The Kingdom County Show will return to Ballymacthomas, Tralee, Co. Kerry, next weekend, marking its 76th year as one of the county’s leading agricultural and community events.

Run by a dedicated voluntary committee, the show continues to play a central role in promoting agriculture, rural life, and local enterprise across Kerry and the wider Munster region.

This year’s event - which will take place on Saturday, May 9 and Sunday, May 10 - will see a significant expansion of classes across livestock, equestrian and home industries, further strengthening its reputation as a competitive and progressive show within the agricultural calendar.

Livestock

The livestock section at the Kingdom County Show will once again be a major highlight, with a strong schedule of dairy and beef classes, including the All-Ireland Holstein Friesian unclipped heifer calf class, sponsored by Munster Bovine.

Open to calves born on or after February 1, 2026, the class offers exhibitors the opportunity to compete at national level, with a total prize fund of €600, and prizes awarded from 1st to 6th place.

Young farmer participation remains a key focus, with dedicated young handler classes in both the dairy and beef sections, supported by Kerry IFA.

Dairy young handlers will also compete as part of the Irish Holstein Friesian Association Young Members Association Showmanship League, encouraging skill development and providing a pathway for the next generation of exhibitors.

In the equestrian section, competitors will have the opportunity to compete in a range of qualifier classes for shows including Killusty, Barnyroe, Tinahely, Kildysart, Tydavnet and Bannow & Rathangan, as well as a Connemara ridden qualifier for Kilrush Show.

The Kingdom County Show will also host the Munster Showjumping Grand Prix on Sunday, with a prize fund of €2,000 attracting leading riders from across the region.

A strong vintage and machinery display will also feature across the weekend, offering plenty of interest for tractor and machinery enthusiasts, and adding to the show’s broad agricultural appeal.

Family day out

Alongside its strong agricultural offering, the Kingdom County Show continues to deliver a broad programme for the general public.

Family-friendly attractions will include children’s handling classes; a dog show; led pony classes; Ger’s mobile petting farm; a sheepdog experience; amusements; and a wide range of trade stands showcasing local businesses and services.

In recognition of the importance of community engagement, this year’s show will support Kerry Stars Special Olympics Club as its chosen charity, while Irish Guide Dogs will also be in attendance for the weekend.

Organisers have also confirmed that the Munster senior football final between Kerry and Cork will be shown live on a big screen on the showgrounds, ensuring that visitors do not have to miss the match while attending the event.

With strong exhibitor interest and an extensive programme planned, large crowds are expected over the two days.

Entries for all classes are open via the Kingdom County Show website, with organisers encouraging early entry.

According to the organisers, the Kingdom County Show remains a key date in the agricultural and social calendar in Co. Kerry, offering a "unique opportunity to celebrate farming, competition and community in a family-friendly setting".