THE Balmoral Show, the north's biggest agricultural event, is back and set to be the biggest yet with a range of activities for the whole family to enjoy.
The annual show, now in its 148th year, takes place at Balmoral Park, Lisburn, from Wednesday May 11 to Friday May 13.
Have's our quick guide to help you plan a hassle-free trip and make the most of everything on offer.
:: When is it?
The Balmoral Show takes place from Wednesday May 11 to Friday May 13. The event runs from 9.30am - 8.30pm on Wednesday and Thursday, and 9.30am - 8pm on Friday.
:: Where is it?
The show takes place at Balmoral Park, Lisburn.
:: How do I get there?
Public transport: A complimentary shuttle service to Balmoral Park will operate from Lisburn Train station between 8.30am and 9pm to the new showgrounds. Translink is advising visitors to plan their journeys in advance and leave extra time to make onward train connections.
Driving: Those travelling from the west and north-west should take the M1 to junction 8 and follow the signs to Balmoral Park. From Lisburn, take the Moira Road out of the city and follow directional signage. Drivers come from Belfast and the north-east should travel south on the M1, coming off at Sprucefield and follow the signs to Balmoral Park. And those travelling from the south should use the A1 dual carriageway and follow the signs.
:: How can I get tickets?
A range of tickets are available on the Balmoral Show website including discounts for children and senior citizens.
Also available are pre-show group bookings that give one free ticket for every 20 purchased.
Or alternatively, you can pay at the door on the day. Adults (over 18) are priced at £18; youths (12-18 years) £12; seniors (over 65) £14; and children (5-11 years) £3. Children under five years of age are free.
Discounted tickets are also available after 4pm.
:: What should I look out for at this year's show?
Here are just some of the attractions to look out for at the Balmoral Show this year.
Main arena:
Bolddog Lings, Honda's official stunt team and the number one freestyle motocross team in Britain and Northern Ireland, returns this year to wow crowds each day with their amazing stunts.
Other attractions include Innova Dance Company and the Ballylone Concert Flute Band.
Spar arena:
The Spar Arena is dedicated to family-fun entertainment including circus workshops.
Livestock:
More than 3,500 animals have been entered into the show to compete for prized red rosettes and prestigious Balmoral titles.
Children's farm:
An abundance of cute, cuddly baby farm animals that youngsters are given the opportunity to hold, stroke and feed.
There is also the opportunity to get up close and personal with other animals from around the world such as snakes and tarantulas.
Sheep shearing:
Various shearing competitions will take place over the three days in the shearing pavilion.
Each day of the show also has a packed programme of events. Have a look at the full timetable for details.
For more information on this year's show visit the Balmoral Show website.
