The Dorset County Show is a major annual event held near Dorchester, typically on the first weekend of September. It celebrates Dorset's agriculture, countryside, and rural life with competitive classes in cattle, dairy goats, sheep, alpacas, pigs, and cavies, along with various demonstrations and entertainment such as horse shows, dog shows, and craft displays
. The show takes place at the Dorchester Showground, located just outside Dorchester (postcode DT2 7SD), which is also used for other events throughout the year
. The event features attractions like the Atkinson Action Horses stunt show, forestry demonstrations by Dorset Axemen, tomahawk throwing, and a variety of horticultural competitions. Visitors can also enjoy educational and entertaining presentations about local breeds and rural skills
. In addition to the main County Show in September, there is a Dorset Spring Show held in early May at Birch Lane Showground, offering new attractions and celebrating Dorset's agricultural heritage
. Dorchester itself hosts various cultural events and exhibitions throughout the year, including museum exhibitions, artisan markets, live music, theatre, and talks related to local history and literary figures like Thomas Hardy
