The 2026 Royal Welsh Show was officially declared open yesterday (Monday 20 July), as thousands of visitors gathered at Llanelwedd for the start of four days celebrating the very best of Welsh agriculture, food, countryside and rural life.
Major Andrew Butcher MBE, Senior Training Safety Officer at Sennybridge Defence Training Camp, officially opened this year’s Show during the traditional Opening Ceremony, joined by Royal Welsh Agricultural Society Chair of Council Nicola Davies, President Gethin Havard and invited guests from across the agricultural industry, government and rural organisations. The ceremony also welcomed senior political figures from the Welsh and UK Governments, including the newly elected First Minister of Wales, Rhun ap Iorwerth MS, reflecting the Royal Welsh Show’s status as one of the nation’s most significant annual events.
Welcoming guests to the ceremony, Nicola Davies described the Royal Welsh Show as “an important national occasion” and “one of the largest agricultural shows in Europe”, highlighting its role in showcasing “the very best of Wales” through its food, farming, culture, language and innovation.
This year marks the fifth time that Brecknock has served as the Society’s Feature County, having previously held the honour in 1964, 1980, 1997 and 2012. During the ceremony, special thanks were given to President Gethin Havard and his family, County Advisory Committee Chair Rob Powell, Honorary Secretary Shelley Hughes, Ambassador Teleri Haf Thomas and the many volunteers whose hard work and dedication have helped make Brecknock’s year so far such a success. Recognition was also given to last month’s successful Grassland Event at Cwmbrynich, hosted by the Havard family, which proved to be one of the highlights of the county’s Feature Year.
In his address, Major Andrew Butcher praised the strength of Welsh agriculture and the rural communities that underpin it.
“In a rapidly changing world, the importance of agriculture has never been clearer. It is central to our economy, to our environment, and to our food security. But beyond all that, it is central to our identity.
“The Royal Welsh Show stands as a powerful reminder of that truth. It showcases excellence, encourages innovation, and strengthens the bonds between us. It brings town and country together, offering a space where understanding can grow and where traditions can be celebrated and shared.”
A special tribute was also paid to the families of Epynt, who were displaced from their homes in 1940 to make way for a military training area. Their sacrifice, made in a time of national need, was remembered with gratitude and respect.
Major Butcher then officially declared the 2026 Royal Welsh Show open, to a fanfare from the Regimental Band of The Royal Welsh.
Among the major highlights of this year’s Show is the launch of Cynefin, the new Welsh Sheep Village, delivered in partnership between the Royal Welsh Agricultural Society and the National Sheep Association (NSA). The village was officially opened on the first day of the Show by Mrs Margaret Dalton OBE FRAgS and Mr Alun Evans CBE FRAgS, both longstanding champions of the Welsh and UK sheep industry.
The dedicated area celebrates the people, breeds, products and traditions that have shaped sheep farming in Wales, while showcasing innovation and best practice across the sector. Throughout the week, visitors can enjoy a varied programme of educational displays, live demonstrations, discussions and interactive activities, helping to deepen understanding of the vital role sheep farming plays in Wales’ landscape, rural economy and heritage.
The popular Horticulture Village also returned with a packed programme of expert talks, demonstrations and hands-on activities. BBC Gardeners’ World presenter Adam Frost joined the opening day as special guest judge for the Micro Show Garden Competition, before taking part in a question-and-answer session with visitors.
Elsewhere, the Main Ring programme got underway with a packed programme of entertainment, including the Royal Welsh debut of the Shetland Pony Grand National, the return of the thrilling Paul Hannam Quad Bike Stunt Show and spectacular displays from Hawkeye Falconry and the RAF Falcons. Visitors also enjoyed a special performance by Britain’s Got Talent winners, the Hawkstone Farmers’ Choir and a colourful display celebrating the 90th anniversary of Wales YFC.
With three days of livestock competitions, shopping, food and drink, countryside attractions and entertainment still to come, the opening day marked the start of another memorable Royal Welsh Show celebrating the very best of Welsh agriculture and rural life.
For more information and to purchase tickets, visit www.rwas.wales.