by Mia Regan
A RECORD-breaking number of people attended the Ploughing Championships in Tullamore, Offaly, earlier this month, with Europe’s largest agricultural event attracted 225,000 visitors.
“This year, there were plenty of familiar faces and well-known brands everywhere.
“For those who aren’t too big into machinery and livestock, there was enough food, fashion and events for everyone. Schools from all over Ireland had taken a trip down to explore, including my school in Letterkenny.
“The Ploughing Championships had some big brand names again this year including, TikTok and its ‘TikTok shop’, with famous Irish creators on live stream and inside the building.
“The queue to get in was extremely long but the wait was worth it, with games, quizzes and free prizes on offer. A bucket hat was on offer for those who took part in the quiz and won.
“My friends and I took part and won a bucket hat each.”
Hundreds of businesses and retailers handed out free goody bags to visitors at the Ploughing Championships. There was lots on offer for people of all ages, including amusements.
“There were some insane rides, but they were definitely not suitable if you were wearing wellies – one or two of which could be seen flying through the air.
The rides included roller coasters, spinning chairs and tables, flying upside down cars and seats that sent you swinging you through the air.”
There were also lots of other attractions to suit all tastes, including a ‘BPerfect Bus’.
“BPerfect is a very well-known makeup brand that a lot of people love. The shop was set up in a decorated, double decker bus. Although I knew I wanted to go in, the line was just too long, spreading far past the bus.”
The Ploughing Championships is famed for its food and drinks stalls.
“Sos cookies are well known online for their amazing desserts and sweet treats, and churro, chip and crepe vans were also on offer, as well as Dubai Chocolate and Coca Cola vans.
“There was so much to choose from when it came to food.
“We tried loads of unique foods that you may not come across normally and it was all definitely a high rating.
“Overall, the Ploughing Championships was an amazing experience and I’m glad I got to experience it with my friends in school.”
