PSNI issues traffic and safety advice ahead of Balmoral Show return

Chief Superintendent Kelly Moore and Rhonda Geary, Royal Ulster Agricultural Society.

Thousands of visitors are expected to descend on the Eikon Exhibition Centre this week as the Balmoral Show returns for four days of farming, food, business and family entertainment — with the PSNI warning motorists to expect delays and plan ahead.

Running from Wednesday 13 May to Saturday 16 May 2026, the annual event is one of the biggest fixtures in Northern Ireland’s rural calendar, drawing huge crowds from across the province including many families, farmers and businesses from the Ballymena area.

With traffic volumes expected to surge around Lisburn and the wider road network leading to the venue, police say officers will be deployed to help manage congestion and keep visitors safe throughout the show.

PSNI warns visitors to allow extra travel time

Chief Superintendent Kelly Moore said ensuring the safety of visitors attending the Balmoral Show is a major priority for the Police Service of Northern Ireland.

She said:

“We will be assisting with traffic flow to and from the Eikon to ensure it is as hassle-free as possible, however with very large numbers expected over all four days, those travelling should anticipate that their journey may take longer than usual and leave some extra time to allow for likely delays.

“We’d ask that you help us by being patient, and by driving and parking responsibly. Give due consideration to other road users and pedestrians, and follow the guidance of our officers and parking marshals on the ground, and only park in the designated parking areas.”

The advice is particularly relevant for visitors travelling from Mid and East Antrim, where the Balmoral Show remains a major annual attraction for farming families, agricultural suppliers and rural businesses.

Roads surrounding the Eikon Exhibition Centre traditionally experience heavy congestion during peak morning arrival times and late afternoon departures, particularly on the opening days of the show.

Police presence to focus on rural safety and community engagement

Alongside traffic management operations, PSNI representatives will also have a major presence inside the Supporting Safer Communities marquee during the event.

Visitors will be able to speak directly with:

• Crime Prevention Officers

• Neighbourhood Policing Teams

• The Roads Education Unit

• PSNI recruitment and HR specialists

Police say the marquee will offer advice and support focused on issues affecting rural and farming communities, including crime prevention, road safety and community policing initiatives.

Those considering a future career in policing will also be able to speak with recruitment specialists to learn more about opportunities within the PSNI.

Chief Superintendent Moore added that the Balmoral Show remains an important opportunity for officers to engage directly with rural communities across Northern Ireland.

“We want everyone attending this year’s show to enjoy a safe and memorable experience. Come along to the Supporting Safer Communities marquee and talk to us to hear more about the work we do to tackle issues which directly impact upon our rural communities – and you may even meet some of our amazing Police Dogs and their handlers!”

Drone warning issued to visitors and vendors

Police have also reminded attendees and traders that drones are strictly prohibited on site during the event.

The warning applies to both visitors and vendors attending the show, with organisers enforcing restrictions throughout the four-day event.

The Balmoral Show is expected to attract tens of thousands of people once again this year, bringing significant economic activity to the wider agri-food and rural sectors while also creating increased pressure on surrounding transport routes.

Motorists travelling to the event are being urged to follow police guidance, use designated parking facilities only and allow additional time for journeys throughout the week.

Further rural crime prevention advice is available from the PSNI at www.psni.police.uk/ruralcrime.