This prestigious event, organised by the Royal Ulster Agricultural Society and proudly sponsored by Danske Bank, is preparing to celebrate its 40th anniversary on Thursday 10th December 2026 at the Eikon Exhibition Centre.
Visitors of all ages can browse over 200 industry leading trade stands, watch all the action from the showing ring and network with some of the finest dairy producers from across the province. For dairy enthusiasts it has always been a seasonal and social event not to be missed.
The Royal Ulster Winter Fair will be open from 9:00am to 5:30pm.
Tickets can be purchased at the gate upon arrival.
Adults: £14
Seniors (65 years old and above): £12
Youth (12-17 years old): £10
Under 12's: FREE (when accompanied by an adult)
RUAS Members: FREE when their valid membership card is scanned
The 40th Royal Ulster Winter Fair will host two indoor halls filled to the brim with the latest innovations and bespoke agri services, designed to support efficiency and practicality on the farm.
The renowned green sawdust in the ring will set the scene for the crowning of new Ayrshire, Jersey, Holstein and Dairy Shorthorn champions as well as the prestigious 2026 Supreme Interbreed Champion.
Parking at the Eikon Exhibition Centre is free and further details on accessibility support, catering and opening hours can be found in our FAQs.
Every great tradition has a beginning, and the Royal Ulster Winter Fair is no exception.
Its roots can be traced back to December 1984, when the Northern Ireland British Friesian Breeders’ Club celebrated its 75th anniversary with a show at the King’s Hall in Belfast. What began as a celebration of the Club’s proud history, its members and their shared passion for the British Friesian breed, would mark the beginning of a new chapter for the Society and the wider dairy industry.
Recognising the appetite for an event that could bring the wider dairy industry together, the Society saw an opportunity to build on the success of that original gathering and create a platform for breeders, farmers and industry leaders to come together, share knowledge and celebrate the very best of dairy breeding and innovation.
With this vision in mind, a dedicated sub-committee was formed and plans began to take shape, with the valued support of proud sponsors, Northern Bank Limited (now Danske Bank).
On Thursday 11 December 1986, that vision became a reality as the very first Royal Ulster Winter Fair, in association with sole sponsor Northern Bank, opened its doors at the King's Hall in Belfast.
Since then, the event has grown considerably, moving to a larger venue and welcoming new classes and championship competitions along the way.
Yet, throughout its evolution, one thing has remained constant: the dedication of its exhibitors and the outstanding quality of dairy cattle showcased from across Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland.
As we celebrate this December, we also extend our sincere thanks to our sponsors Danske Bank, whose valued support over four decades has played an important part in helping the Royal Ulster Winter Fair grow and flourish into the much-loved event it is today.
Below are some of the latest images from the Royal Ulster Winter Fair. To view all the photos visit our gallery.
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