Busy summer calendar ahead for county and agriculture shows
THEY are as much a part of the summer scene in Wales as a trip to the seaside.
Yes, agricultural and country shows, and food festivals make their mark in what is always a busy calendar.
Months of planning behind the scenes, some of which takes place in the dark winter months, reaches fruition for all to enjoy.
And enjoy them people do – in their masses.
Rural settings and special venues put out the welcome mat in a glorious celebration of what the organisers, exhibitors and competitors do best.
Visitors are witnessing performers at the top of their game in what are eagerly-anticipated annual events, attended by hundreds of thousands of people.
Perhaps the Royal Welsh Show steals many of the headlines, its status as one of the premier agricultural shows in the UK not in doubt, and important enough to attract royalty and politicians keen to get their messages across on a not-tobe-missed platform.
There is, of course, so much more going on all around Wales between May and September. You will find a one-day show offering a community showcase, and then there are the larger two or three-day affairs.
And where do you start when it comes to activities?
There are dog and horse shows and livestock competitions, all keenly contested. You may come across falconry demonstrations or motorcycle stunt teams going through their exhilarating paces.
Then there are the craft stalls to dip into, with high quality exhibits on display.
And there is food. There is always food. How about the best of Welsh produce? Chutneys, jams and a whole lot more give your chosen event a distinctive flavour of its own. Cookery demonstrations may even inspire you to head to your kitchen.
The weather can never be guaranteed, but what can be is the range of quality activities and attractions on offer. And there is no reason to suggest that 2018 will be any different.