This year’s Cork Summer Show is to have a bigger agricultural presence which includes a bigger farm machinery display zone compared to previous years, Gerard Murphy, Chairman of the Munster Agricultural Society has said.

The bigger zone will showcase the very latest and most technologically advanced agricultural equipment on the market, and there will be experts on hand to give demonstrations, he said.

Furthermore, Murphy said that the agri-trade stands for this year’s show, which takes place on June 18 and 19, are almost fully booked, such is the demand this year.

An extensive collection of more than 300 rare and vintage machines and cars will be on display on both days, providing visitors with unrivalled access to the best vintage collection in Munster.

The Roman Military Society of Ireland, Legion Ireland, will also provide a living history and re-enactment of a Roman Army in the first and second century’s AD, organisers said.

There will be a family-friendly mix of agriculture, food, music, home, garden, crafts, equipment and entertainment for all ages the show will take place from 9am to 6pm each day of the show at the Showgrounds in Curraheen, Co. Cork.

Building on the success of past years, the 2016 show will feature all the traditional summer show staples including the superb breeds of cattle, magnificent hunters, ponies and horses, sheep, goats, poultry, trade stands and machinery.

The 100ac site will be home to more than 1,700 animals including 700 horses, 120 sheep, 80 goats, 100 poultry and 400 cattle.

There will also be more than 300 dogs competing across 9 categories in the pet and pedigree dog shows. Still on the animal theme, this year’s event will see a significantly increased petting zoo for young children, with Rumley’s Pet Farm and Leahy’s Open Farm among others bringing their animals for children to enjoy.

Organisers said that this year will also feature the largest outdoor food festival in Cork and a craft beer tent to rival Oktoberfest.

“In its earliest days, the Cork Summer Show catered primarily for the agricultural community but over the years it has grown into a fun-filled day out for everyone attracting more than 50,000 people last year alone.

“I have no doubt that the 2016 Cork Summer Show is going to be our best year yet.

“We have put a lot of thought into the show this year – from food stalls, free cookery demonstrations, a new entertainment village for kids, extensive animal zoo and pet dog show, musical entertainment by great bands including The Frank & Walters, big screens for the Euro 2016 matches, craft beer tents for adults and lots of free bus shuttles, bus transfers and improved, larger parking in 2016.”

Free parking will be available for visitors at Curraheen Showgrounds on both days. For ticket prices and further information see the Cork Summer Show website.