Despite a rainy second day, thousands of visitors were treated to a unique and enjoyable experience at the show, which celebrated the arrival of spring. It featured live and interactive entertainment, hundreds of shopping stalls, a food hall, and artisan treats from independent producers. The rainy Sunday didn’t stop the show from going ahead, and the public didn’t let the British weather get in the way of a fun family day out.

Younger visitors participated in hands-on activities such as milking Buttercup, the life-sized dairy cow, in the Countryside Hub. They also met and learnt about different animals, including sheep, pigs, pygmy goats, rabbits, and reptiles. Thanks to the lifting of housing restrictions for Avian Flu, they could also enjoy seeing eggs hatching, chicks, geese and chickens, albeit still under some restrictions. Additionally, they engaged in seed planting, chocolate and circus skills workshops, wand making, and enjoyed the thrill of the funfair, segway course, and a mobile caving experience.

The weekend event was packed with exciting competitions and activities for everyone, including canine family members. Highlights included the Alpaca Show, Sheep Show, flyball, Morris dancing, gymnastics ‘have a go‘, a fun dog show, Gardeners‘ ‘Ask the Expert‘, archery, and axe throwing.

New for the 2023 show was Lawn Mower racing – a popular sport created in West Sussex and celebrating its 50th anniversary this year. There was also a new floral workshop where visitors had the opportunity to create a Coronation Tea Cup display filled with red, white, and blue blooms in celebration of King Charles’ upcoming coronation.

“Spring Live! 2023 has been an exciting and unforgettable event. A big thank you to all participants, visitors, and exhibitors who made the weekend a resounding success,” said Corrie Ince, Show Director at the South of England Agricultural Society.

She added:

“We were thrilled to see everyone come together to enjoy some fantastic outdoor fun. Our shows are not just about entertainment but also about education and showcasing a countryside way of life to the visiting public.

“If you missed Spring Live! don’t worry! The South of England Show will return in June, our flagship and biggest event of the year. We advise booking online in advance to secure discounted tickets on a fantastic family day out.”

Tickets for the South of England Show – Friday 9th to Sunday 11th June – are available from www.seas.org.uk and cost £22.50 for adults and £20.70 for senior citizens/students (inclusive of a 10% advance discount until 1.06.23). Under 16s go free (suggested donation of £2 for children aged 5-15). Dogs are not recommended due to the number of people on-site, the restricted livestock areas, and the potential for hot weather.