DATES: Tuesday 9 – Friday 12 July 2024
TIMES: 8am – 6pm each day
LOCATION: Regional Agricultural Centre, Great Yorkshire Showground, Railway Road, Harrogate, HG2 8NZ
WEBSITE: https://greatyorkshireshow.co.uk/

The Great Yorkshire Show, a hallmark of British agricultural excellence, is an annual event that captivates attendees with a rich blend of tradition, innovation, and community spirit. Set in the picturesque Great Yorkshire Showground in Harrogate, this event stands as a testament to the agricultural heritage and future of Yorkshire and beyond. The show features a diverse range of attractions, including cookery demonstrations, livestock competitions, and an array of main ring attractions that cater to all ages and interests.

One of the highlights of the 2024 show is the inclusion of a world-first event: the World Ayrshire Federation Annual Conference, which will see around 100 farmers from various countries, including Kenya, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and America, convening as part of a UK tour. This marks the Great Yorkshire Show as the only agricultural show they will attend during their 18-day tour, emphasizing the show’s international appeal and significance in the agricultural sector​​.

The event’s significance is further underscored by its ticketing strategy, which, since 2021, has necessitated advance purchase due to its popularity, with the show selling out a week before the event each year. For the 2024 show, tickets are capped at 35,000 visitors per day, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable experience for all attendees. Ticket prices for adults, children, and families, along with membership options for the Yorkshire Agricultural Society, have been thoughtfully set to accommodate a wide range of visitors​​.

The first day of the 2023 Great Yorkshire Show was a resounding success, drawing 35,000 visitors who enjoyed a variety of activities, from sheepdog trials and show jumping to food, drink, and live music. The attendance of notable figures such as HRH The Duke of Gloucester and Countryfile presenter Adam Henson, alongside the breathtaking sunrise over the showground, provided a perfect backdrop to the event’s rich offerings​​.

The Great Yorkshire Show is more than just an event; it’s a celebration of agricultural excellence, community, and innovation. With each passing year, it continues to build upon its legacy, showcasing the best of farming, food, and countryside life, while providing a vibrant platform for learning, competition, and entertainment.

Short History Of The Show

The Great Yorkshire Show was first held in 1838, and it has been an annual event ever since, with the exception of a few years during World War I and World War II. The show was initially held in different locations around the county, but in 1951, it moved to its current site at the Great Yorkshire Showground in Harrogate.

Over the years, the show has grown in size and popularity, attracting visitors and exhibitors from all over the world. In 1861, Queen Victoria visited the show, which was a significant event for the organizers and helped to raise the profile of the event.

In 1955, the Great Yorkshire Show introduced a new feature, the Grand Parade, which showcases all of the prize-winning animals from the livestock competitions. This has become one of the highlights of the show, and it is now one of the largest livestock parades in the country.

In 2009, the Great Yorkshire Show celebrated its 150th anniversary, and the event was marked with a special exhibition showcasing the history of the show and the changes that had taken place over the years.