Farmfest '08, incorporating Bioenergy '08

A Changing Countryside Teagasc, Athenry, County Galway, Friday, 20th June 2008, 9:30am - 6:30pm

For you and your family

Farmfest & bioenergy '08 is the major national Teagasc event of the year. It is an event for all farm families, rural dwellers and anyone with an interest in agriculture and food. The event will display the very broad spectrum of Teagasc services and will highlight education and training, together with the opportunities available to farmers and rural dwellers. Teagasc invites you and your family to join us at our biggest and most all-inclusive exhibit of the year as we discuss 'A Changing Countryside'.

Make it a day out for you and your family. Farmfest '08 is very much a family event hosting a wide range of organisations and exhibits of interest to all the family. Younger visitors to Farmfest ’08 have pride of place with their own specially dedicated pink marquee. The area will feature a mobile farm, a wool spinner, sheep shearer and much more. 'Arnie' the pet pig will make a special guest appearance.

Meet the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food

The Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food will mount a major exhibit at Farmfest ’08. Farmers will have the opportunity to discuss with Department staff queries relating to the Single Farm Payment, REPS, Farm Waste Management Scheme, Suckler Cow Welfare Scheme, or any other issues. The exhibit will have full access to individual detail to facilitate dealing with queries on the spot.

Entertainment

FarmFest & Bioenergy '08 on 20th June will bring to Athenry exciting non-stop entertainment, featuring street entertainers ARCANA; Irish Traditional Art-forms; and Jazz and Brass displays. Complementing the spectacular street theatrics of ARCANA, FarmFest's main stage will feature a showcase of Traditional Irish Art-forms. Galway-based traditional groups and artists will feature, including Arcady; Mórga; Marcus Hernon, Johnny Connolly & Don Stiffe; Alec Finn & Kathleen Loughnane; Noel Hill, Tony Linnane, Joe Seosamh O Neachtain; and performances from Connemara Oireachtas Champions in Sean-Nós Singing and Dancing, Mairead Ni Fhlatharta and Patrick & Gerard Devane from Connemara. FarmFest will also feature performances from the Galway Gypsy Jazz Quartet and the Army Command Brass Band.

We look forward to seeing you in Athenry on 20th June.