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The Royal Ulster Agricultural Society

The Society's primary charitable aim is to promote agriculture in Northern Ireland by holding agricultural Shows. 

This objective has evolved over time and the RUAS now hosts three annual Shows encompassing everything from livestock and machinery to handmade crafts and the finest local food. 

The RUAS Celebrating 170 Years

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Members are the backbone of the Society

Not only do membership subscriptions provide essential income for the Society but the contribution provided by its members is vital to the present and future of everything the Society achieves.

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Upcoming Events

25
Nov
8th Royal Ulster Premier Beef Lamb Championships

25 November 2025

Eikon Exhibition Centre

11
Dec
39th Royal Ulster Winter Fair

11 December 2025

Eikon Exhibition Centre

Latest News

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25 June 2025

Staff Spotlight

This week we caught up with the Society’s new Procurement Officer, Sharon Harradine, to find out how she’s settling into the team.  

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20 June 2025

CARAS Reception

On the first day of the 156th Balmoral Show, 15 recipients were awarded with either Associateship or Fellowship member status by the Council for Awards of Royal Agricultural Societies including three Society members* and one member of Council †.

Congratulations to everyone.  

Best in Show for Balmoral Exhibitors

17 June 2025

Best in Show for Balmoral Exhibitors

The 2025 Balmoral Show welcomed tens of thousands of visitors to the Eikon Exhibition Centre from Wednesday 14th to Saturday 17th May for four unforgettable days of sunshine, smiles and endless showing classes. 

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09 May 2025

2025 Membership Prize Draw

Each year at the Balmoral Show the Society organise an exclusive competition for RUAS members enabling them to win some fabulous prizes.

Our History

The Royal Ulster Agricultural Society (RUAS) was first known as the North East Agricultural Association of Ireland. Formed in 1854 following the Great Famine and a desire to improve agriculture, the Society was originally to embrace the counties of Down, Antrim, Armagh and Monaghan.

It was hoped that by holding agricultural Shows and giving agricultural instruction to local producers, more efficient practices could be adopted.

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The Society's Work

The 156th Balmoral Show will take place from Wednesday 14th May to Saturday 17th May 2025 at the Eikon Exhibition Centre, Lisburn.

The eight Royal Ulster Premier Beef & Lamb Championships will take place on Tuesday 25th November 2025 at the Eikon Exhibition Centre, Lisburn.

The 39th Royal Ulster Winter Fair, in association with sole sponsor Danske Bank, will take place on Thursday 11th December 2025 at the Eikon Exhibition Centre, Lisburn.

The Eikon Exhibition Centre is Northern Ireland’s largest events campus.

Owned by the RUAS, this centre is conveniently located beside the main arterial routes to Belfast and Dublin and has a diverse range of facilities on offer.

Connect With us

For the latest updates on the Royal Ulster Agricultural Society and our events you can check on our latest news as well as following us on Social Media.

Social Media

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