Hollywood Fair

Hollywood Fair is a remarkable success story attributed to the work of a dedicated committee together with landowner cooperation, sponsors, and community spirit. The theme of the fair is pre 1950’s rural heritage and proven to have something of interest for all. The fair is dependent on the support of Wicklow Co. Co., Gardaí, local businesses and surrounding villages and communities. The biggest challenge facing the committee each year is engaging help.  The fair runs from Wednesday to Sunday with Sunday being the ‘Fair Day’  

Hollywood Fair started out as a means of raising funds for Baltinglass hospital and other local charities.   A small group ran the fair each year but its popularity soon took over!   Following a number of successful years and its growth in popularity, the committee was advised to put the concept on a more formal footing and a limited company was set up. This ensured that all the necessary legalities were put in place. 

Each year the Hollywood Fair presents 11 local charities with cheques in the region of €2,500 and to date; over €200,000 has been raised. This is a phenomenal story of how community spirit and foresight can produce an event that attracts visitors from all over Ireland and beyond. 

Those attending the fair are encouraged to dress in pre 1950s attire.  This, in itself is a sight to behold.  Last year the Guinness World Record for the ‘Most Flat Caps Worn at a Single Event’ was broken.    There are displays of working vintage machinery and cars. There is a sheep show along with a display of vintage shearing.  Farriers and blacksmiths can be seen shoeing horses. While other crafts such as basket weaving, butter making and bread making are on display.  Old skills such as sheep dog trials and roof thatching, stone cutting and wood turning are displayed in a typical pre 1950’s setting.  

The weekend is steeped in culture and nostalgia with events such as; a Latin mass, set dancing, ceol agus cáinte, artistic & photographic exhibitions and sessions in the local pubs. Old forgotten games and pastimes such as horseshoe throwing, fortune telling, matchmaking, pitch & toss and the duck race are resurrected for the weekend – something for everyone. All who attend embrace the spirit of the event and the pre 1950’s theme.

Make a date this August 16^th – 20^th.   Tell your friends and family.  Further details can be found at www.thehollywoodfair.com.