Bloem Show’s stature is set to continue growing as a proudly South African economic catalyst in the Free State and the largest in the central region of southern Africa. This year’s instalment of the diverse consumer event will be held from 25 April to 4 May in Bloemfontein.
Elmarie Prinsloo, chief executive officer (CEO) of Bloem Show, said patrons could look forward to a real treat, as well as strengthening business ties.
“Visitors can get ready for ten days with ample activities, a variety of exhibitions, a record agricultural programme, great entertainment, an exciting fun fair and a memorable time together with friends and family,” said Prinsloo.
“Ticket sales for this year’s show are open, with huge savings on pre-ticket sales. Several special offers apply. Visitors who buy tickets until 24 April at 17:00, qualify for special discount.”
Innovation has seen the provision of season tickets, which offer unlimited entry for the duration of the show. Tickets are R500 for adults and R250 for children six to 17 years of age – plus, four free fun fair tokens are also included in this offer. Applications are only valid until 15 April. Access is allowed through facial recognition. Application can be made via info@bloemshow.co.za or show the office on the showgrounds in Curie Avenue, Bloemfontein.
The normal admission fees are: R100 for adults, R50 for senior citizens (60 years and over), students (with student card) and children older than six years.
Prinsloo said there would be 350 exhibitions through which visitors will be able to see various exhibitor specials by scanning the special Bloem Show or code.
Planning has been designed to raise the bar and surpass records of the 2023 event, which grew significantly with the influx of patrons: the number of visitors and exhibitors surpassed that of 2022 and even 2018.
Prinsloo said this year the agricultural section was record breaking.
“The agricultural section will be hosting a record number of livestock with 5 800 animals, that includes horses, sheep and cattle, 800 more than in 2023. Agricultural activities will include 21 championships, of which 14 are national. There will be two national cattle competitions (bull growth test class and interbreed competition), an auctioneer competition, sheep shearing demonstrations and three auctions,” she said.
Prinsloo announced that improvements would see the largest creative handwork and arts section with approximately 2 000 entries. This includes: knitting, baking, quilting, hobbies, sugar craft, embroidery, photography, schools and special schools’ section and art.
Last year there were 312 exhibitors and 62 food stalls, as well as 2 067 submissions for the creative crafts and arts department.
Overall, the attendance of patrons last year amounted to approximately 93 722 people – attending the show over the course of ten days.
In terms of attendance of people under challenging socio-economic times, the show reportedly saw a 14,6% increase in attendance versus the post-Covid show of 2022 (13 742 more visitors), and 1,7% more than in 2018 (1 819 more visitors).
The majority were reportedly South Africans who included exhibitors.
