It’s that time of year again, and communities across the Northern Tablelands are gearing up for one of the most cherished local traditions on the regional calendar – agricultural shows. Rounding out February are three iconic events – the Ashford Show, Guyra Show, and Inverell Show – and they are set to bring together families, farmers, artisans and visitors for a celebration of rural life, competition, entertainment and community connection.
First up for 2026 is the Ashford Show, hosted by the Ashford Show Society. Now in its 42nd annual year, this much-loved event will be held on Saturday 21 and Sunday 22 February at the Ashford Showground.
Celebrated as “the best family-friendly show on the New England calendar”, the Ashford Show offers a packed weekend of pavilion displays, demonstrations, live entertainment, ring events, shearing competitions, kids’ games and more, with activities running from early morning into the afternoon. There’s fun for all ages, from bucking bull challenges to food stalls and fireworks, making it a perfect community outing for families and visitors alike. Entry is affordable, at just $5 per car, with a focus on local engagement, and the show promises to highlight the best of the small-town spirit that defines Ashford and the surrounding district.
On the same weekend, the Guyra Show Society will host its 118th Annual Show on Friday, 20 and Saturday, 21 February 2026. The Guyra Show is a cornerstone of the region’s agricultural showcase, offering classic country attractions like cattle and lamb shows, horse events, shearing competitions, wood chopping and wool displays. The ever–popular pavilion will be filled with arts, crafts, cooking, photography, flowers and fruit and vegetable displays, demonstrating the talents and agricultural prowess of local producers.
In addition to daytime attractions, the Guyra Show offers evening entertainment — including a bull ride on Friday night and a lively lineup on Saturday night featuring music (often from local bands such as Back Track), fireworks and a demolition derby, adding to the festive atmosphere that keeps families and showgoers returning year after year.
Rounding out this trio of community celebrations is the 158th Inverell Show, scheduled for Friday 27 and Saturday 28 February 2026 at the Inverell Showground. With a history stretching back to 1868, the Inverell Show is one of the most established agricultural events in the region and continues to draw crowds from across the Northern Tablelands.
The Inverell Show offers something for everyone, from campdraft and rodeo events to woodchopping, yard dog trials, whip cracking and livestock exhibits. The showground buzzes with side-show alley rides, food vans, show bags and displays of agricultural machinery. Inside the pavilion, visitors can admire a vast array of arts and crafts, fresh produce and cookery entries, reflecting the skill and creativity of locals. Entertainment across the two days often includes spectacular performances and fireworks, ensuring fun from dawn to dusk.
These three shows not only showcase the best of rural life and agriculture but also highlight the strong community bonds that define the region. They offer important opportunities for local producers and artisans to display their talents, for families to share in wholesome entertainment, and for neighbours and visitors to come together and celebrate rural heritage. With each show offering its own unique flavour and traditions, this year’s show season promises to be a memorable one across the New England and Inverell Shire districts.
Whether you’re exhibiting livestock, entering a competition, or just enjoying the atmosphere with friends and family, make sure to mark these dates in your calendar. The show season is well and truly underway!
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