A discount ticket blitz, a new teen pass and a bigger line-up of freebies will headline this year’s Melbourne Royal Show, as organisers aim to win over families hit by the cost of living crunch.
The annual beloved Victorian institution returns to the Showgrounds from 24 September, with Melbourne Royal promising more value for visitors through cheaper entry deals, expanded free entertainment and thousands of animals.
“This year we’ve focused on giving visitors even more to experience from the moment the gates open until after dark, with more included entertainment, new experiences, incredible food and even more opportunities to get close to animals and agriculture – all included with Show entry,” Melbourne Royal Show General Manager Hannah Von Bibra said.
“With 11 incredible days of animals, entertainment, food, rides, showbags, competition and fireworks ahead of us, we can’t wait to welcome Victorians back to Melbourne Showgrounds”
Among the new and expanded attractions are a bigger Animal Nursery, PAW Patrol Playland, Chainsaw Masters Live Wood Carving, Farmer Dave’s Super Stunt Dogs, Livestock Lane and The Great Muster.
2026 Melbourne Royal Show Ticket Prices
Standard price — Presale pricing (save up to 30%)
Adult $52.00 — $36.40
Concession $37.50 — $26
Child $27.00 — $19
Family $105.00 — $89
Night-time entertainment will include a Blaze FMX Showdown, The Drover’s Tale and fireworks.
Melbourne Royal will take over the CBD on Sunday to launch the show, giving families a chance to score discount tickets and get a taste of what is on offer, with a free kids ride, prizes and appearances from alpaca Hephner and Lord Mayor Nicholas Reece.
Buyers on Sunday can score a 30 per cent off Show tickets, with further early bird deals running until September 22.
A new ‘Six-Seven teen ticket’ includes entry after 2pm and a $50 ride pass for $67, while twilight entry starts from $18.
The 2026 Show will also mark the 70th anniversary of the Golden Axe, the top prize in woodchop, feature more than 5000 animals and over 70 food outlets, each offering at least one item under $10.
