New in 2026

2026 Melbourne Royal Art, Craft & Cookery Competition

New Challenges. New Creations. Endless Inspiration.

Creativity will once again take centre stage when the Melbourne Royal Art, Craft & Cookery Competition returns in 2026, inviting artists, makers and bakers from across Victoria and beyond to share their talents at one of the Show’s most cherished traditions. 

For generations, this competition has celebrated the joy of making — from carefully stitched embroidery and handcrafted artworks to beautifully baked cakes and treasured family recipes. In 2026, that tradition continues with nearly 450 classes and an exciting collection of new challenges designed to inspire creativity in fresh ways. 

Adding an extra spark this year is a vibrant theme colour — red. Throughout the competition, exhibitors will find new opportunities to explore the warmth, depth and drama of this striking colour across art, craft and cookery. 

One of the most exciting additions to the Art Competition is the Shades of Red Challenge, inviting artists to interpret the colour through any medium they choose. From deep ruby tones to bright scarlet hues, this category encourages artists to explore emotion, movement and storytelling through colour. 

In the Craft Competition, imagination takes many forms. Visitors to the Show will be greeted by a collection of whimsical creations in the Scarecrow Craft Challenge, where exhibitors are invited to design their own scarecrow characters using materials of their choice. Displayed in the bustling Poultry Pavilion, these creations promise to bring colour, humour and creativity to the space. 

Craft enthusiasts will also find plenty of new ways to showcase their skills. The Calligraphy Quote Challenge celebrates the art of beautiful lettering, while the Beaded Headband Challenge highlights delicate embellishment and handcrafted detail. For those beginning their craft journey, the Novice Crochet Garment class offers a welcoming opportunity to create a wearable piece, from cosy jumpers to elegant shawls. 

Red returns again in the Scarlet Stitches Challenge, where embroiderers are encouraged to draw inspiration from vibrant flowers, fruits, wildlife and earthy tones. Meanwhile, milliners can demonstrate their precision and creativity through the Miniature Millinery Challenge, crafting beautifully detailed designs on a small scale. 

For makers whose creations defy easy categorisation, the Miscellaneous Craft class provides an open stage for innovative and unusual handmade pieces. 

In the Cookery Competition, creativity continues in delicious form. The Edible Ornaments Challenge invites bakers to create beautifully decorated Christmas ornaments ready to hang on the tree, while the Melbourne Royal Show Cake encourages competitors to design a showstopping cake inspired by the colour, excitement and tradition of the Show itself. 

Playfulness also has its place in the kitchen. The Cute and Comic Cake class celebrates imagination and humour in cake design, while the Craft Cake challenge transforms the world of craft into edible form — with bakers creating cakes inspired by stitching, yarn, buttons and handmade textures. 

And for those drawn to this year’s colour theme, the Candy in Crimson Challenge invites confectioners to celebrate red through flavour and colour, from raspberry and cherry to strawberry and other vibrant delights. 

The 2026 program will also mark a very special milestone. This year celebrates 90 years of the iconic Country Women's Association Tearooms at the Melbourne Royal Show, a beloved tradition that has welcomed generations of visitors. To honour this remarkable anniversary, two special classes have been introduced. In The Secret Scone, competitors will bake two scones using the official CWA recipe, adding a single secret ingredient to create a flavour uniquely their own. Meanwhile, Tea Room Textiles invites exhibitors to create handcrafted textile pieces inspired by the warmth and charm of the Tearooms — from aprons and tea towels to runners and potholders. 

While the classes may evolve each year, the spirit of the competition remains the same. For more than a century, the Melbourne Royal Art, Craft & Cookery Competition has been a place where creativity is celebrated, skills are shared, and exhibitors take pride in presenting their work to the community. And, of course, every exhibitor dreams of that moment when their work is recognised with a coveted Melbourne Royal Blue Ribbon. 

With the 2026 Preview Schedule now available, there has never been a better time to start planning your entries. Whether you’re painting, stitching, crafting or baking, the Melbourne Royal Show offers a stage to share your creativity with thousands of visitors. So, gather your materials, warm up the oven and let your imagination lead the way. The 2026 Melbourne Royal Art, Craft & Cookery Competition is ready to inspire.