History of the Royal Show

History of the Royal Show

The Royal Show has run successfully for 169 years, ever-increasing in value to hundreds of thousands of visitors annually. Read on to learn more about its History.

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Pietermaritzburg’s Royal Show has been going for nearly two centuries – 169 years to be exact! The Royal Show is Africa’s largest mixed agricultural show that encompasses animal showing, auctioneering, exhibits, a variety of stalls and many, many events and activities for all ages. 

This annual ten-day extravaganza is well known for its unique blend of lifestyle, livestock, music and fun, fun, fun. 

A Long & Proud Tradition in KwaZulu-Natal 

As the farming heartland of KwaZulu-Natal, Pietermaritzburg was founded in 1851 to bring farmers and industry experts together to educate the public as well as entertain them. The Showgrounds have grown over the years from a humble setup in the market square to a whopping eighteen hectares. 

The Show was granted its ‘Royal’ status in 1905 by King Edward VII, who recognised it as KZN’s leading agricultural and commercial exposition. 

Today, the Royal Show and all its glory attract an average of 220 000 individuals from far and wide, all gathering to wonder at the agricultural prowess of South Africa. 

What Is the Show All About?

The Royal Show has long since been a jewel in the Pietermaritzburg area, bringing the agricultural sector, farmers and stockists, and the public together for an experience equally exciting as it is educational. 

The Food Hall at the Royal Show is 2100m², making enough room for show goers to examine the entire food chain from farm field to dinner table in great detail, as presented by exhibits and demonstrations.

The Crafts and Home Industries Hall will delight all ages with eclectic displays and interactive demonstrations of all kinds of talent. The wonders one might find here include, but are not limited to embroidery, tapestries, paintings, beading and wood sculpting. 

A variety of open site stands will cater for a mix of exhibits, ranging from swimming pools to tractors. The inclusion of such stands has encouraged a large influx of exhibitors at the Royal Show, placing value in the Show as a corporate marketing and branding hub. 

There’s Always Something for Everyone at the Royal Show 

The ambiance of the Royal Show is unparalleled, as no other mixed agricultural event shares quite the same diversity as that of the Rainbow Nation. Escape city living for a few days and join us at the Royal Show 2019 for ten days of pure delight. From farmers to retailers to average Joe, all are welcome and encouraged to interact and learn more about one of South Africa’s fastest growing industries. 

Beat the Queues & Order Your Royal Show Tickets Online Today! 

Tickets to the Royal Show can be purchased on the Royal Show website here, & at the following pricing:

Adults - R70.00

Senior citizens (60+) - R45.00

Juniors (under 12) - R45.00

Pre-School Kids - FREE! 

Check out our handy ticket ordering guide for step-by-step instructions, or contact us with your questions.

ALSO READ: Top 10 reasons to attend this year's Royal Show

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