Emerald Expo 2025

The much-anticipated Emerald Expo is set to return for its 13th edition at the Virginia Show Centre in Co. Cavan on Saturday, April 26.

The prestigious all-dairy-breeds cattle show marks the very first event of the Irish show season, offering exhibitors and attendees an exciting start to 2025.

With a substantial prize fund and a lineup of top-quality cattle, the event promises to be a highlight for breeders and industry professionals alike.

A show of prestige and excellence

The Emerald Expo is proudly sponsored by FBD Insurance, with additional support from the Irish Holstein Friesian Association (IHFA), the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine (DAFM), and Tirlán.

With seven championship classes, the competition is highly competitive, and breeders across Ireland, including Northern Ireland, will be competing for top honours.

One of the standout events of the show is the Emerald Expo youngstock confined class, open exclusively to breeders from IHFA club areas, including Breffni Oriel, North Eastern, West Midlands, and Donegal.

Meanwhile, all eyes will be on the Emerald Expo senior championship, where the best of the best will battle it out to take home the prestigious Seamus Kelly memorial perpetual trophy.

The Virginia Show Centre offers excellent facilities, ensuring that exhibitors, competitors, and visitors receive a warm welcome.

Its convenient location makes it easily accessible for everyone, adding to the event’s appeal to a broad range of participants.

Esteemed judge – Andrew Cope

A key highlight of this year’s event is the appointment of Andrew Cope as the judge for the 2025 Emerald Expo Show.

Hailing from the renowned Huddlesford Herd in Staffordshire, Andrew is a third-generation farmer with a deep-rooted passion for the Holstein breed.

His family has achieved remarkable success in the show ring, securing supreme champion titles three times at both the Royal Show at Stoneleigh and the European Dairy Event.

Andrew’s judging credentials are impeccable. A respected member of the UK Judges Panel, the European Judges Panel, and the Brown Swiss UK Panel, he has judged major events across Spain, Denmark, Hungary, Ireland, and the UK.

His keen eye for quality and extensive experience make him the perfect candidate to oversee the competition at this year’s Emerald Expo.

Emerald Expo show director, Richard Whelan has highlighted the continued growth and success of the event, attributing it to the commitment of sponsors, exhibitors, and the entire show community.

He stated: “On behalf of the organising committee, I especially thank FBD as title sponsor and also extend my gratitude to the IHFA, the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine, and all class sponsors.

“As the first show of the year, Emerald Expo is a much-anticipated event, offering breeders an opportunity to showcase their cattle and kick-start the 2025 season.

“We warmly invite Holstein all-Ireland breeders to participate; the prize schedule of classes and entry forms are available to access with a closing date of Friday, March 28,” he added.

Emerald Expo elite online sale returns

For the second consecutive year, the Emerald Expo elite online sale will take place over the show weekend, providing breeders with another platform to market their top-quality cattle.

This sale is facilitated by Denis Barrett Auctions, ensuring a smooth and professional experience for buyers and sellers alike.

A day for networking, learning, and celebration

More than just a competition, the Emerald Expo is a social and educational gathering for dairy breeders and industry professionals.

Visitors can explore the latest agri products and services, making it a prime opportunity for networking and business development.

Admission is free on show day, and everyone is welcome to attend. Mark your calendars for Saturday, April 26, and don’t miss out on the premier dairy cattle show of the season.