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The Cork Summer Show 2024 is set to highlight sustainability, opening on Saturday, 15 June, and running through Sunday, 16 June. This year’s event is filled with eco-friendly initiatives designed to minimise environmental impact and foster a greater connection with nature.
Eco-Friendly Practices
Visitors are encouraged to bring their own water bottles and reusable cups. A ‘Mobile Hydration Station’ provided by Refill, supported by Cork County Council, will supply fresh, filtered water for refills. All hot beverage vendors will accept reusable cups, and food and drink stalls will use sustainable packaging. Segregated waste bins for recyclable, compostable, and general waste will be available throughout the event.
Additionally, the national deposit return system, Re-Turn, will have charity donation bins for bottles and cans. Deposits collected will support local charities, turning waste into valuable contributions for good causes.
Transport and Accessibility
Bus Éireann has extended the 208 bus service, providing direct transport to the event. The service will run from 07:00 to 20:30 on both days, with discounts for Leap Card holders. This convenient and cost-effective option ensures visitors can easily access the show.
Educational and Interactive Exhibits
University College Cork (UCC) will showcase their grassland biodiversity project, supported by Munster Agricultural Society. Visitors can explore a test plot on-site and engage with experts from UCC’s School of Biological, Earth, and Environmental Sciences.
Event Highlights
The Cork Summer Show, a staple of the season for tens of thousands from Cork and Munster, features over 20 themed zones. From traditional agricultural competitions and equestrian events to a diverse range of stalls and displays, the showgrounds at Curraheen offer an abundance of activities.
Entertainment and Activities
The main stage, complete with straw bale seating, will host performances by Jerry Fish, James Keegan, Fiona Kennedy, Gina and the Champions, the Céilí Allstars, DJ Jim X Comet, and various kid-friendly acts. Attendees can enjoy picnics at over a hundred tables, sampling food from the vibrant food village or bringing their own packed lunches.
Visitors can meet farm animals, explore agricultural exhibits, attend culinary demonstrations by top chefs, and participate in talks by food experts. Educational exhibits, agri-tech displays, vintage motors, and market stalls featuring local arts, crafts, and food will also be featured.
For thrill-seekers, the funfair offers excitement, while the pet dog show and pet zone provide adorable attractions. Special displays include tethered hot air balloons from Ballooning Ireland and a tug-of-war championship with TOWI.
Local Enterprise Zone
The Local Enterprise Zone, supported by Cork’s Local Enterprise Offices, will showcase 50 local businesses, highlighting arts, crafts, food, clothing, and more. This marquee offers an opportunity to meet and support local entrepreneurs and discover innovative Cork products.
Talks and Lectures
The event will host various interactive lectures, talks, and demos:
- Food Zone: Featuring chefs Mathew Brownie, Athula Kuruppuachchige, Alexandre Petit, and Deirdre Doyle, with talks by Dr Alan Kelly, Kara O’Donnell, and Cathy Fitzgibbon.
- Horticulture and Floral Art Zones: Lectures by experts from AOIFA and demonstrations of UCC’s biodiversity project.
The Cork Summer Show is an ideal family outing, offering a plethora of activities and learning opportunities. For more details and ticket information, visit Cork Summer Show.