Hague Agricultural Show set for February 2027 return after Melissa cancellation

The Hague Agricultural Show, Jamaica’s second-largest event of its kind, is scheduled to return on February 10, 2027, following the cancellation of its 2026 staging due to the devastation caused by Hurricane Melissa.

Tiffany Moorehouse, parish manager for the Jamaica Agricultural Society (JAS) in Trelawny, told The Gleaner that the 69th renewal of the show would be held as organisers work to repair damage to the grounds and prepare for the event.

“Hurricane Melissa had a devastating effect on the grounds and the production of our farmers. We were forced to cancel the 2026 renewal,” Moorehouse said.

She noted that farmers have rebounded sufficiently to have produce available for the show, but repairs remained a key challenge.

“The challenge facing us is repairs to the roof of the pavilion, the bathrooms, and the perimeter fencing. Contacts have been made to our sponsors and we are on our way,” she said.

The announcement has been welcomed by horticulturalist Clifton Davy, who said the annual event provided opportunities to generate business and connect with prospective clients.

“I look forward to the Show each year. I make sales and meet prospective clients for rentals to decorate offices,” Davy said.

In January 2026, the organisers and the JAS announced the cancellation of the event to redirect funds and resources towards helping farmers in western Jamaica recover from Hurricane Melissa.

JAS President Deron Grant said at the time that the money required to stage the show would be more beneficial if used directly to support farmers, many of whom were unable to produce or source goods for display and sale.

The Hague Agricultural Show is the premier agricultural event in Trelawny and is traditionally held on Ash Wednesday. It showcases the region’s farm produce and livestock alongside cultural displays.

The event also features plants, flowers and agricultural innovations, while providing a platform for major announcements from the Ministry of Agriculture.

The 2026 cancellation was the second time in six years that the show was called off. It was also cancelled in 2020 because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

- Leon Jackson

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