What must visitors see at the Royal Norfolk Show this year? Try show director Mark Nicholas's top picks for 2018.
SPIRE SOLICITORS GRAND RING ENTERTAINMENT
The Grand Ring programme offers a packed spectacle of displays and equestrian events. This year the stand-out events include aerial stunts by the Adrenaline Tour quad bike displays, and join us for a special appearance by Deborah II, the replica Mk IV Tank – as seen on Channel 4's documentary Guy Martin's WWI Tank – to commemorate the centenary of the end of the First World War. Also appearing in the Grand Ring is the RAF Falcons Parachute Display Team, Band of the Parachute Regiment, top-level show jumping, parade of hounds and scurry driving.
LIVESTOCK SHOWING
Come and see what the show is famous for and see nearly 3,000 livestock. Famous breeds of cattle, sheep, goats and poultry will be on show and competing. Don't miss the Dexter cattle national show taking place this year while the popular Mr Mawkin's Farm will be home to some of the UK's rarest breeds of livestock.
LOCAL FOOD AND DRINK PRODUCERS
The Adnams Food and Drink Experience is the place to go to sample the best of Norfolk produce. At least 100 local food and drink producers will provide a sensation of tantalising scents and flavours – sizzling sausages, tempting pies, creamy cheeses and posh pop. With a focus on top-quality local food and drink producers, the area promotes all that's great in Norfolk.
Why not take advantage of the new food crèche while you enjoy the rest of the show? This year also marks the debut of the Flavours Food Hub in the retail area of the show.
NEW HORTICULTURE AREA
The new horticulture experience is a must this year. The area is a great representation of the horticultural industry, with show gardens, school gardens, community projects, pollinators and the Indoor and Urban trade marquee. The Norfolk Growing Stage will showcase a programme of inspiring talks, demonstrations and entertainment throughout both days of the show, including chef demonstrations and cookery, and celebrating the best seasonal and local produce. We also welcome back the Norfolk and Norwich Horticultural Society, which will be holding the annual Flower Show.
SURF AND TURF
This year, the show has butchery and fishmongery demonstrations as part of the Field to Fork and Our Coast themes. Some of the county's top butchers and fishmongers will show the variety of meat and fish cuts. To end each day, a fun competition will take place between our butchers – the steaks are high! Don't miss the auction in support of EACH and RABI.
COUNTRYSIDE AREA
Come and see the work of the Norfolk Wildlife Trust, RSPB and other countryside-related organisations. Look out for the programme of ring activities which will include the popular pig racing, Dog and Duck show, dog agility show and large-bird displays. Try your hand at archery, fly fishing and canoeing.
The best farriers and blacksmiths will be in action – be sure to visit the Broads Village celebrating our own national park and the new Forestry and Wood Village, demonstrating a variety of skills and trades.
JIMMY'S FESTIVAL, BANDS AND PERFORMING ARTS
The Norfolk Music Hub has more than 50 local bands and performing arts groups taking part in the show. Enjoy the programmes at the members' bandstand, retail bandstand, Norfolk Growing stage and the new Woodland Arena. Jimmy's Festival will take over in the Woodland Arena for an extended evening programme of entertainment on Wednesday.
SHOPPING
Browse the day away with more than 700 retailers featuring major brands like Aga, Fairfax and Favor, Isuzu, Joules, Spanish Boot Co, Thomas & Co, Mercedes-Benz and hundreds of Norfolk retailers. View and buy local art at the show Art Gallery. And visit Hopkins Homes' Royal Square to enjoy the Jarrold Fashion Show or listen to a band.
WELLBEING
Wellbeing is at the heart of this year's show and there is a host of organisations promoting interesting hobbies and activities. Visit the Active Norfolk Sports Zone to try a new fitness fad or discover more about how gardening and plants can enhance wellbeing at the new Flower and Garden show, while the countryside area promotes outdoor pursuits, crafts and other activities.
Save money with advance tickets at www.royalnorfolkshow.co.uk
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