What can I see at the 2026 Balmoral Show?
The Balmoral Show returns on Wednesday at Balmoral Park outside Lisburn, marking its 157th edition. Organised by the Royal Ulster Agricultural Society, the event features thousands of animals and 500 trade stands, representing months of preparation.
Over four days, visitors can enjoy livestock competitions, sample premium food and Northern Irish produce, or simply spend quality time with family.
More than 3,500 animals will be present throughout the show. Although poultry competitions are cancelled this year due to bird flu restrictions, there will be numerous contests involving cattle, sheep, pigs, horses, as well as guinea pigs and rabbits.
Organisers note that while competitive poultry classes are not proceeding, a small display of birds from a single flock will be featured. This marks the fourth cancellation of poultry classes in five years.
The event will also host international showjumping competitions, sheep shearing demonstrations, and a variety of catering vendors.
Visitors can witness the thrilling freestyle motocross performances by the Bolddog FMX team, scheduled twice daily throughout the event.
A significant change this year is the absence of printed maps and timetables. Instead, all information regarding classes, trade stands, and amenities will be accessible via the new Balmoral Show app.
Where and when is the 2026 Balmoral Show?
The Balmoral Show is held at the Eikon Exhibition Centre located at Lisburn's Balmoral Park.
The event spans four days, from Wednesday 13 May to Saturday 16 May, opening daily at 09:30 BST.
Closing times are 19:00 on Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday, with Saturday concluding at 18:00.
How can I get to the 2026 Balmoral Show?
Attendees are encouraged to use public transport to reach the venue.
The nearest train station is Lisburn, situated less than 15 minutes from the showgrounds. A free shuttle service operates between the station and the event site, running regularly throughout each day.
The first shuttle departs from Lisburn station at 09:00 each morning, with the final return service leaving the showgrounds at closing time.
Passengers are advised to allocate 30 to 45 minutes for transfer time when returning from the show.
On-site car parking is available at a cost of £10 per vehicle per day, payable in cash upon arrival.
Organisers have cautioned that queues are expected during peak arrival and departure times.
The Balmoral Show enforces a strict no dogs policy, except for those participating in displays or verified assistance dogs.
How do I get a Balmoral Show ticket?
Tickets must be purchased online in advance; no sales will be conducted at the gate.
Bookings are available for school and hospital groups, and children under five years of age are admitted free of charge.
Early bird ticket prices are offered until Tuesday at 22:00.
Will BBC Radio Ulster be at the Balmoral Show?
BBC Radio Ulster's programme Your Place and Mine will host a special outside broadcast from the Balmoral Show.
Presenter Eve Blair, along with the Your Farm and Mine podcast team, will provide behind-the-scenes coverage, sharing the sights, sounds, and stories from the event.
