Equine show may be saved, as Royal Welsh Spring Festival is axed

A top event in the spring show calendar in Wales has been axed - but the equine section may get an event of its own.

The Royal Welsh Spring Festival has been axed. PHOTO: RWAS

The Royal Welsh Spring Festival - previously the Smallholding & Countryside Festival until a rebrand in 2025 - has been held at the showground in Builth Wells every May for 24 years.

But this year’s show was the last, the board of the Royal Welsh Agricultural Society confirmed yesterday (Friday).

The move comes following a “strategic review of activities” by the society, and they say it will allow the RWAS to “focus on its flagship event, the Royal Welsh Show, alongside the Winter Fair, whilst also enabling several key strategic projects to progress”.

However, the RWAS said it will also explore opportunities for valued parts of the Spring Festival, such as the equine and dog shows, to continue independently.

“We are incredibly proud of the good work that has been done in staging the Spring Festival over the years,” said Aled Rhys Jones, RWAS chief executive, who praised the dedication and passion of the committee and support of staff, volunteers, exhibitors, traders and sponsors.

“While we understand this news may be disappointing for many, we want to express our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who has contributed to the Spring Festival since the society took it over from the Smallholder Magazine in 2001.”