Barring a few years during the great wars, the Rand Easter Show has opened annually in March since first being established in 1895. The show was originally an agricultural event but gradually developed into a major consumer show that includes a funfair, exhibition halls and live entertainment. In past years the circus participated and show jumping events took place. Billed as ‘Jo’burg’s biggest day out’ one can hardly disagree, the Rand Easter Show is essentially a multitude of expos rolled into one and spread over a 10 day period. The venue is the Nasrec expo centre south of Johannesburg where there is ample parking and reached via an excellent road and bus network.
Exhibitors from all industries showcase their products during the show that range from lifestyle products to household goods. The crowning of Mr and Miss Rand Show has been a long-standing contest while similar events such as Extreme Bodies and the South African Strongman heats are now part of the programme. Street racing, military exercises, dog shows and indoor fashion shows are just some of the other interesting happenings at the show, and there are a host of eateries to feed the masses.
Parents can attend the various gardening workshops on offer while teenagers release some energy at the vast funfair or on the trampolines and for the young ones, the animal farm and theatrical shows are always a delight.
Cooking, health and beauty, baking, and coffee demonstrations take place at regular intervals, as do craft design demos of mosaicking and pottery painting. Speed lovers will enjoy the motorcars and boating vessels showcased and the Science and Tech Hall is bound to intrigue and fascinate all ages.
The diversity of entertainment on offer is likely to appeal to all visitors, the Rand Easter Show is undoubtedly the biggest day out for Johannesburg residents.
