European and Connacht Sheep Shearing AND WOOLHANDLING Championships

SHEARFEST 2025 welcomes the European and Connacht Sheep Shearing & Woolhandling Championships to Mountbellew, Co. Galway, for an unforgettable weekend of skill, excitement, and family fun! The events will take place on Friday 30th May to Sunday 1st June over the June bank holiday weekend.

This year, we’re turning up the energy with three electrifying Martbeat concerts, featuring live music that will have everyone dancing! But that’s not all - there’s so much more fun to be had for all the family, with activities, entertainment, and attractions that will make SHEARFEST 2025 a weekend to remember.

Don’t miss out on the thrilling competitions, fantastic music, and endless enjoyment for all ages - mark your calendars now!

Free onsite parking. Limited Campervan spaces available on request at (087)2545904 or (085)8389777.

European and Connacht Sheep Shearing & Woolhandling Championships

The championships will gather the elite of international sheep shearers and woolhandlers for what promises to be an enthralling and highly competitive weekend of action. Often referred to as the “Olympics of sheep shearing,” competitors from various nations will proudly represent their heritage and showcase their shearing and woolhandling expertise. Amidst the cheers of a passionate audience, they'll demonstrate their skills, contributing to the vibrant celebration of sheep farming and wool production on a global scale.

MartBeat - Dance The Night Away!

Get ready for an unforgettable experience as MARTBEAT presents two open-air concerts showcasing some of Ireland's top musical talents at the Mart Grounds in Mountbellew, Co. Galway! Mark your calendars for Friday May 30th, Saturday May 31st and Sunday June 1st during the June bank holiday weekend. Prepare to be blown away by performances from the likes of Mike Denver, George Murphy and the Rising Sons, Michael English, Eleanor Shanley, Johnny Brady, All Folk'd Up, Chris Kelly and Máirín Fahy. Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity to enjoy live music in a stunning outdoor setting!

Entertainment For All The Family!

Join us for three exciting days of family fun! Our event features a variety of attractions including sheepdog demonstrations, Irish dancing, a craft village, trade stands, the Queen of the Wool competition, pony rides, food trucks, alpaca walks, bouncy castles, children's amusements, the Irish Wool Experience, fashion, an animal petting zoo, face painting, an interactive magic show, cookery demonstrations, and pedigree & rare sheep exhibits. There's something for everyone to enjoy, so come on out and make some memories with us!