Thousands of visitors gathered at Llanelwedd yesterday (Monday) for the opening of the 2026 Royal Welsh Show, a four-day celebration of the best of Welsh agriculture, food, countryside and rural life.
Major Andrew Butcher MBE, senior training safety officer at Sennybridge Defence Training Camp, officially opened the show, joined by Royal Welsh Agricultural Society (RWAS) chair of council Nicola Davies, president Gethin Havard and invited guests from across the agricultural industry, government and rural organisations.
Senior political figures from the Welsh and UK Governments, including the newly elected First Minister of Wales, Rhun ap Iorwerth MS, were also there, reflecting the show’s status as one of the nation’s most significant annual events.
Nicola described the 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 RWAS Feature County, having previously held the honour in 1964, 1980, 1997 and 2012.
President Mr Havard and his family, county advisory committee chair Rob Powell, honorary secretary Shelley Hughes, ambassador Teleri Haf Thomas and the many volunteers were thanked for their hard work and dedication.
Last month’s successful Grassland Event at Cwmbrynich, hosted by the Havard family, was one of the highlights of the county’s feature year.
Major 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,” he said. “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 opened the show to a fanfare from the Regimental Band of The Royal Welsh.
Among the show’s major highlights is the launch of Cynefin, the new Welsh Sheep Village, delivered in partnership between the RWAS and the National Sheep Association (NSA).
The village was opened by Margaret Dalton OBE and Alun Evans CBE, 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 show, 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 has 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 began with a packed programme of entertainment, including the show debut of the Shetland Pony Grand National, the return of the 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.
