100 days until Royal Show 2026!
“The Show will proceed in 2026 irrespective of the outcome of the livestock decision, with a strong programme already confirmed. ”
The Royal Agricultural Society of Natal confirms that the 2026 Royal Agricultural Show will take place in exactly 100 days’ time, from 29 May to 3 June 2026 at its new home, Tweedie Hall in Howick, marking a significant milestone as the Society celebrates its 175th anniversary.
In light of the ongoing Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) outbreak affecting parts of the livestock sector, the Society’s Executive Committee will meet at the end of February to make a final determination regarding the inclusion of cloven-hoofed animals at this year’s Show. A formal update will be communicated immediately thereafter.
“The Royal Agricultural Society stands alongside our farmers and the wider agricultural community during this challenging time,” said Wayne Muller, General Manager of the Society. “Our priority is to ensure that the 2026 Royal Show proceeds responsibly, while continuing to showcase the innovation, resilience and future of agriculture.”
The Show will proceed in 2026 irrespective of the outcome of the livestock decision, with a strong programme already confirmed.
The KZN Youth Show, honey and apiculture exhibitors, poultry, and commercial and industrial agriculture participants have committed to taking part. The KZN Youth Show has already adapted its plans where necessary, and will continue to prioritise youth development, education and engagement in agriculture.
The 2026 Royal Agricultural Show will introduce the Royal Pavilion, a curated flagship exhibition space celebrating premium, value-added agricultural products and downstream innovation. The Pavilion will serve as a visual centrepiece of this landmark anniversary Show, reflecting both the Society’s heritage and its forward-looking vision.
Aligned with the 2026 theme — Innovation in Agriculture: Past. Present. Future. — this year’s Show will place renewed emphasis on agricultural technology and innovation, including irrigation systems, drone applications, renewable energy solutions and modern production methods.
The planned reintroduction of the Crafts and Home Industries Section in a revised format, and the reinclusion of a Children’s Art Competition will further broaden the Show’s appeal for families and visitors.
Further programme details will be released at the end of February 2026.
The Royal Agricultural Society remains committed to delivering a responsible, meaningful and forward-focused 2026 Royal Agricultural Show at Tweedie Hall.
