The much-anticipated Emerald Expo is set to return for its 14th edition at the Virginia Show Centre in Co. Cavan on Saturday, April 25.

This prestigious all-dairy breeds cattle show marks the very first event of the Irish show season, offering exhibitors and attendees an exciting start to 2026.

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

A show of quality 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, and Tirlan.

With seven Championship classes, the expo is highly competitive, and breeders across Ireland will be competing for top honours.

One of the highlight 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.

The Young Members Showmanship League classes promises to be a highlight component of the show.

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.

The Emerald Expo Hall Of Fame award will also be announced and presented to a most worthy individual.

Esteemed judge - David Wright

A key highlight of this year’s event is the appointment of David Wright as the judge for the 2026 Emerald Expo Show.

David hails from the Berryholme Herd on the edge of the Lake District in north-west England at Berryholme Farm, where he farms together with his wife Naomi and their children Heath and Skylar. 

One the herd's highlights is winning the Holstein UK Premier herd competition in 2019.

David and family have been fortunate enough to have enjoyed show success too, including having champion at the UK National Holstein Show on three occasions, with Holmland Storm Flo (2003), Berryholme Shottle Flo (2010), Berryholme Infloence Linda 3 (2015).

More recently, they had Reserve Grand at UK Dairy Expo 2025 and UK Dairy Day with Berryholme Chief Rose. 

David has also judged numerous shows, including Holsteins at the Great Yorkshire Show, UK and the All Britain calf show. 

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

Importance of the Emerald Expo

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

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

"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 27."

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 25, and don’t miss out on the premier dairy cattle show of the season.