Castlewellan Agricultural Show Sees biggest crowds yet as the sun shines at Castlewellan Forest Park
Thousands of visitors attended Castlewellan Forest Park on Saturday 18th July as the 2026 Castlewellan Agricultural Show enjoyed one of its biggest and most successful events to date.
Excellent weather and a packed programme of attractions drew huge crowds throughout the day, with families, farmers, exhibitors and visitors travelling from across Northern Ireland and beyond to enjoy a celebration of agriculture, food and rural life in the heart of County Down.
The show featured thousands of animals competing across a wide range of livestock classes, including beef and dairy cattle, sheep, horses and ponies, donkeys, pigs, poultry, rabbits and cavies. Showjumping, pony games, dog agility and the ever-popular Dog Show also attracted large crowds and provided entertainment throughout the day.
A new addition to this year’s programme, the Sheep Speed Shearing Competition, proved to be a major attraction, drawing spectators eager to watch competitors demonstrate their skill and speed.
Visitors also explored the extensive trade stands, craft marquee, Eco Village and Home Industries marquee, while younger visitors enjoyed the wide range of family attractions, including bouncy castles, inflatable slides, bumper cars and face painting.
The Food Tent remained a popular destination throughout the day, showcasing some of Northern Ireland’s finest local produce through live cookery demonstrations by chefs from Killeavy Castle, Hillyard House Hotel and Burrendale Hotel.
Down News Facebook Photos – Castlewellan Show 2026
Live entertainment added to the atmosphere, with performances from Country Harmony, Box Car Brian and Lauren McCrory, while the return of the Jiving Competition with JivinGym once again proved a favourite with competitors and spectators alike.
The organising committee would like to extend its sincere thanks to the volunteers, sponsors, exhibitors, competitors, judges, stewards, traders and everyone who attended and supported this year’s show.
Their continued commitment and support have helped make Castlewellan Agricultural Show one of the leading agricultural events in Northern Ireland.
Castlewellan Agricultural Show continues to celebrate the very best of farming and rural life while providing an important showcase for local businesses, food producers and community organisations.
The annual event also brings significant economic benefits to the local area by attracting visitors from across the region.
Following the success of this year’s event, preparations are already underway for the 2027 Castlewellan Agricultural Show, with organisers looking forward to welcoming everyone back to Castlewellan Forest Park for another memorable day celebrating farming, food and family fun.
And lastly, the held Limousin Cattle National Show was held at Castlewellan on 18th July
