It’s hard to believe the first agricultural show of the year took place over the weekend, the first of over 130 on the roster across Ireland in 2026.

In many ways, it doesn’t feel like summer is here, as we barely got a glimpse of spring.

Many things have changed since the 2025 show season; earlier this year the first case of bluetongue was confirmed in Ireland, raising many questions for summer shows.

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The Royal Ulster Agricultural Society was first out of the blocks, making it a requirement of entry that all cattle must be vaccinated against the disease to attend Balmoral.

However, as of yet, it is not a requirement for animals to be vaccinated against bluetongue to attend agricultural shows in Ireland.

The mere presence of the disease on the island may have an impact, but the fact is many have vaccinated against the disease, which should limit the effect on numbers.

Excellent animal welfare

This time last year I spoke about the importance of summer shows, highlighting our small island’s excellent animal welfare standards, elite genetics, outstanding animal husbandry and our culture.

I also touched on the importance of summer shows in narrowing the divide between indexes and phenotype in livestock.

This spring saw indexes play a massive role in pedigree cattle sales once again.

Let’s be real, some of the highest index animals are not the most appealing to the eyes, displaying anything but breed character, a concern shared among many breeders and societies.

Summer shows allow breeders to demonstrate the true characteristics of their breeds.

Most importantly, the future of showing is bright, as demonstrated at the Tullamore Show young handler event on Sunday. The enthusiasm of the youth in attendance was mesmerising.

Over the coming months we will endeavour to bring you as much coverage as possible from shows around the country. If you’re out and about, please do say hello and remember to share your photos with us along the way.

In this week’s Focus we look at the list of shows for 2026, speak to some of the key people involved in their organisation, give some tips on showing, and catch up with two All-Ireland champion stockpersons.