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seasonal · Saturday 15 August 2026 · 10:00am 
Ardara Summer Show - Horse & Heritage Day
At Pearse Memorial Park · Pearse Memorial Park, Ardara, Co. Donegal
At Pearse Memorial Park · Pearse Memorial Park, Ardara, Co. Donegal
The Ardara Summer Show dedicates its second day entirely to horses, heritage and the kind of unhurried summer afternoon that southwest Donegal does well. Running since 1904, the show has long been one of the county’s most anticipated community occasions, and this Horse and Heritage Day was carved out specifically to give the equestrian section the space it deserves. It suits families with children, anyone with an interest in working horses and ponies, and visitors who want a genuine local event rather than a tourist set piece.
Horse, pony and riding classes take centre stage throughout the day at Pearse Memorial Park, giving spectators a close look at the standard of horsemanship in south Donegal. Classes run across the morning and into the afternoon, so there is time to watch several rounds without rushing. Alongside the horses, the Midwest Donegal Vintage Club brings an impressive display of vintage machinery and vehicles - tractors, engines and old farm equipment that prompt plenty of stories from anyone who grew up working the land here. Trade stands fill out the grounds, and the heritage theme runs through the whole day, connecting the equestrian tradition with the wider rural life of the area. Pony riding is available for children, making it a practical choice for families who want the kids actively involved rather than just watching.
Ardara sits on the N56 in southwest Donegal, roughly 40 kilometres south of Letterkenny and about 20 kilometres east of Killybegs. By road, it is well signposted from both Donegal town and the Wild Atlantic Way coastal route. There is no direct bus service into Ardara on a Saturday; most visitors arrive by car. Pearse Memorial Park is in the town centre, and parking in Ardara is generally straightforward for a town its size, with additional field parking common at show events - follow signs on the day.
Ardara is known across Ireland for its heritage tweed weaving and independent craft shops; the town is worth a walk before or after the show. The surrounding area takes in the Glencolmcille valley, the Slieve League cliffs and some of the finest coastal scenery on the island. There is more to see in Ardara and across Co. Donegal.
Heading to Pearse Memorial Park in Ardara? Donegal has plenty more to see. Read the Ardara area guide, find what else is on, and explore the towns and villages nearby.