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Clifden Connemara Pony Show (Festival of the Connemara Pony)
Wednesday 20th August 2025
The highlight of the week is the Connemara Pony Show on Wednesday, this is a world famous event attracting visitors from all over the world. With a history dating back to 1924, there are over 400 ponies on show. It is the largest display of Connemara Ponies anywhere in the world.
Visitors are treated to the spectacle of seeing the ponies under the watchful eye of experienced judges and a win is always a source of great pride for the pony’s owner.
The Connemara Pony is a distinctive breed with excellent qualities: strong, intelligent and very hard working, perfect for the wild unforgiving landscape of Connemara, the Galway region that gave them their name. Their genial disposition makes them excellent pets while their powerful build makes them good jumpers and great show ponies.
In addition to the pony competitions, the festival also features a variety of non-pony activities, such as a dog show, an Irish dancing exhibition, and domestic arts and craft stalls with regional competitions for baked goods, jams, and more. 2025 marks the 100th Connemara Pony Show — a truly historic milestone. A full show programme will take place over six days, featuring all the traditional show elements alongside exciting new additions to celebrate the centenary.
Below is a breakdown of the events scheduled for Wednesday: (For up-to-date information see the Event Website.)
Wednesday – 20th August
The Showgrounds
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The Traditional In-Hand Classes” Pony Competitions – From 8:00 am
The traditional and day-long series of Connemara ponies is judged on conformation, breed characteristics and overall presentation while led by a handler. - Official Show Opening by Nina Carberry MEP
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Domestic Arts, Crafts & Produce Show
Celebrate local creativity with home produce, handcrafted items, and garden produce competitions. Pre-entry only – All entries must be on display no later than 10:15 am. -
The Dog Show – 2:00 pm
The always popular competition for various breeds of dogs. Entries are welcome on the day starting at 12:00 pm, the competition commences at 2:00 pm. -
Best & Most Appropriately Dressed Competitions – 1:00 pm
Dress to impress! Fabulous prizes await those who stand out for elegance, creativity, and flair. Register at the Marquee between 12:30 pm and 1:00 pm. Judging from 1:00 pm. -
Irish Dancing Competition – 2:00 pm
Enjoy the tradition of local Irish dancers as they perform and compete. Entries accepted on the day. -
The All-New Show Marquee
Enjoy some food & beverages in the all-new Show Marquee! Also, be sure to visit our stand here at the marquee for the limited-edition 100th Show and assorted merchandise.
Clifden Town & Market Square
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Street Traders & Family Fun! – All Day
See the stalls with crafts, local produce, and artisanal delights along with fabulous face-painting for kids (and kids at heart!)
Clifden Station House Hotel
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The Showdown – 8:00 pm
Get together for music, drinks, and a relaxed evening.
Event Details
Location
Clifden Connemara Pony Show (Festival of the Connemara Pony)
This event listing is compiled for informational purposes only and is correct at time of publication. All event information may be subject to change by the organisers and you are advised to contact the organisers directly for the most up to date information before you travel. ConnemaraIreland.com cannot be held responsible for any alterations to the listed information.