Celebrated as the day country meets town, the 2026 Southland A & P Show is ready to again showcase and safeguard traditions for generations to come.

The Southland A & P Association has been hard at work in recent months organising this year’s show, taking place this Saturday 7 March at Donovan Park.

Association president Paula Bell says excitement is building for what promises to be another standout event on the southern calendar.

“We’re incredibly proud of how the Show continues to evolve while staying true to its roots. In 2026, we’re again focused on celebrating the traditions that have shaped our rural communities and ensuring they’re carried forward for generations to come,” she says.

This year’s theme is again, Preserving Traditions for Future Generations, reflecting the rich heritage embedded in families with the Southland A & P Show from across the region, many of whom travel to Donovan Park year after year to be part of the Southland Show experience.

“There’s something special about seeing multiple generations enjoying the same event - grandparents who once competed now watching their grandchildren take part. That’s what makes the Southland A & P Show so unique,” Paula says. There will once again be something for everyone, with the return of crowd favourites and exciting attractions across the grounds.

“We’ve worked hard over the past year to deliver a full and vibrant programme. From livestock competitions, an extensive home industries schedule and equestrian events through to live entertainment and family activities, the 2026 show truly offers something for all ages,” she says.

The ever-popular Friday Night Market returns from 5.30pm on Friday 6 March, featuring food vendors, local crafters and live music to kick off the show weekend in style.

On Saturday 7 March, Donovan Park on Bainfield Road will transform for the 156th Southland A & P Show. “There’s nothing better than seeing the park buzzing with people as we bring country to town for the day. The atmosphere is always fantastic, and we’re looking forward to building on the success of previous years,” Paula says.

Entertainers 3 Ring Riot Circus and The Company Band will star in 2026 and are set to impress audiences once again with their high-energy performances. “We’re also excited to welcome True In Nature, who will be running bush craft workshops for children throughout the day - a wonderful hands-on way for young people to connect with the outdoors.”

Woodchopping will again feature strongly in 2026, including an exciting NZ vs Australia Veterans Test, alongside the ever-popular XO Carnival with a wide range of children’s entertainment. Pony rides will be available throughout the day, as well as tractor rides thanks to Southland Farm Machinery with gold coin proceeds going to this year’s chosen charity, Hospice Southland.

Southern talent will shine in the Kiwiskips Food Court, with The Company Band playing throughout the day, while entertainers take to the stage in the Quantum Landscaping Arena to wow the crowds.

Back in 2026 is Percy’s Straw Dig, supported by Wilson’s Contracting, where children can hunt for fantastic prizes hidden in the haystack following the grand parade.

Visitors can also explore the PowerNet Crafters Market and enjoy animals galore in the ever-popular Petville petting zoo. No A & P Show would be complete without the traditional attractions.

The equestrian section, along with sheep, cattle and donkey competitions, continues to draw strong entries, rounding out a full and diverse programme.

“The Southland A & P Show continues to grow year on year, and we’re proud to celebrate and showcase our rural way of life here in the deep south,” Paula says.

“We can’t wait to welcome the community back for another memorable event in 2026.” Gates open on show day, Saturday 7 March, at 9am. Tickets are $15 for adults, and children under 16 are free.