EACH year, show lovers, farmers, agricultural enthusiasts, brands and families descend on the ancient Cornish capital for one-day of fun at Launceston Show.
For more than 135 years, the annual event has been a staple in calendars and 2024’s event is set to welcome residents and visitors for a fun-filled day.
On July 25, excited attendees from across the country will take the pilgrimage to Launceston with the hope of going home with a coveted ribbon, recognising their creative efforts, prized livestock, well trained dog or even their culinary excellence.
At 2023’s show, a huge number of locals and visitors travelled to Kennards House to visit the agricultural event. There was plenty to see and do including gun dog and falconry displays, ferret racing, face painting, Magic Martin, speed shearing, the Iberian horse show, heavy horses, vintage vehicles, pony games and so much more.
This year there will be even more on offer with the classic horse, cattle, sheep and poultry showing and even something new. The show committee has revealed some of the additions to July’s show, including a dedicated children’s area.
A spokesperson said: “New for this year, a specialised area for the children. With stalls, sweets, rides and fun – a great place for young people to have a run around. With nearby catering and refreshments for parents – a good place to leave the Dads too!
“We also welcome the all new magician and circus workshop.”
As well as this, 2024’s show will feature a brand new stage to host local performers, dancers and musicians.
It’s not just the show committee who will be making sure there is plenty to get stuck in with, as local groups take to the showground to add their spin to the day’s entertainment.
Launceston’s Young Farmers’ Club will be out and about on the day. The group always provide an added element to the Launceston Show with numerous competitions both inside and outside their marquee. Classes included handicraft, cookery, photography, floral, produce and livestock.
Also taking to the show ground will be Launceston’s branch of the Women’s Institute and can be found in their very own marquee.
Some modern classics will also be returning, with this year marking the eighth year for 'Our Creative Community' marquee. The theme for this year is 'Feels Like Summer'.
An event spokesperson explained: “We base this event on the format of a traditional Village Show and it gives the community an opportunity to showcase their creative talents. Classes are available for produce, preserves, baking, arts, crafts and numerous children's classes. The marquee attracts hundreds of entries and proves to be incredibly popular year on year.”
Discussing this year’s event, show president Mike King said: “'My association with Launceston Agricultural Show started in my early childhood, a day off school with my parents quickly followed by competing in show-jumping classes, then as a young farmer (and the associated hijinks), and on to stewarding for many years. I joined the committee as a teenager and have not missed a show in all that time so I am greatly honoured to be asked to take the president’s seat for 2024.
“Launceston Show, as it is now known, is a highlight of the local calendar, “the country comes to town, and the town comes out to the country” – livestock judging, horse classes, tradestands, art, crafts, music – we have entertainment for all.
“Our one day Show takes a year in the making, as soon as one event ends the next one is prepared. Behind the scenes are months of planning by an army of volunteers dedicated to ensuring that when showtime comes every aspect has been covered and it’s the best event it can be. Without the team who drive this forward we wouldn’t have the Show as we know it. We are all mindful that events like this must progress with the times – fresh ideas and new concepts keep the show current. We are grateful to all those who make up the team, and extend an invitation to interested individuals who wish to come on board to ensure our show has a great future.”
Show chairman, Robert Tucker has also expressed that he hopes changes to this year’s event will allow the show to continue to grow.
He said: “Everything is changing – the show is no different. With most things being online, it was time our show moved too. I believe this brought problems for our secretary. However, we are delighted now to have our entries online, to have a new website and online ticketing.
“The traditional heart of the show remains. We now enjoy the best of both worlds. The highlight of my role as chairman is to escort the president and his wife around on show day. We get to meet and chat with exhibitors across the show field, in financially difficult times, we really are lucky to have so many traders attend.
“My wish now, is that you thoroughly enjoy your day.”
With plenty to get stuck in with, Launceston Show 2024 promises to be a must-attend event. With everything in place and things coming together, many will now be looking to the forecast and hoping the weather blesses this year’s event.
Gates open at Kennards House, Launceston at 8.30am on July 25 and close at 6pm.
How will you be getting involved?