The countdown is officially on for the 61st National Steam Rally, following a successful launch event held at Stradbally Woodland Railway last weekend.
Hosted by the Irish Steam Preservation Society, the launch celebrated one of Ireland’s longest-running heritage events.
In attendance were Minister Jennifer Murnane O’Connor, TD Seán Fleming, Cllr Paddy Buggy, and Cllr Vivienne Phelan, all of whom praised the rally for its unique cultural and historical significance to County Laois and beyond.
Minister Murnane O’Connor commended the dedicated work of the volunteers who keep the tradition of steam heritage alive:
“The National Steam Rally is a highlight event for me every year, and it gives back so much to people. It’s all about family time, and communities coming together. It means so much to Stradbally, and well done to all the amazing people who volunteer tirelessly to make the event possible.”
Now entering its 61st year, the National Steam Rally is set to return on August 3 and 4, promising two full days of vintage displays, live entertainment, working heritage exhibitions, and family fun.
Some of the many highlights of this year’s event include:
- A special gathering of International Tractors
- A huge display of steam engines, vintage cars, tractors, trucks, vintage machinery, displays, and demonstrations
- A stellar Country Music Lineup featuring Michael English, Robert Mizzell, Declan Nerney, Louise Morrissey, The Ennis Brothers, and many more
- Miniature steam engines, funfair, artisan food, trade stands, and the ever-popular Steam & Vintage Parade, in Stradbally, at 7pm, on August 2nd.
The rally takes place across the 40-acre grounds of the Cosby Estate in Stradbally – a unique venue complete with its own working narrow-gauge railway, with beloved steam engine Róisín, which will be running throughout the August Bank Holiday weekend event.
Tickets are now available online at www.irishsteam.net.
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