Discover CAFRE during Open Farm Weekend 2025 at Greenmount Campus in Antrim

Colman Byrne and Judith McCord from Greenmount Campus are preparing to welcome visitors during Bank of Ireland Open Farm Weekend.

Families, students, and curious visitors alike are invited to explore the world of modern farming during the Bank of Ireland Open Farm Weekend 2025, as Greenmount Campus, part of the College of Agriculture, Food and Rural Enterprise (CAFRE), opens its gates for two exciting days of free fun and education.

Taking place on Saturday 14 and Sunday 15 June 2025, from 11:00am to 4:00pm, the event offers a rare chance to experience hands-on farming activities and learn how food is produced in Northern Ireland.

“Whether you’re from a farming background or simply curious about food production, this event offers a unique opportunity to understand how our food is produced and appreciate the value of the local supply chain,” organisers said.

Activities for all ages

The action-packed weekend at Greenmount Campus, Antrim, promises a wide range of interactive and family-friendly attractions. Visitors can:

• Watch live sheep shearing demonstrations

• Test their driving skills on tractor simulators

• Milk ‘Clover’ the cow

• Engage with agriculture and horticulture exhibits

• Enjoy floristry demonstrations

• Explore the beautiful Walled Garden and enjoy children’s activities

• View our machinery display

• Visit the food to fork display, including ice-cream samples

• View the dairy centre and hear from dairy advisers

• View sheep & cattle

• Visit the CAFRE information stand

• Take a self-guided tour of Nature Trail

In addition to these attractions, there will be plant sales, and representatives from Ulster Beekeepers Association and RSPB will be on hand to educate visitors about conservation and biodiversity.

Refreshments will be available for purchase on-site, but families are also welcome to bring their own picnic. Please note that only assistance dogs on a lead are permitted at the venue.

Learn about CAFRE courses

Sharon Woods, Laura Browne and Gerard Nicholl from CAFRE Enniskillen Campus are preparing to welcome visitors during Bank of Ireland Open Farm Weekend.

For those interested in furthering their education or exploring a career in agriculture, horticulture, animal care, or rural enterprise, CAFRE staff will be available throughout the weekend to discuss course options and career pathways.

Supported by industry leaders

The Bank of Ireland Open Farm Weekend is a free initiative led by the Ulster Farmers’ Union, with support from title sponsor Bank of Ireland, platinum sponsor NFU Mutual, and Asda as schools’ day sponsor. Additional support comes from the Livestock and Meat Commission NI, Pilgrim’s Europe, Thompson’s, and the Irish Farmers’ Journal.

To find out more about Greenmount Campus or other participating farms across Northern Ireland, visit the official website at www.openfarmweekend.com.