The National Ploughing Championships gets underway today for the first time since 2019, after the annual event was cancelled due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
Event organisers are urging drivers to turn off their sat-navs, and to see the Garda Traffic Plan online for the best route.
Motorists are being advised to leave plenty of time to get there and to expect significant traffic delays.
300,000 are expected to visit the event in Ratheniska in Co. Laois which runs from today until Thursday.
It's estimated that 70,000 cups of tea will be drunk, and a quarter pounder will be eaten every second over the three-day event.
The Irish Daily Star also reports 300 bales of straw, 100 bales of hay, and seven tonnes of food will be eaten by livestock.
NPA Managing Director Anna May McHugh says “The Championships not only provides a national stage for showcasing all things that are great about Ireland but also brings together people from all sectors of Irish society both rural and urban, to enjoy three days immersed in country living.
All roads lead to the #Ploughing2022! Turn off your SatNav and follow the Traffic Plan, directional signage, and instruction of Garda/stewards. Drive safe and see you at 9am. pic.twitter.com/jJM2AI6n7x
— National Ploughing (@NPAIE) September 20, 2022
Ireland is also hosting the 67th World Ploughing Contest this year, after it was rescheduled and relocated due to the war in Ukraine.
This year's World Ploughing Contest was due to be held in St Petersburg in Russia in August.
27 countries will take part, with two competitors from each country in the competition travelling from as far away as New Zealand, Canada and Australia. The world contest is spread over two days starting tomorrow.
