The South of England Agricultural Society hailed Spring Live! 2026 a “huge success” after thousands flocked to the South of England Showground last weekend (18th & 19th April) for this popular, family event.
Visitors enjoyed a packed programme of activities for all ages, with the 2026 event headlined, for the first time, by the RPM Biketrials Display, providing adrenaline-fuelled entertainment across the weekend. The animal barn was popular as ever, giving visitors a chance to meet Dexter Cattle, Hampshire Down Sheep and Kune Kune Pigs, while the Pygmy Goat Show and South of England Alpaca Show delighted children and adults alike. Canine lovers were well catered for with have a go sessions by Quad Squad Dog Agility, putting their dogs through their paces on the agility course and the fun dog show on Sunday.
There was no shortage of hands-on activities, including archery, axe-throwing, and bushcraft skills. Younger visitors could also try their hand at circus skills, wand-making workshops and the ever-popular chocolate workshop. They were also kept busy behind the wheels of the Mini Monster Mania Trucks, enjoying a donkey ride, having a go on the funfair and taking in the fun and games of the Sheep Show. The Fluffy Duck Trail was popular, enabling families to explore the Showground, have a go at ‘milking’ the Society’s model cow Clover, handle reptiles and amphibians with the Hampshire Reptile Trust, and have a go at seed planting.
There were also plenty of displays for families to sit and enjoy, including a wood carver at work, kite flying, and the sights and sounds of the lawnmower racing as teams battled for a spot on the podium with the British Lawnmower Racing Association competitions.
Meanwhile, in the horticultural area, visitors could chat with expert gardeners, explore vintage machinery, and admire the floral competition entries. There was also no shortage of shopping opportunities, with a whole host of local, independent producers selling clothing, jewellery, homeware, artisan food and drink, and gifts.
Corrie Ince, Show Director at the South of England Agricultural Society, commented:
“We are delighted to report that Spring Live! 2026 was a huge success. Once again, families flocked to the showground to enjoy a true country show, packed with activities and entertainment for everyone, regardless of their age. It was wonderful to see so many children meeting the animals, having a go at learning new skills, and enjoying the many displays on offer.
“As a charity, our aim is not only to entertain but to educate and inspire future generations about the importance of agriculture and rural industries. Events like this are part of our commitment to building awareness and understanding of land-based careers, and any profits directly support our ongoing work in agricultural education and countryside learning.”
With Spring Live! now concluded, all eyes are on the headline event of the year: the South of England Show, taking place from Friday 5th to Sunday 7th June 2026. This flagship show is set to be the biggest on the calendar, bringing together a full-scale showcase of agriculture, equestrian events, food, shopping, and live entertainment, making it an unmissable family day out.
Tickets for the South of England Show (open 9am to 6.30pm each day) can be purchased at www.seas.org.uk and cost £25.20 for adults and £23.40 for senior citizens/students, inclusive of a 10% advance discount until 28th May 2026. Children under 16 can enter for free, with a suggested donation of £2. Due to the number of people on site, restricted livestock areas and potential hot weather, dogs are not recommended.
