Laois launches return of National Steam Rally 2025!

[RWHB1]

Laois launches return of National Steam Rally 2025!
This past weekend saw the official launch of the 61st National Steam
Rally in Laois.

Taking place on Saturday, July 5 at Stradbally Woodland Railway, the
event was attended by Minister Jennifer Murnane O’Connor, TD Seán
Fleming, Cllr. Paddy Buggy, and Cllr. Vivienne Phelan, along
with rally organisers and supporters.

Hosted by the Irish Steam Preservation Society, the launch drew local
media, supporters, and special guests to celebrate one of Ireland’s
longest-running heritage events.

In attendance were Minister Jennifer Murnane O’Connor, TD Seán
Fleming, Cllr. Paddy Buggy, and Cllr. Vivienne Phelan, all of whom
praised the rally for its unique cultural and historical significance
to County Laois and beyond.

Minister Murnane O’Connor commended the dedicated work of the
volunteers who keep the tradition of steam heritage alive.

“The National Steam Rally is a highlight event for me every year,
and it gives back so much to people. It’s all about family time, and
communities coming together. It means so much to Stradbally, and well
done to all the amazing people who volunteer tirelessly to make the
event possible," she said.

Now entering its 61st year, the National Steam Rally is set to return
on August 3rd & 4, 2025, promising two full days of vintage displays,
live entertainment, working heritage exhibitions, and family fun.

Some of the many highlights of this year’s event include:

● A special gathering of International Tractors

● A huge display of steam engines, vintage cars, tractors, trucks,
vintage machinery, displays, and demonstrations

● A stellar Country Music Lineup featuring Michael English, Robert
Mizzell, Declan Nerney, Louise Morrissey, The Ennis Brothers, and many
more

● Miniature steam engines, funfair, artisan food, trade stands, and
the ever-popular Steam & Vintage Parade, in Stradbally, at 7pm, on
August 2nd.

The rally takes place across the 40-acre grounds of the Cosby Estate
in Stradbally, Co. Laois – a unique venue complete with its own
working narrow-gauge railway, with beloved steam engine Róisín,
which will be running throughout the August Bank Holiday weekend
event.

Tickets are now available online at www.irishsteam.net.