One of Northern Ireland’s biggest annual events is back this week as the iconic Balmoral Show 2026 returns to Balmoral Park for four packed days celebrating farming, food, family entertainment and local businesses.
Taking place at the Eikon Exhibition Centre near Lisburn, this year’s show marks the 157th edition of the hugely popular event, which continues to attract tens of thousands of visitors from across Northern Ireland and beyond.
From livestock competitions and showjumping to local produce, shopping and adrenaline-fuelled entertainment, here’s a full guide to what visitors can expect at the 2026 Balmoral Show.
What’s Happening At This Year’s Show?
The 2026 event will feature more than 3,500 animals across the four days, with cattle, sheep, pigs and horses all taking centre stage in the various competitions and displays.
While poultry competitions will once again not take place due to ongoing bird flu restrictions, organisers have confirmed there will still be a smaller bird display from a single flock for visitors to enjoy. It marks the fourth time in the last five years that competitive poultry classes have been unable to proceed.
Alongside the agricultural showcases, visitors can expect:
- International showjumping events
- Sheep shearing demonstrations
- Hundreds of local trade stands
- A wide selection of food vendors and Northern Irish produce
- Family entertainment and interactive attractions
One of the biggest crowd favourites returning this year is the Bolddog FMX Team, with their freestyle motocross stunt performances taking place twice daily throughout the event.
A Big Digital Change For 2026
In a significant update for this year’s show, organisers have moved away from printed maps and timetable leaflets.
Instead, visitors are being encouraged to use the new official Balmoral Show app, which will provide information on:
- Competition schedules
- Trade stand locations
- Facilities and amenities
- Event timings and updates
Dates, Opening Times & Location
The show takes place at Eikon Exhibition Centre at Balmoral Park and runs from Wednesday 13 May until Saturday 16 May.
Opening times are:
- Wednesday to Friday: 9:30am – 7:00pm
- Saturday: 9:30am – 6:00pm
Travel & Parking Information
Visitors are being encouraged to make use of public transport where possible due to expected traffic volumes around the venue.
Travelling By Train
The closest rail stop is Lisburn Railway Station, located less than 15 minutes from the showgrounds.
A complimentary shuttle bus service will operate regularly between the station and Balmoral Park throughout the event.
The first shuttle departs at 9:00am each morning, with return services continuing until closing time. Organisers are advising visitors to allow extra time for transfers during busy periods.
Travelling By Car
Drivers travelling from different parts of Northern Ireland are advised to follow event signage from major routes including the M1 and A1.
On-site parking is available at a cost of £10 per vehicle per day, payable in cash on arrival.
Organisers have also warned that delays and queues are likely during peak arrival and departure times.
It’s also important to note that the Balmoral Show has a strict no-dogs policy, except for assistance dogs or animals involved in official displays.
Ticket Information
Tickets for the 2026 Balmoral Show must be purchased online in advance, as there will be no ticket sales available at the gate.
Children under five can attend free of charge, while dedicated booking options are available for school and hospital groups.
Early bird pricing remains available until Tuesday evening before the event begins.
BBC Radio Ulster Coverage
BBC Radio Ulster will once again be broadcasting live from the event, with Your Place and Mine featuring special coverage from the showgrounds.
Presenter Eve Blair, alongside the Your Farm and Mine podcast team, will bring listeners behind-the-scenes stories, interviews and highlights from across the four-day event.
The 2026 Balmoral Show promises another huge celebration of Northern Ireland’s farming community, food scene and rural life — with organisers expecting another strong turnout for one of the country’s best-loved events.
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