Ploughing will provide 'unrivalled platform' for Kildare
Into Kildare has said the event presents an opportunity to attract overnight visitors, support local businesses and introduce new audiences to Kildare’s food, heritage and visitor experiences
THE National Ploughing Championships could generate lasting benefits to Kildare’s tourism and enterprise sectors, according to the county’s tourism body.
The National Ploughing Championships will take place in Rathangan from 21–23 September 2027 and Into Kildare has said the event presents an opportunity to attract overnight visitors, support local businesses and introduce new audiences to Kildare’s food, heritage and visitor experiences, with early preparation key to maximising the benefits.
For accommodation providers, restaurants, cafés, retailers and visitor attractions, the opportunity extends beyond the three days of the Championships. Exhibitors and visitors travelling to Kildare could be encouraged to extend their stays and explore more of the county, bringing additional business after the peak summer season.
Jacqui McNabb, head of enterprise and economic development at Kildare County Council, said: "From a tourism and economic development perspective, we are delighted and honoured that County Kildare has the opportunity to host the National Ploughing Championships. As one of Ireland's largest and most prestigious events, it provides an unrivalled platform to showcase the very best of our county to a national and international audience. It is an opportunity to highlight Kildare as a place of enterprise, innovation, heritage and hospitality, while showcasing the strength of our local businesses, communities and tourism offering.
“The championships will bring thousands of visitors, exhibitors, media representatives and business leaders to the county, creating a unique opportunity to promote Kildare as a destination to visit, invest, live and do business.
“From our world-renowned equine industry and thriving enterprise sector to our rich cultural heritage, exceptional food producers and vibrant towns and villages, the event allows us to tell the story of modern Kildare and all that the county has to offer.
“Importantly, the benefits extend far beyond the event itself. Hosting the National Ploughing Championships will help strengthen business connections, raise the profile of the county, support local enterprise and tourism, and create lasting economic opportunities.
“We are immensely proud to welcome the Championships to Kildare and look forward to showcasing the ambition, innovation, warmth and spirit that makes our county such a special place.
“We would also like to acknowledge the exceptional work of Anna May, Anna Marie McHugh and the National Ploughing Association Committee, whose vision, dedication and professionalism have made the National Ploughing Championships one of Ireland's most successful and respected events.
“We look forward to working closely with them and supporting their efforts to deliver a memorable and successful Championships in County Kildare.” Chloe McGrory, tourism manager at Into Kildare, added: “Hosting the Ploughing is a significant opportunity for Kildare, but the real value lies in what we encourage visitors to experience while they are here. We want people to stay an extra night, eat in our restaurants, visit our attractions and discover towns and villages they might otherwise have passed by.
“September is an important month for extending the tourism season. With a year to prepare, we have an opportunity to work together across the county and give visitors compelling reasons to make a longer trip of it. For some, this will be their first proper introduction to Kildare, and we want it to be the start of a return visit.” Into Kildare believes Rathangan’s role as host can also encourage greater exploration of the surrounding area, helping to spread visitor spending and raise awareness of the county’s wider tourism offering.
