THE ‘second summer’ we experienced this week makes it hard to believe that the start of the autumn point-to-point season is just a fortnight away.

One of the undoubted highlights of the autumn season is the Dowth Hall races and Country Fair in Brú ba Bóinne, Co Meath on Sunday, October 27th.

Now in its fifth year, the Dowth Hall fixture celebrates the very best of country living and pursuits. It attracts thousands of visitors and there is plenty of off-track entertainment, including a bale maze, pumpkin patch, live music, pony rides, dog show, and all kinds of exhibits and demonstrations.

Add in the Boyne Valley Flavours Food Market, a whiskey bar, a horsebox serving champagne, and a shopping village showcasing all manner of local and international brands, and you get an idea of this event has thrived.

Everyone is welcome to bring their pet dog and enter it on the day in one of the wide-ranging dog show categories.

There is free admission for kids under 12 and there is no charge for any of the children’s entertainment, which includes bouncy castles, puppet shows, magicians and more.

It’s all hosted and sponsored by agri-technology company Devenish, whose executive chairman Owen Brennan said: “The event has grown year-on-year and we invite everyone to join us as we celebrate the very best of country life once again.”

With all these sideshows one could easily forget there are also six races to be run.

This really is a date for your diary.