Countdown is on to Laois Live Well Expo 

MORE than 2,000 people are expected to attend the annual Live Well Expo in Portlaoise on Wednesday 8 April, a hugely popular event that showcases a wide range of supports for older people across the county.

As she looks forward to her 92nd birthday in May, legendary Laois Age Friendly Ambassador Anna May McHugh was among those celebrating the official launch of the 2026 Expo in County Hall on 25 March.

Encouraging people to attend the free event, the National Ploughing Association managing director said: “It’s a fantastic event, with so many interesting and informative exhibitors that are all relevant to empowering older people in Laois.

“I really think that, if you are an older person, you need to go to this Expo ‘for you’. You won’t be sorry and you will definitely leave with lots of brochures about products and services that can help improve your quality of life. I’m going, see you there!” 

With a new venue at the Midlands Park Hotel, the fourth annual Expo will run from 11am to 5pm with more than 90 exhibitors and an expanded programme that will include music and movement throughout the day, a sensory room, health checks and panel talks covering topics such as financial advice, brain health, community safety and more.

The aim is not only to inform but also to inspire, giving people practical tools to support their wellbeing long after the Expo ends.

Highlighting the importance of the event, which brought over 2,000 people to its previous venue at Portlaoise College last year, Laois Co Council chief executive Michael Rainey said: “By working together as a community, we are enabling people of all ages to make informed choices about their health and wellbeing.” 

The Expo was launched by Age Friendly Laois and Healthy Ireland Laois, with a mission to empower people of all ages to prioritise their health, wellbeing and social connection, while showcasing the wide range of supports available across the county.

The county council’s Age Friendly Programme manager Danielle Keane said the programme aims to provide information, support and connection for older people and the Live Well Expo brings all of this together in one place.

Healthy Laois Coordinator Fiona Skehan observed: “Many people will not be aware of the services that are available in the county. The Expo provides all the information, supports, opportunities and services in one place, accessible to all for a healthier future.” 

The Expo is built on a deep understanding that people thrive when they feel supported, connected and informed. Throughout the day, people will have opportunities to meet service providers in person, ask questions and receive one-to-one guidance, discover new hobbies and social groups, sample activities and workshops, learn about community transport, safety, home supports and more.

The Expo also provides an important networking platform for local organisations, strengthening collaboration and encouraging partnership across the county.