All Eyes on 2026: Melbourne Royal Show Planning Hits Full Stride

Planning for the 2026 Melbourne Royal Show is well underway, with strong momentum across all areas of the event as we build towards another outstanding Show for the Victorian community.

Following the 2025 Show, extensive market research and stakeholder feedback have informed a clear set of priorities for 2026. These include strengthening our agricultural storytelling, enhancing entertainment, refining the site layout, all whilst continuing to elevate the overall visitor experience.

Several exciting changes are planned for the Show to improve flow, increase engagement and create new opportunities for exhibitors and partners. The much-loved Animal Nursery will move into a larger location in Building 4 near the rail entrance, allowing us to significantly expand the experience and further showcase one of the Show’s most popular attractions. Arts, Craft & Cookery will relocate to Building 10 alongside the iconic CWA Café, which celebrates 90 years at the Show, creating a vibrant precinct celebrating creativity and tradition. A brand-new Commercial Pavilion will be introduced in Building 13, responding directly to exhibitor feedback and bringing together a strong mix of retail, lifestyle, health and wellbeing brands in a high-traffic location alongside our successful Gourmet Pantry & Cellar.

Agricultural and leisure competitions remain at the heart of the Melbourne Royal Show and planning is progressing well, with strong interest already across several categories. A renewed focus will be placed on increasing visibility and accessibility of judging, ensuring visitors can better engage with these important and highly respected competitions. To support this we are also opening up more behind-the-scenes access across our livestock and equine areas, giving visitors greater opportunity to connect with animals and experience the scale and authenticity of the Show.

We look forward to sharing further updates in the coming months as we continue preparations for the 2026 Melbourne Royal Show.

With fabulous new attractions, entertainment and exhibition pavilions, there's never been a better year to be involved as a retail exhibitor or sponsor.

The Melbourne Royal Show is a unique platform to reach, connect and engage with more than 400,000 consumers over 11 days. To find out more about the opportunities, visit royalshow.com.au or email andy.vo@melbourneroyal.com.au.