Spring fair delight as thousands visit Smallholding Festival

The two-day event was a celebration of rural life, showcasing the real diversity of the Welsh countryside, and proved to be a great day out.

Smallholding farmers were able to learn about all sorts of interesting activities, including talks on getting started with their farming journey, beekeeping, and goat milk demonstrations.

Scenes from the Royal Welsh Show Spring Fair.

Farming Connect Horticulture took over the Members Centre for the Growers Market, giving growers the opportunity to showcase and sell their products over the two days.  

From woodchopping and forestry competitions, to the Medieval Re-enactment Camp, there was a wealth of different rural crafts on display.

Scenes from the Royal Welsh Show Spring Fair.

The Country Life Area was bustling with have-a-go activities, such as the children’s cycling course, circus skills from the Panic Family Circus, and the Glamorgan Novelty Dog Show with the opportunity to bring your own dog to take part.

The Premier Open Dog Show was also held in the Country Life Area where hundreds of dogs competing to qualify for Crufts 2024.

This year several new equine classes were added, the main being the Rising Star qualifiers for the 2023 London International Horse Show. The society also launched brand new Home-Produced classes with the help of the Welsh Pony and Cob Society (WPCS). 

Geraint James, the Honorary Festival Director said: “We have had a fantastic few days at the Smallholding and Countryside Festival, everyone was excited to be back in Llanelwedd to kick-start the show season. The Festival was the first event after the post-Covid uncertainty of last year, so it was great to see it back in full swing, with visitors feeling confident to attend events once again.

"We were blessed with excellent weather throughout the weekend, which contributed to the positive, feel-good atmosphere around the showground.”

After last years success, the Wool Zone returned, showcasing the versatility and fabulous creations made from wool with various displays and tradestands. 

Scenes from the Royal Welsh Show Spring Fair.

The Little Nippers Display performed their comical tricks, along with a host of other entertainment, including the spectacular vintage display of the Welsh Festival of Land Rovers.

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As well as the Food Hall which hosts producers showcasing the very best produce from Wales, the popular Street Food Area was bustling throughout the weekend with people taking a moment to relax and enjoy an ice cream in the sunshine.  

RWAS Chief Executive, Aled Rhys Jones said: "A huge amount of people, families from across Wales and beyond have come here to enjoy the animals, the food, and the entertainment.

"It’s been a cracking weekend here at the showground and the countdown begins for The Royal Welsh Show.”