Mayo bakers invited to enter national Brown Bread Competition

Bakers across Mayo are being encouraged to showcase their skills as the National Brown Bread Baking Competition returns for 2026 — with a new junior category added for the first time.

The popular competition, sponsored by Euronics Ireland in association with the National Ploughing Association (NPA) and the Irish Countrywomen’s Association (ICA), will culminate at the National Ploughing Championships in Screggan, Tullamore, Co. Offaly this September.

This year’s competition will see 16 finalists — eight junior and eight senior — compete live, with winners crowned on September 17th.

A Mayo baker took top honours last year, adding extra excitement locally as entries open once again.

The senior winner will receive a €5,000 cash prize along with a NEFF Slide&Hide® oven worth over €2,000, while the junior champion will take home a €1,500 Euronics voucher, with an additional €1,500 awarded to their school.

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NPA Managing Director Anna May McHugh said the competition continues to grow in popularity and importance.

“The National Brown Bread Baking Competition has been a much-loved part of the Ploughing Championships for generations,” she said. “We are especially delighted to see the return of the junior category, helping to carry on Ireland’s proud baking tradition.”

Local entries in Mayo will be accepted on Friday, August 7th, at Keans in Claremorris and at Broderick Electrical in Westport. Entries must be submitted between 9am and 11am, with no late submissions accepted.

Participants are asked to bake their bread at home and submit it for judging, with finalists announced shortly afterwards and invited to compete at the national finals.

CEO of Euronics Ireland Darragh Lynch said the competition celebrates a tradition that remains central to Irish homes.

“Brown bread is baked in kitchens right across Ireland every day, and we’re excited to discover some of the country’s best recipes — including from the next generation of bakers,” he said.

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Last year’s winner, Maureen Igoe from Bonniconlon, encouraged others to take part.

“I’ve been baking for over 50 years but never expected to win,” she said. “It was a wonderful experience, and I’d encourage anyone who enjoys baking to enter.”

Organisers say the addition of the junior competition aims to inspire young people aged 12–18 to get involved and help preserve one of Ireland’s most cherished culinary traditions.