Newcastle Show Returns with Fresh Frights and Delights for 2026 Edition
Preparations are in full swing as the iconic Newcastle Show gears up for its highly anticipated return to the Newcastle Showground this weekend. The three-day event, running from Friday, February 27, to Sunday, March 1, promises a packed schedule with exciting new attractions alongside beloved traditional activities.
Marketing manager Annika Osborne confirmed that the show team has been working tirelessly to ensure everything is ready for what she describes as a full-on three days. Preparations are full steam ahead out there, we are hanging up signs, all the rides are getting set up, all the displays, Ms Osborne said, emphasizing that there is literally not an inch of space left for additional attractions.
Exciting New Additions to the 2026 Lineup
This year marks the introduction of several major new highlights to the show, which has been operating for over 120 years. Macka's Bucking Bulls Rodeo will take center stage on Friday with two sessions at 4pm and 7pm, featuring top riders and young bulls in an exhilarating arena showdown. Ms Osborne explained that the rodeo has proven extremely popular at other agricultural shows and represents a fresh addition to Newcastle's program.
Another significant new feature is Newy-Con, an immersive pop culture experience at the Newcastle Exhibition Center dedicated to superheroes, fantasy, and sci-fi. The convention will include cosplay competitions, live panels with creators and artists, fan community gatherings, and numerous pop culture stalls and displays. Last year we had some cosplay and people dressed up and there was just a lot of momentum online for it, Ms Osborne noted regarding the inspiration behind this addition.
Spooky Thrills and Traditional Favorites
For those seeking adrenaline-pumping experiences, the show welcomes the Ghost Train for the first time in Newcastle. Created by Leyton Osborne and his partner Elle Belle, this spooky ride debuted at the Royal Canberra Show just last week and promises plenty of frights throughout its journey. There's always a little scare actor hiding around the corner, ready to get you, so hopefully you bring a spare pair of underwear, Mr Osborne quipped about the attraction's scare factor.
Traditional show favorites return as well, including reptile shows, the farmyard nursery, woodchopping competitions, horticulture displays, and honey competitions. The equestrian arena will feature horse events like show jumping and tent pegging, while dog shows will run throughout the weekend with special themed nights including staffy night on Friday and a dachshund festival on Sunday.
Live Music and Attendance Expectations
Entertainment continues on the Tantos Stage with live music performances including Starstruck, the Katie Jayne Band on Friday, and Jarred Taylor with the Luke Combs Experience on Saturday. Following last year's attendance of approximately 43,000 visitors across the weekend, organizers are optimistic about increased numbers this year thanks to the new attractions. With some of the new items, we're hoping for a good bump in attendance, Ms Osborne stated.
Tickets are priced at $30 for adults, $20 for children aged five to seventeen, and $85 for a family pass covering two adults and two children. The Newcastle Show continues its long tradition of bringing community entertainment and agricultural displays to the region with an expanded program designed to appeal to diverse interests.
