Balmoral Show: Northern Ireland’s Biggest Agricultural Event

Updated On: April 19, 2024 by   Ciaran Connolly

We took a trip to the brilliant Balmoral show located in Balmoral Park, Lisburn.

We captured all the exciting activities and the unmissable atmosphere the show had to offer. Make sure you check out our video above, as we give you a glimpse into the Balmoral Show experience; one of the best agricultural events in Northern Ireland.

What is the Balmoral Show?

The Balmoral show is an annual four-day family event where people can explore the fantastic agricultural in Northern Ireland. In the past, the event has seen over 100,000 people attending, offering something for all ages. From fun activities for children, an amazing variety of food and drink stalls, and a shoppers paradise with over 650 trading stands in the Balmoral grounds.

Each day of the show also includes unique events from showing jumping, a children’s farm, fun fair and even exciting motorcycle events. The main arena is where much of must-see attractions take place.

 

 

 

History of the Balmoral Show

The history of the Balmoral Show is filled with an incredible tradition and inspiration that first dates back to 1855 when the first show took place in the Belfast Corporation Markets on the banks of River Lagan. Due to its quick popularity, it outgrew this location and from 1896 to 2012, the Balmoral Show was held in the 32-acre Balmoral site.

The show again moved in late 2012 to accommodate the growing interest both from traders and the public. Eventually, the show organisers purchased land and created a new venue at the 65-acre Balmoral Park in Lisburn. The opening at the new venue was a big success and in 2017 it saw its biggest attendance of 115,000 people at the show.

150 Years Celebration

In 2018, the show celebrated an amazing 150 years of the event taking place in Northern Ireland. To celebrate this achievemnt they had a special anniversary marquee that hosted a variety of exhibitions of photographs, artefacts, souvenirs showcasing 150 years of agriculture and farming in Northern Ireland.

The Balmoral show increased in size, diversity, with more attractions and things to see and do for this landmark anniversary year. Very few events in Northern Ireland have been around for this long, that still excites people, who look forward to the show each year. It’s a remarkable achievement.

It’s definitely one of the unmissable events in Northern Ireland if you are visiting in May time. Hopefully, the Balmoral show, a great showcasing of Irish Hospitality will be around for another incredible 150 Years.

Share with us your experiences if you have attended this year’s Balmoral Show and tell us what you enjoyed the most. It would be also interesting to hear your stories regarding the show during the previous years.

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