, people can enjoy street traders, traditional crafts and exhibitions, the sheep mart and auction, traditional music and dancing. The evening comes to a close with entertainment in many of the public houses.

On Sunday, begins with the annual harvest fair cycle followed by a kid's tractor run. For more information, please here.

Tuesday and Thursday also have plenty to offer with the Charles McGuinness 5k Perpetual Cup flat course, kids athletics events and comes to a conclusion with a darts competition in Sonny's Bar.