Agricultural show

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The Grand Parade at the Sydney Royal Easter Show. Drawing over a million visitors annually it is one of the biggest annual events in the world.

An agricultural show is a public event showcasing the equipment, animals, sports and recreation associated with the occupations of agriculture and animal husbandry. The largest of these comprise a livestock show (a judged event or display in which breeding stock is exhibited) a trade fair and other competitions and entertainment. The terms agricultural show and livestock show are sometimes used synonymously. In addition, the work and practices of farmers, animal fanciers, cowboys and zoologists may also be on display.

A show is the Commonwealth term for an annual country fair.

1 Overview
2 Field days
3 List of Royal Shows
4 List of other major agricultural and livestock shows
5 See also

[edit] Overview

While popular in rural England, having origins in the local fair and beast market, the agricultural show has spread to other countries. In Australia the show is an important part of cultural life. Shows range from small events in small country towns lasting most of one day, through medium-sized events of two or three days, to the all-encompassing Royal Shows in state capitals, which may run for up to two weeks and combine many elements of an amusement park with those of an agricultural show. Although increasingly under pressure in the modern age due to finances and insurance concerns, all main towns have a Show Society and in some areas, several towns and villages in the same area all have an annual show. Larger shows usually include live entertainment and fireworks in the main arena.

A distinctive feature of Australian shows is the showbag, a themed carry bag of commercial goods.

Judging at an agricultural show

Cheddar cheese competition at the Mid-Somerset Show

Border Leicesters lined up for the judge in Sydney.

The winner of a blue ribbon is escorted on a lap of honour by a steward.

Sides shows and rides are a popular part of the Show.

Competitions that are commonly included in shows include:

Stud and commercial livestock
Cooking
Jams and preserves
Photography
Wood chopping
Sheaf tossing
Show jumping
Tent pegging
Wine
Rodeo
Arts and crafts
Horse show
Dog shows of various types, including sheepdog trials
cat show

[edit] Field days

A related concept to a show is the field day, which is more like a trade show on machinery, equipment and skills required for broadacre farming. Field days typically do not involve livestock, showbags or sideshows, but may include events such as ploughing competitions not usually associated with shows due to the larger space required. In some communities in northern England Field Days (or Club Days) have lost their agricultural character and have become celebrations of community.