North Mayo village prepares to host annual harvest fair
Three days of music, dancing, tradition and community fun.
Lahardane is preparing for a vibrant celebration of rural life and local spirit as the much-loved "Lahardane Harvest Fair" returns from Thursday, August 14 to Saturday, August 16.
With a wide range of attractions, entertainment and community events, this year’s fair is set to be one of the biggest and best yet.
Organisers have promised a programme full of fun for all ages, including new features, crowd favourites, and a strong focus on local talent and tradition.
Thursday, August 14 – Let the Dancing Begin!
The festivities get underway with a Social Dancing Night in the Community Centre, featuring the ever-popular Carmel McLoughlin and a special guest performer.
With spot prizes and a lively dance competition, it’s the perfect opening to what promises to be a memorable weekend.
Friday, August 15 – Harvest Fair Day
The main event takes place on Friday, beginning from 12 noon in the field opposite Leonard’s Pub, right in the heart of Lahardane.
Among the headline attractions are:
The famous Bonniconlon Blacknose Sheep, with live working demonstrations by the Newport Shepherds
Little Top circus-style performances, bouncy castles, a dog show, and more
The ever-popular Wheel of Fortune, Hang Tough, and the quirky Wine to Water challenge
Free face painting, children’s competitions, and raffle prizes, including vouchers for local restaurants, hotels, and salons
A welcoming Tea Tent serving sweet treats and a chance to catch up with neighbours
Live performances from local stars Kathlyn and Maeve, plus dynamic routines by the Moffatt School of Dancing
The day rounds off with the traditional Harvest Auction, a highlight for many and always good for bargains and laughs. Once the field events conclude, the celebrations spill into the village’s pubs for a night of music and craic.
Saturday, August 16 – The Trader’s Race
The fair wraps up in style on Saturday evening with the much-anticipated Trader’s Race, starting at 7 p.m. Expect local characters, friendly competition and plenty of banter to bring the curtain down on another great fair weekend.
Live Music Around the Village
Leonard’s Pub
August 14: Us3 – The Paddens
August 15: Oisín O’Donnell, Doppler and Paddy Garvin
August 16: Shane Ruane
Murphy’s Bar
August 15: Seán Loughran, Hannah and Oisín
August 16: Paddy Garvin
August 17: Kyle Hampson
Supporting Lahardane National School
Proceeds from this year’s fair will go directly to Lahardane National School, helping to fund essential upgrades such as playground surfacing, educational trips, and library improvements. Organisers expressed gratitude to the local and national businesses whose generous support makes the fair possible.
For enquiries, contact Shona on 086 3372161.
Event details and updates: www.lahardanefair.ie