Melbourne Royal Show Update: May 2026
15 May 2026 / Melbourne Royal Show, Melbourne Royal News
Planning for the 2026 Melbourne Royal Show continues to build strong momentum, and there is a real sense of excitement building across the organisation as teams work closely with competition committees, partners, exhibitors and stakeholders toward another outstanding Show.
Agricultural and leisure competitions remain at the very heart of the Melbourne Royal Show and planning across all competition areas is progressing strongly. Competition schedules have now been released, with Woodchop and Horses in Action already open, and Beef Carcase and Dogs opening by the end of May. June will be a particularly busy month for entries, with Beef Cattle, Sheep, Fleece, Poultry, Alpaca and Art, Craft & Cookery all opening throughout the month. We encourage exhibitors and competitors to keep an eye on opening and closing dates and submit entries early.
Our Competitions team is also working closely with committees to further improve the visibility and accessibility of judging and competitions throughout the event, helping visitors better connect with the incredible scale, skill and tradition that underpin Melbourne Royal’s blue-ribbon competitions. We are particularly pleased that Poultry judging will once again take place during the Show itself, creating a more engaging and authentic experience for patrons.
There is also strong momentum across our sponsorship program and we are delighted to welcome several new sponsors to the Melbourne Royal Show family including Crayola, Better Living, Fettayleh Meats and Horsey People. While partnership opportunities are filling quickly, there are still a limited number of assets available and we would greatly appreciate introductions to organisations or businesses that may be interested in partnering with one of Victoria’s most iconic major events.
Another major focus area is retail exhibitors, with strong interest already being received for the 2026 Show. The Melbourne Royal Show continues to provide a unique platform for businesses to connect with hundreds of thousands of visitors across the 11 days of the event. Our new Home and Living Pavilion is already being very well received and will bring together lifestyle, home, health and wellbeing brands in a high-traffic location adjacent to Gourmet Pantry & Cellar, helping create an even stronger and more vibrant retail offering for 2026.
Several exciting experience enhancements are also underway for 2026, including the expansion of the Animal Nursery into a larger location near the rail entrance, new family attractions, and refreshed entertainment experiences across both day and night programming.
The Melbourne Royal Show remains one of Victoria’s most cherished major events and an important opportunity to celebrate agriculture, community and family experiences. I look forward to sharing further updates over the coming months and, ultimately, welcoming you all back to the 2026 Melbourne Royal Show.
Hannah von Bibra,
Executive General Manager, Melbourne Royal Show