Irish Native Rare Breeds Day & Coracle Showcase

Bunratty Castle and Folk Park and The Irish Native Rare Breeds Society (INRBS) are hosting a celebration of indigenous breeds of livestock in the Folk Park this Heritage Week. Join us for a unique opportunity to observe these extraordinary animals up close. Representatives from various breed societies will be on hand to provide detailed information about each breed's history, characteristics and significance.

Specialists in crafts involving wool, leather, and beeswax will be present, giving demonstrations of their techniques and skills while a wide array of finished products will also be on display.

Food tasting of products derived from the breeds present will also take place on the day and attendees will have the chance to savour a variety of delicacies made from these unique and rare breeds.

There will also be a series of enlightening lectures and talks where expert speakers will cover topics such as best practices for implementing breed conservation strategies, the pivotal role of genetics in conservation, and many more.

Tom Delaney of “Ould Crafty” will showcase a traditional willow coracle — a lightweight boat crafted from a wooden framework of split and interwoven willow rods. The vessel will be finished with a cowhide covering, specially prepared by Evi Bartelink. This unique collaboration brings together two ancient crafts, each rooted in traditions that span millennia. Once complete, the coracle will take pride of place on the lake at Craggaunowen Castle & Crannóg.