This year’s Balmoral Show has fallen victim to the COVID-19 pandemic – and it’s the latest event in Northern Ireland to be axed.
The show was due to take place in August.
Over 100,000 attended the show last year.
The Royal Ulster Agricultural Society (RUAS) made the announcement today (Monday).
Dr Alan Crowe, RUAS Chief Executive said the decision to cancel the show was not taken lightly.
“Please be assured that we did not come to this decision lightly, however after several meetings and the exploration of all alternative options, it became clear that we would have been unable to run the 2020 Show on the rearranged August dates during these unprecedented times,” he said.
Dr Croww said they have an obligation to protect the health and wellbeing of all staff, members, competitors, visitors, volunteers, trade exhibitors, sponsors, contractors and suppliers.
“As Northern Ireland’s largest agri-food event with over 120,000 visitors each year, we are aware of the time, money and hard work put into attending the show by livestock exhibitors, competitors, sponsors, trade stands and suppliers.
“With many local farmers, businesses and visitors facing financial uncertainty at present, we feel that everything is stacked against us in trying to run a show in August.
“Moving forward, the RUAS will continue to take great pride in supporting and showcasing our local farming community and we plan to return next year with a Balmoral Show stronger than ever.”
The 2021 show in partnership with Ulster Bank will now take place from Wednesday 12 May to Saturday 15 May 2021 at Balmoral Park, Lisburn.
All tickets purchased for the 2020 Balmoral Show will receive a full refund.