The 2025 Royal Canberra Show, held from Friday 21 to Sunday 23 February, cemented its place once again as one of Canberra’s most beloved events, deeply woven into the fabric of the city’s community life. This year’s Show delivered a vibrant celebration of agriculture, entertainment, and community spirit, attracting more than 56,000 attendees over the Show weekend, and over 100,000 visits including competitors, volunteers, and officials across the competition week. The event recorded a 38% increase in attendance compared to 2024 — a remarkable achievement amid a challenging economic climate.
The Royal National Capital Agricultural Society (RNCAS) successfully implemented a strategically targeted marketing campaign, extending the Show’s reach into surrounding regional areas while reinforcing its strong presence within the ACT. This approach was instrumental in boosting awareness and visitation from a wider audience.
Highlights of the 2025 Royal Canberra Show:
Showjumping Returned to Centre Stage:
The return of Showjumping to the main arena was a major success, captivating thousands of spectators with high-speed rounds and precision jump-offs. The event featured elite riders including three-time Australian Showjumping Champion Tom McDermott, thrilling audiences across the entire weekend.
Strong Growth in Competition Entries:
Entries increased across key sections including Horse, Art, Sheep, Dogs, and Cats, highlighting the enduring appeal and importance of the Show for competitors across Australia.
Volunteer Recognition Ceremony:
Held on the Thursday evening before the Show, the new Volunteer Recognition Ceremony was a standout moment. The Chief Minister and Patron of the RNCAS, Andrew Barr, graciously presented awards to the Show’s most dedicated volunteers, including Les White and Margaret Morris, both recognised for over 60 years of service.
Tribute to Colin Reid:
A special tribute was held in the main arena during the Show for long-serving RNCAS Red Coat Colin Reid, honouring his outstanding contribution to both the Society and the Horse Section also giving over 60 years of service.
New Attractions for Families and Children:
The introduction of the Giggles and Games Arena offered an exciting and free program of children’s activities throughout the weekend, including arts and crafts, indigenous basket weaving, balloon workshops, giant games, and ball skills sessions with Canberra’s sporting heroes. A major hit was the launch of the EQ Saddlery Hobby Horse Showjumping Competition, allowing young riders to experience the thrill of a showjumping course in a fun and imaginative way.
Art and Photography Competition Returns:
After many years, the much-anticipated return of the Art and Photography Competition drew hundreds of entries, showcasing community creativity across painting, drawing, and photography categories.
New Nighttime Entertainment:
A new and wildly popular addition was the Chicken and Fox Run — an action-packed, comedic arena show featuring daring chases, clever stunts, and plenty of laughs under the night lights.
The success of the 2025 Royal Canberra Show is a true reflection of the passion, dedication, and hard work of competitors, volunteers, judges, councillors, staff, commercial partners, and the broader Canberra community.
We are proud of what we achieved together and are already looking forward to welcoming everyone back to Exhibition Park from 20–22 February 2026 for another unforgettable celebration.