The highly anticipated Durrow Scarecrow Festival returns this Sunday – for what will be the last year of the event in its current guise.
The event has been hugely popular since its inception in 2011 and is a massive community undertaking given that it spans nine days.
2024 marks the last time the festival will be across two weekends and one full week and organisers say that while the possibility of a festival next year has not been ruled out, it has yet to be decided.
This year’s festival promises an action-packed itinerary filled with fun, creativity, and community spirit from July 28 to August 5.
With a rich history of bringing joy to thousands of visitors every summer, the Durrow Scarecrow Festival has become a hallmark event in County Laois.
However, 2024 marks the last time the festival will span nine days.
Festival Highlights
Opening Day Extravaganza
The festival kicks off on Sunday, July 28 with a grand opening by Bernard O’Shea at 1:15pm, followed by live performances from the Durrow Pipe Band, the Kelly Brothers, Abbeyfolk, and The Finns.
Family Fun
Activities include Agri Aware Pet Farm, Hund Obedience Dog Training, puppet shows, live music on all nine days, laser tag, and the Funky Zone with two of Europe’s Largest Mega Slides, Scarecrow Maze, and so much more.
Workshops and Activities
Enjoy cookie and slime workshops, fairy door crafting, rhythm and drum sessions, Go Fly A Kite, Rush Workshops, and the Coder Dojo with VE headsets and coding challenges.
Special Events
Don’t miss the Talking Buddies – Speech, Language and Communications workshops on Wednesday, July 31.
There will be a Historical Walk and Talk on July 30; and a Photographic Exhibition by Annie Holland taking place in the ICA Hall, Durrow, from Thursday. August 1.
The exhibition is entitled “A forgotten generation – 100 years history of rural community and agricultural relics in County Laois.”
There will also be Duck Racing on Thursday, August 1; Family Strolls in Dunmore Country School, on Friday, August 2; and Grand Slam Wrestling on August 3.
Evening Entertainment
July 31 is Ladies Night at Castle Durrow which includes a fashion show, three-course meal, music, and exciting prizes.
Closing Ceremony
The prize-giving ceremony for the All-Ireland Scarecrow Championship takes place in the Scarecrow Village on Sunday, August 4, at 4:15pm.
The festival will conclude on Monday, August 5, with live performances, the Kids Talent Show, Irish Dancing Display, and lots more.
For more information, visit DurrowScarecrowFestival.com.
Admission:
- Scarecrow Village: Adults: €6, Children: €1
- Funky Zone Admission: Adults €4, Children €1
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